Dunn Economic Development seeks Federal HUBZone designation to boost local small businesses and drive economic growth

Dunn Economic Development today announced its central role in a statewide initiative to secure a federal Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone)  designation for Dunn County. As part of a formal petition submitted by Governor Tony Evers to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), this designation would unlock critical resources for local small businesses, helping them compete for federal contracts and bringing significant investment into the community. 

The SBA’s HUBZone program is designed to fuel small business growth in historically underutilized business zones by providing preferential access to federal contracting opportunities. For Dunn County, this designation would be a powerful tool to stimulate job creation, drive economic diversification, and support the long-term stability of the local business community. 

“Our small businesses are the heart of our communities and our local and state economies,”  said Gov. Evers in the statewide announcement. “This HUBZone designation will help level  the playing field for small businesses and working families in rural Wisconsin and bring much needed investments to areas that have long been underserved.” 

While Dunn County is home to the innovative powerhouse of the University of Wisconsin-Stout, many rural areas of the county continue to face economic challenges and income disparities. The HUBZone designation would directly address these issues by creating new avenues for revenue and growth. 

Adam Accola / file photo

Securing HUBZone status for Dunn County is a game-changer for our local economy,” said Adam Accola, Director of Dunn Economic Development. “This isn’t just about federal contracts; it’s about creating higher-wage jobs, empowering our local entrepreneurs, and building a more resilient and prosperous future. It provides a tangible advantage to the small and medium-sized businesses that form our economic backbone, allowing them to invest,  expand, and thrive right here at home.”

The petition has garnered broad support from a coalition of local governments, educational institutions, and economic development organizations across the state. Partners like the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) and Wisconsin’s Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC) are prepared to provide technical assistance to help local businesses navigate the HUBZone certification process once the designation is approved. 

“This is about building long-term, inclusive economic resilience,” said WEDC Secretary and  CEO Missy Hughes. “With the HUBZone designation, we can unlock new opportunities for  entrepreneurs and small businesses across rural Wisconsin.” 

If approved by the SBA, the designation would remain in effect through at least July 2028,  providing a critical window for Dunn County businesses to compete in the federal marketplace and strengthen the entire regional economy. 

About Dunn Economic Development: 

Dunn Economic Development is a collaborative, public-private partnership dedicated to fostering a vibrant and resilient economy in Dunn County, Wisconsin. By aligning the resources of the City of Menomonie, Dunn County, UW-Stout, and local development corporations, we serve as a one-stop connection for business retention, expansion, and attraction. 

Contributed.