Envision Greater Fond du Lac, the combined Chamber of Commerce and Economic Development Organization, has the distinct pleasure of working with businesses throughout the county on expansion and redevelopment projects.
Hoya Hop House
Consumer demand for craft beer has seen a significant increase over the years, driven by various factors such as consumer preferences, market trends and industry dynamics. The five equity owners of Hoya Hop House in Waupun have been paying attention.
Hoya Hop House is a neighborhood craft brewery and tap room that will operate on Main Street in Waupun. This brewery looks to cater to the local market and serve as a destination for visitors. From distinctive flavor profiles in craft beers, sours and seltzers to individually kegged cocktails, Hoya Hop House can appeal to any palette.
The brewery will initially operate with a 12-tap brewing system, offering a wide array of modern drinks married with traditional brews. What goes well with a great brew? Food, of course! Hoya Hop House will partner with a local vendor to provide special food offerings, pizzas and charcuterie platters.
The brewery is looking to open to the public October 2024. Future plans include adding a canning line to expand retail distribution as well as a full-service kitchen to create a true brewpub setting.
Fond du Lac County Campus
In October 2023, the announcement was made to discontinue learning at the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Fond du Lac Campus. This decision provided Fond du Lac County with the opportunity to reimagine the space.
When the academic year officially closed June 30, 2024, Fond du Lac County made public their plan to enhance this current facility to include updates to fiber optics and Wi-Fi; updating utilities; updating exterior infrastructure; a public safety training facility; new equipment and furniture; maintenance equipment; event center renovations; and exterior and interior signage.
There is also going to be the consolidation of some county departments. Human services departments (DSS, ADRC, Senior Services and Economic Support), the Land and Water Conservation Department and the State of Wisconsin Workforce Development will move from their current stand-alone locations, which will be sold, to the former campus.
The event space (commons, food service, and Prairie Theater) will remain and be available for rent. Additionally, the gymnasium will be open for clubs, organizations and individuals to rent.
There is a dialogue of other entities and amenities being housed at this facility. These additional plans will be incorporated into the plan as it moves forward.
Continued Growth within Fond du Lac County
Within the last year, Fond du Lac County has seen several businesses — whether small businesses, restaurants or service groups — open within the geographical footprint.
Board & Brush opened a location in downtown Fond du Lac in June. This creative studio is a place where people of all ages can express their unique style through painting. Cowlicks Cones & Floats also opened in Fond du Lac. This business serves not only mouthwatering ice cream, but also healthy energy drinks and locally produced products. Beans & Bites in North Fond du Lac continues to grow; they added a food/coffee truck and are now partnering with Marian University on their on-campus coffee shop.
The new businesses were not only in the capital city. In Waupun, guests can find a delightful bookstore, Charming Reads, just off Main Street. In Eden, Grahl Grounds Hydro Excavating opened. Crimson Cactus Boutique opened in Friendship. Oakfield saw the opening of Pope Taxidermy. Campbellsport is now home to Rowe Cocktail Lounge & Event Space. Ripon has seen growth over the last year with Kensington Gardens duplex additions and LeRoy Meats, as well as the groundbreaking and construction of its first-ever Boys and Girls Club.
Momentum
Things are never slow in Fond du Lac County. So far in 2024, Envision has provided technical assistance to more than 120 entrepreneurs (and climbing) throughout the county. Economic development is a long game; there are currently several new and existing businesses throughout the county growing, expanding and developing new ideas.
Future
The future remains bright in Fond du Lac County. Envision Greater Fond du Lac has its sights on attracting, growing and retaining business and talent to the area. The goal is to position Fond du Lac County as a great place to live and play; once an individual or family sees all there is to offer, career opportunities are bountiful and available in nearly every employment level and industry.
InDevelopment Conference 2024
KI Convention Center, Green Bay • Tuesday, Sept. 17 • 2–7 p.m.Â
For event agenda and details on presenters, read the 2024 InDevelopment Report
