MadREP and the Madison Region enjoyed a number of wins, accomplishments and rankings in 2022. Here’s our ranking of the top ten!
10: Annual Summit Returns Live
After two years of virtual presentations, MadREP, along with our partners at the Urban League of Greater Madison, were thrilled to host this year’s in-person gathering at Monona Terrace. Hundreds of professionals and community leaders came together at the 9th Annual Economic Development & Diversity Summit to discuss pressing topics at the intersection of diversity, equity, inclusion and economic development.
9: Publishing 7th Annual Workplace Leadership & Diversity Survey Published
In conjunction with the Summit, MadREP released our 2022 Madison Region Workplace Diversity & Inclusion Survey (sponsored by Associated Bank). The results showed incremental improvement in some areas and more work to do in others, as reported by In Business and the Wisconsin State Journal.
8: Hosting Office Hours in each of our Eight Counties
MadREP staff enjoyed a series of outings throughout the Region, meeting with business and community leaders in Milton, Beloit, Portage, Dodgeville, New Glarus and more! We loved being able to learn about the specific needs of so many communities in our Region as we evaluate priorities for 2023.
7: Launching Broadband Speed Test Initiative
Early in the year, MadREP launched a crowd-sourced speed test tool for the Madison Region to prepare for new FCC maps. Wisconsinites can now use the tool to collect real-time data before submitting corrections to the FCC’s new national broadband map by January 13, 2023.
6: Leading on Regional Workforce Transportation
After announcing a vanpool pilot in partnership with Commute With Enterprise in March 2022, MadREP collaborated with Competitive Wisconsin and Blackhawk Tech on a transportation accelerator event in November. As we close out 2022, we’re pleased to have three vanpools on the road supporting rural worker transit and we look forward to adding more in 2023.
5: Completing EDA Sector Strategy Project
After securing a grant from the EDA in June 2021 to support the process, MadREP has completed our work on a clear vision for economic growth based on growing clusters and an action plan that builds the region’s resiliency. We look forward to publishing the results in the new year.
4: Bringing Green Bay Packers Mentor-Protégé Program to the Region
After joining the effort’s board of directors, Fields and the Packers promoted the unique opportunity to small businesses throughout the Madison Region. The program partners applicants with experienced business leaders, who provide technical, managerial, financial and other guidance to help companies improve their competitive standing.
3: Jason Fields Earning Certified Economic Developer Designation
Our Fearless Leader Jason Fields added even more letters behind his name when he was recognized as a Certified Economic Developer by the International Economic Development Council in September 2022. The CEcD program is the most prestigious designation in the economic development profession.
2: Administering $10,000 Main Street BounceBack Grants to 850+ Businesses
As a partner in WEDC’s Main Street Bounceback Grant Program, MadREP has worked to provide one-time assistance to new and existing businesses opening a new location or expanding operations in a vacant commercial space. The application deadline for the Main Street Bounceback Grant Program is December 31, 2022.
1: Ranking #1 Best Place to Live, Again
For the second consecutive year, Madison topped Livability.com’s list of Best Places to Live, which garners millions of views annually. Jason Fields and Madison Chamber President Zach Brandon’s appearance on the outlet’s podcast is not to be missed! Additionally, MadREP is closing in on a decade of partnership with Livability Media, where we collaborate on initiatives like this and our annual roundup of great stories from throughout the Region.
