by GCDC | Jun 4, 2026 | News
The Green County Development Corporation (GCDC) has successfully completed a $60,000 grant awarded through the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), delivering both a comprehensive economic study and direct planning assistance to local dairy farms.
A Deeper Look at the Industry
In partnership with UW-Extension, GCDC commissioned the Green County Dairy Cluster Economic Analysis & Action Plan — a thorough examination of the dairy industry’s current state and long-term outlook in Green County. The study combined interviews with 13 stakeholders across the dairy cluster — including farmers, processors, bankers, and researchers — with robust quantitative data analysis.
The findings underscore just how vital dairy is to the local economy. Dairy farms and processing operations together support 3,448 jobs and generate over $2.1 billion in industry revenues, accounting for more than 35% of the county’s total economic output. Green County’s cheese manufacturing sector holds a location quotient of 9.68 — nearly ten times the national concentration — reflecting a true regional competitive advantage.
The study also identified key challenges ahead, including an aging workforce, succession planning gaps, and the need for greater entrepreneurship and market diversification. The resulting action plan lays out six strategies to address these issues: supporting farmers, strengthening marketing and market opportunities, expanding workforce development, fostering industry networking, managing biowaste, and encouraging entrepreneurship and business diversification.
Direct Support for Local Farms
Beyond the research, $40,000 of the grant was put directly to work. Eight local dairy farms each received $5,000 in grant funding to access professional consulting services for succession planning, business continuity, financial modeling, and long-term operational strategy — exactly the kind of individualized, expert guidance that can make the difference between a farm that thrives across generations and one that doesn’t make it to the next.
The impact was felt immediately by participating producers.
“The Dairy Transition and Planning Grant helped our farm get the planning assistance we needed to set up the next generation for success, and
continue our tradition of dairy farming in Green County.”
— Jordan Reimer, Reimer Farms
Looking Ahead
This grant initiative is part of GCDC’s broader commitment to keeping Green County’s dairy industry strong and competitive for decades to come.
“The long-term strength of Green County’s dairy industry depends on proactive planning. This program is designed to give producers the tools
and expertise they need to navigate transitions, reduce risk, and remain competitive for generations to come.”
— Olivia Otte, Executive Director, GCDC
With the analysis complete and planning assistance delivered, GCDC is now positioned to move forward on the action plan’s broader strategies — from establishing a Green County Dairy Growth coalition to launching entrepreneurship programs and exploring new market opportunities for local producers.
by GCDC | May 28, 2026 | News
The Green County Development Corporation (GCDC), in partnership with the Brodhead Jaycees, has been awarded $192,500 through the Wisconsin Department of Administration’s Non-State Grant Program to bring a fully inclusive, ADA-accessible splash pad to Jaycee Park in Brodhead, Wisconsin. The grant was announced by Governor Tony Evers as part of a $50 million investment in community development projects across the state and passed final approval by the Wisconsin State Building Commission on May 13, 2026.
Located at 300 4th Street in Brodhead, the Jaycee Park Inclusive Splash Pad & Revitalization Project will transform an outdated park space into a modern, interactive water play facility featuring sensory-friendly elements, barrier-free access, and sustainable water recirculation infrastructure — all at no cost to users. The total project cost is $500,000, with the Brodhead Jaycees having already raised over $280,000 in private contributions from residents, businesses, and civic organizations.
“This splash pad has been a community dream for years, and this grant makes it a reality,” said Katie Porterfield of the Brodhead Jaycees. “For families in Brodhead, especially those with limited incomes or children with disabilities, having a free, safe, and inclusive place to play right here at home means everything. We are grateful to Governor Evers and the Department of Administration for recognizing the need and investing in our community.”
“The Brodhead Jaycees have done extraordinary work building community support for this project, and this grant is a testament to that dedication,” said Olivia Otte of the Green County Development Corporation. “Investments like this splash pad strengthen quality of life and help rural communities like Brodhead compete and thrive. We’re proud to have supported this group effort.”
Beyond recreation, the splash pad is expected to strengthen Brodhead’s regional appeal as a destination, drawing visitors from surrounding communities to support local restaurants, shops, and businesses. Construction is expected to be completed by Spring 2027.
by GCDC | May 8, 2026 | News
The Green County Development Corporation (GCDC) invites the community to attend an open house celebrating the completion of this year’s Home Construction Cooperative student-built home.
The event will be held on Monday, May 11th from 4-6pm at the house, 1502 15th Street, Monroe. Guests are welcome to drop in at any time to tour the home, see the craftsmanship firsthand, and recognize the dedication and hard work of local students who brought the project to life. It’s also a great opportunity to thank the many trades professionals, educators, and sponsors who contribute their time, expertise, and resources to make the program possible and help elevate the trades in Green County.
