Envision Greater Fond du Lac announced its 2030 goals as part of the organization’s strategic plan.
Formed in 2017 through the unification of the former Fond du Lac Area Association of Commerce and the Fond du Lac County Economic Development Corporation, Envision Greater Fond du Lac brings together businesses, community leaders and stakeholders to advance the region’s economic vitality and quality of life. In March 2024, Rawley Point, a third-party economic advisor, reported that between 2017 to 2023 Envision was responsible for $282 million in direct, indirect and induced economic impact, while creating and supporting 2,800 jobs and growing $116.6 million in wages and benefits.
“We’re expanding upon our history of collaboration and economic accomplishments to set the course for the next chapter of our work,” said Sadie Howell, president and CEO, Envision Greater Fond du Lac. “Our 2030 goals focus on regional growth, a shared community identity, and securing partnerships to build the area for the next generation of business success. Our ultimate goal is that the greater Fond du Lac region is known as a place where entrepreneurs launch, talent thrives and business leads.”
Identified in the organization’s strategic plan, Envision’s 2030 goals focus on three priorities:
1. Unify stakeholders. Champion a shared vision for economic growth by aligning public and private partners, advocating for pro-growth policies, and advancing county-wide development initiatives.
2. Empower entrepreneurs and accelerate innovation. Fuel entrepreneurship and innovation by strengthening the startup ecosystem and expanding access to resources, mentorship, and capital opportunities that drive economic diversification.
3. Develop and retain a future-ready workforce. Grow and retain a skilled workforce that meets the evolving needs of employers, sustaining long-term economic relevancy and regional prosperity.
“Envision membership is more than just access to networking events or programs,” said Howell. “It’s an investment in the region’s success and the future of Fond du Lac County. Our five-year plan emphasizes the roles that talent attraction, small business growth and workforce development play in overall community vibrancy – from infrastructure needs like roads and parks to livability issues addressing housing, child care and transportation to building a community that promotes public safety and services.”
In the first step toward its 2030 goals, Envision is introducing a combined membership model that redefines the traditional chamber approach. At present, in a model based on pre-2017 practices, businesses pay membership dues and support economic development separately. The combined membership model features updated and expanded tiers that allow members to address their current business needs and build the region’s economic future.
“Beginning with 2026 renewals and new membership inquiries, Envision will offer updated membership levels that allow companies to select the services needed to build their business and define their community impact,” Joe Venhuizen, vice president of Membership and Resource Development said. “The new model redefines what it means to belong to Envision – the economic development work we do isn’t an add-on to chamber membership, it’s a foundational pillar of how Envision drives impact formembers, the community and the region.”
To learn more about Envision, its combined model of membership or upcoming events, visit envisiongreaterFDL.com/join.
