At the core of New North’s success is a steadfast belief in the power of collaboration — a value that has guided us since day one. Over the past six years, we have worked intentionally to develop and strengthen our alliances. One such alliance, deeply connected to many of the projects highlighted in this InDevelopment publication, is the New North Economic Development Council.
This council was established to advance our shared vision for local and regional prosperity. It brings together local units of government, chambers of commerce and economic development organizations from across our 18-county region. As I often say, “We cannot have a strong region without strong local partners.”
We are fortunate to have deeply engaged local economic development professionals who work in their localities every day to foster business growth and community success. These leaders play a vital role in New North’s mission to serve as a catalyst for regional prosperity through collaborative action. They help shape our strategic direction, contribute ideas for training and marketing campaigns, guide speaker topics for our “New North Partner Huddles” and actively participate in building a connected, knowledgeable economic development network.
Through shared projects and initiatives, we are leveraging our collective strengths to meet common goals. This collaboration has led to clearer alignment of roles and responsibilities, peer-to-peer learning, mentoring opportunities for those new to the profession, and stronger business and talent attraction strategies. Joint marketing efforts and shared resources continue to enhance the value we deliver to businesses and communities throughout Northeast Wisconsin.
To further support this work, we offer a dedicated section on our website: thenewnorth.com/new-north-economic-development-council.
Here you will find tools for economic development professionals, including RFP and site visit templates, data dashboards, best practices, economic reports, surveys and upcoming events.
I recently read “The Power of Moments” by Chip and Dan Heath, a book that explores why certain experiences leave extraordinary impacts and lasting impressions. Every day, the New North team, alongside our local economic development professionals, work to create these kinds of meaningful moments through authentic relationships, insight and purposeful action.
And as we look ahead to another Green Bay Packers season, I’m reminded of the timeless wisdom of Coach Vince Lombardi, “The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined effort of each individual.” That spirit of unity and shared purpose is what continues to drive New North — and our region — forward.
— Barb LaMue
Barb is the president and CEO of New North and will be retiring this fall, leaving the organization in very capable hands.
CONTACT
New North, Inc.
920-336-3860 • thenewnorth.com
InDevelopment Conference 2025
Thrivent, Appleton • Tuesday, Sept. 16 • 2–6 p.m.
For event agenda and details on presenters, read the 2025 InDevelopment Report