The Home Construction Cooperative program is a hands-on educational initiative that gives high school students real-world experience in the skilled trades. Under the guidance of experienced instructors and local trades professionals, students participate in every phase of residential construction, from framing and electrical to finishing work, gaining valuable skills that prepare them for careers in construction and related industries.
“This project is a testament to the talent and commitment of the students, as well as the strong support from our local trades community,” said Olivia Otte, Executive Director of GCDC. “It’s an opportunity to celebrate their achievements and highlight the importance of workforce development in the skilled trades.”
The open house offers a unique chance to see the next generation of skilled workers in action and to support a program that continues to make a lasting impact on both students and the local housing market.
For more information, please contact GCDC at gcdc@greencountydevelopment.com or call 608-328-9452.
by GCDC | Dec 4, 2025 | News
Green County area high school students had the opportunity this month to work on their own business plan ideas and enter a competition to win startup funds to help turn those plans into reality. The awards night was held on Wednesday, December 3rd, at Monroe High School.
Green County Development Corporation (GCDC) hosted the contest for students in partnership with local school district business teachers and the Monroe School District LAUNCH program. The business startup funds were made possible through a Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) Small Business Development Grant awarded to GCDC. The grant was intended to support and encourage the entrepreneurial spirit of youth in Green County.
Sixteen student business plans were submitted for the competition, with prize awards ranging from $2,500 to $250 per student to help them get their businesses off the ground. A total of $20,200 was awarded this year.
A series of learning and planning events were held in the weeks leading up to the competition. The first event featured a presentation by the Wisconsin Small Business Development Center, offering guidance on understanding customers and writing a business plan. The second event included three local businesspeople serving as mentors, listening to student plans, providing feedback, and helping students fine-tune their final submissions. Those same mentors then acted as judges to determine the final awards.
“We had a great variety of submitted business plans in the contest, such as a mobile mechanic service, drone photography, and cattle genetics. This was a strong indication of the creativity, entrepreneurial mindset, and potential of the youth in Green County,” said Olivia Otte, Executive Director of GCDC.
“At GCDC, we’re passionate about supporting small businesses and encouraging entrepreneurs to chase their goals,” said Otte. “With our Elevate Entrepreneurs program, we’re excited to expand our support for both new and established businesses in more meaningful, long-term ways.”
All participating students
Top awardees
by GCDC | Nov 11, 2025 | News
Supported by the Housing Development Fund, Crosswind is a welcome addition to Brodhead!
by GCDC | Jul 9, 2025 | News, Projects
MONROE, WI – Green County Development Corporation (GCDC) has been awarded $62,770 in grant funds from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) to strengthen the region’s dairy export capabilities and position Wisconsin dairy producers for greater global success.
The funding, part of DATCP’s strategic initiative to expand Wisconsin’s agricultural exports, will support GCDC in conducting a cold chain and export logistics feasibility study, addressing supply chain gaps, and enhancing research and development efforts in export readiness.
The dairy industry in Wisconsin contributes $52.8 billion to our economy. The 5,300 dairy farms in the state produce 25% of the nation’s cheese. In Green County there are 12 cheese plants utilizing milk from over 260 dairy farms.
“Wisconsin’s dairy industry is one of the strongest in the world, and Green County plays a vital role in that legacy,” said Olivia Otte, Executive Director of GCDC. “This grant allows us to explore how we can better support local producers and processors by improving export infrastructure and identifying new international market opportunities.”
The project will focus on three key areas:
- Feasibility Study: An in-depth analysis of cold chain logistics and export infrastructure needs in southern Wisconsin to ensure high-quality dairy products can reach global markets efficiently.
- Supply Chain Assistance: Identification and support for addressing gaps in transportation, packaging, and distribution systems that hinder dairy exports.
- Export Readiness R&D: Development of tools, resources, and training to prepare producers and processors to meet international demand and regulatory standards.
The initiative aligns with Wisconsin’s broader effort to grow its agricultural export footprint and enhances the competitiveness of small and medium-sized agribusinesses.
“We’re grateful to DATCP for recognizing the importance of regional leadership in strengthening our state’s agricultural economy,” said Otte. “With this support, we’re not just investing in exports — we’re investing in the future of Wisconsin dairy.”
GCDC is a non-profit organization connecting public and private partnerships to catalyze economic growth while enhancing the quality of life in Green County, Wisconsin.
