Frequently Asked Questions: How the Economic Alliance Supports Wadena County

What is The Economic Alliance?

The West Central Economic Development Alliance (WCEDA) is a nonprofit economic development organization serving in Wadena County. Since 2011, the Economic Alliance has strengthened the local economy by connecting businesses, entrepreneurs, communities, and organizations with resources, relationships, and opportunities. As an independent nonprofit, we collaborate with local governments, businesses, educational institutions, and regional and state partners to advance economic opportunity and quality of life.

What does The Economic Alliance do?

The Economic Alliance brings people and resources together to address priorities that support a strong local economy. Our work includes business retention and expansion, entrepreneurship, workforce development, talent attraction, housing, childcare, community development, advocacy, education, and networking. We also connect businesses and communities with local, regional, and state resources.

Who does The Economic Alliance work with?

We work with businesses, entrepreneurs, developers, investors, local governments, nonprofits, community organizations, and residents throughout Wadena County. Whether you're starting a business, expanding a company, pursuing development, or addressing a community need, we can help connect you with the right resources.

How can The Economic Alliance help my business?

Businesses can access no-cost consulting and technical assistance, workforce and training resources, entrepreneurship support, financing connections, educational opportunities, and regional and state economic development programs. As a satellite site for the North Central Small Business Development Center (SBDC), we offer businesses confidential, no-cost professional consulting.

Can The Economic Alliance help me start a business?

Yes. Aspiring entrepreneurs can access confidential consulting, business planning assistance, educational programs, and other resources through our partnership with the North Central SBDC. Whether you're exploring an idea or preparing to launch, we'll help you identify resources for your next step.

Can The Economic Alliance help with business financing?

While The Economic Alliance does not directly provide loans or grants, we can connect businesses with information about revolving loan funds, state and regional financing programs, traditional financing options, and other funding resources that may be appropriate for their projects.

How does The Economic Alliance support Wadena County communities?

We collaborate with cities, townships, Wadena County, and regional partners on priorities including housing, workforce solutions, business attraction and expansion, community development, and economic development planning. Our role is to connect communities with the expertise, partnerships, and resources needed to move projects forward.

Our work extends across the county, including the communities of Wadena, Menahga, Sebeka, Verndale, Aldrich and Nimrod, as well as the townships, rural areas and smaller communities in between.  

Can The Economic Alliance assist developers and investors?

Yes. We serve as a connection point for developers, investors, site selectors, and businesses exploring Wadena County. We can provide connections to economic and demographic information, workforce resources, development programs, government and community leaders, and regional and state partners.

Why is Wadena County a great place to do business?

Wadena County combines a supportive business environment and entrepreneurial spirit with regional transportation access, workforce resources, and collaborative communities. Businesses enjoy the benefits of a rural setting while remaining connected to regional markets and opportunities. Rural by choice. Connected by opportunity.

Who does The Economic Alliance partner with?

Economic development is a team effort. Our partners include local governments, educational institutions, chambers of commerce, workforce organizations, utilities, businesses, nonprofits, state agencies, the North Central SBDC, Sourcewell, Region 5, Initiative Foundation, Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development,  and more.

What doesn't The Economic Alliance do?

The Economic Alliance does not issue permits, administer regulations, provide legal or financial advice, or directly award grants or loans. Instead, we serve as a connector and resource organization. If you're unsure where to start, start with us—we'll help identify the appropriate organization or resource.

How is The Economic Alliance funded?

The Economic Alliance is financially supported by businesses, communities, organizations, and partners who believe in our mission and are committed to strengthening Wadena County's economy. This support enables us to assist businesses, pursue community initiatives, and build partnerships that create long-term economic opportunity.  

How can I get involved?

Businesses, organizations, and community members can invest in our mission, participate in educational and networking events, partner on economic development initiatives, share resources, and connect us with new opportunities. Together, we can continue building a stronger future for Wadena County.

Why should I contact The Economic Alliance?

Whether you're starting or growing a business, want to support the economic development of Wadena County communities,  pursuing a development project, or addressing a community priority, The Economic Alliance can help you find the right connections and resources to move forward. Contact us today.