A New Face at West Central Economic Development Alliance

Leadership is foundational to community empowerment, which is why West Central Economic Development Alliance is happy to welcome a new face and a new leader to the team. Alison Medeck took the lead as Executive Director of The Economic Alliance in April of 2026. As a uniquely qualified community leader, she has high hopes and solid strategies for Wadena County. 

A Strong Background in Economic and Community Development

Alison served as the Associate Director of the Brainerd Lakes Area Economic Development Corporation for 5 ½ years. Within this role, she led strategic initiatives focused on supporting businesses, outreach events, partnerships, grant administration, and a foot traffic analytics program that helped businesses better understand customer and visitor trends.

Prior to her time in the economic development sector, she spent 15 years in education and counseling. She found that this experience has positively influenced her approach to economic development work. Impactful economic development always starts with people: the business owners, entrepreneurs, job seekers, and employees in an area. Alison understands the importance of communicating and collaborating with different people to reach collective goals.

Alison shares, “My background in education and counseling taught me the importance of listening, problem-solving, and supporting individuals and organizations through change and growth. Across both fields, my focus has consistently been on helping people access resources, build capacity, and create pathways for long-term success.”

Setting Goals for the Future in Wadena County

Businesses and communities thrive when they have access to the resources, tools, and technical assistance they need. Alison is setting a primary goal of ensuring that businesses and community members have this access.

One such resource is the North Central Small Business Development Center (SBDC). This organization allows local entrepreneurs and business owners access to no-cost, confidential business consulting and targeted workshops.

In a broader sense, Alison shares that she wants to “continue building strong connections between businesses, communities, and regional partners so that support is coordinated, accessible, and responsive to local needs.”

Identifying Strengths and Advantages in Wadena County

Alison Medeck believes that the future of Wadena County is bright because of the strengths and advantages that already exist in the area. In her role as Executive Director, she hopes to build upon these for even greater success.

Alison states, “Wadena County has so many key advantages that support long-term economic growth, including strong local leadership and committed business owners who are actively engaged in shaping the future of their communities.”

A second advantage is the rural quality of life that Wadena County offers. The rural quality of life provides both space and accessibility, which is important for residents and businesses when evaluating location decisions.

Ms. Medeck also cites the strong network of manufacturers as a third advantage in the area. She states, “These businesses represent the innovation, entrepreneurship, and work ethic that define our communities.”

Additionally, Wadena County is fortunate to have two post-secondary educational institutions in the region: Central Lakes College and Minnesota State Community and Technical College. Alison is looking forward to forging new connections and partnerships with these institutions as they are a tremendous asset in building talent pipelines, providing customized training opportunities, and ensuring that residents and employers have access to education and skill-building.

New Projects on the Horizon 

A wrap-around approach to economic development is foundational in Ms. Medeck’s approach to her new position. This means addressing all factors affecting business owners and residents in the area. These factors include: housing, workforce development, business support, and childcare. These four interconnected areas are essential to long-term economic vitality. Alison shares her approach to new goals within these four areas: “In my first 60 days, housing consistently emerged as one of the most pressing needs across Wadena County communities. Strengthening awareness and coordination around housing needs and resources will be a key part of my work. In addition to housing, I will continue to work closely with businesses to ensure they are connected to technical assistance and resources that support both growth and sustainability.”

Coming this fall, The Economic Alliance, which functions as a satellite site for the North Central Small Business Development Center, will be providing the following opportunities for small business owners:

• Marketing Mondays- In-person or virtual meetings where local business owners can learn about marketing-related topics.
• Start Up North Accelerated- An 8-week virtual cohort for those who are ready to take action on their business ideas.

Currently, The Economic Alliance also offers no-cost business consulting for anyone looking to start a business or currently in any stage of their business.

New Leadership, Same Commitment to Wadena County 

Although Alison Medeck will be a new face at West Central Economic Alliance, the organization continues operating with the same commitment to Wadena County: to make our communities the best place to do business.

You can learn more about The Economic Alliance programs and initiatives by following the link here.