Leadership

Madison Regional Economic Partnership Welcomes Jason Vangalis as New Board President

Jorden Ludeking · Feb 19, 2025 ·

Madison, WI – Madison Regional Economic Partnership (MadREP) is pleased to announce the appointment of Jason Vangalis as its new Board President. With over a decade of experience in community and economic development, Jason brings a wealth of expertise to MadREP, having worked on large-scale business attraction projects from diverse industries and countries.

Jason Vangalis, New MadREP Board President

“We are thrilled to welcome Jason as Board President,” said Everett Butzine, Interim President and CEO of MadREP. “His expertise in economic development and our shared vision for the Madison Region will be invaluable as we continue to foster growth and innovation.”

Jason’s most recent role involves leading Amazon’s central US expansion and economic development policy efforts. His extensive career includes advising international businesses and governments on attraction and expansion projects, as well as working on in-house economic development teams for two multinational corporations. His achievements in the field of economic development have contributed to the creation of over 20,000 jobs and more than $10 billion in capital investment in communities in Wisconsin and around the county.

“The region is an economic engine aimed at growth. I am excited to help create intention and direction in the growth of the Madison region,” said Vangalis. “And this is an exciting opportunity to build on the success MadREP has seen in the last few years. This organization has a solid foundation and partnership with Everett’s depth of economic development knowledge will help immensely in building on that. We’ve got plenty of work to do, let’s get to it!”

Jason’s leadership goals for MadREP include:

Building upon the organization’s strategic planning foundation, with a focus on traditional economic development.
Strengthening the region’s economic ecosystem by fostering connections between stakeholders throughout Madison and beyond.
Driving industry diversification across the Madison region with targeted business attraction efforts.

The Madison Regional Economic Partnership extends sincere thanks and appreciation to Peter Tang, former Board President and Vice President at Strang, Inc. Peter’s leadership over the past term was instrumental in MadREP’s growth and continued success. Under his guidance, MadREP strengthened its regional partnerships and played a vital role in attracting new businesses and fostering economic development in the area.

“We are incredibly grateful for Peter Tang’s dedication to MadREP’s mission,” said Everett Butzine, Interim President and CEO of MadREP. “Peter’s leadership has had a lasting impact on the organization, and we wish him all the best in his future endeavors.”

As MadREP moves forward under Jason Vangalis’ board leadership, the organization remains committed to driving sustainable economic development and fostering long-term growth in the Madison region. For more information, please visit madisonregion.org, or contact:

Everett Butzine
Interim President and CEO
communications@madisonregion.org

About MadREP:
MadREP is a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering sustainable economic development across the Madison region. It serves as a resource for business attraction, expansion, and retention while focusing on long-term strategies to promote regional growth and prosperity.

Madison Region Economic Partnership (MadREP) Announces New Leadership Direction

Jorden Ludeking · Nov 18, 2024 ·

Madison, WI – Nov. 18, 2024 – The Madison Region Economic Partnership (MadREP), a leading non-profit dedicated to economic development in the eight-county Madison Region, today announced the resignation of its President and CEO, Jason Fields, effective December 1, 2024.

Jason M. Fields, CEO & President of MadREP

Fields has been with MadREP for four years, during which time he has made significant contributions to the organization’s mission of fostering economic growth and development. Under Fields’ leadership, MadREP has expanded its partner base, supported regional businesses through multiple programs during the pandemic, and most importantly developed a Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), a designation from the US Economic Development Administration that positions MadREP to secure additional resources to further is mission.

“It has been an honor to serve as the President and CEO of MadREP,” said Fields. “I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and am confident that the organization will continue to thrive and make a positive impact on our community.”

The board Executive Committee will appoint Everett Butzine, now MadREP’s Vice President of Economic Development, to the role of Interim President and CEO to ensure a smooth transition.

“We are grateful for Jason Fields’ dedication and leadership over the past four years,” said Peter Tan, Chair of the Board of Directors. “We wish Jason all the best in his future endeavors and are committed to making sure the next phase of leadership drives our mission forward.”

For more information, please contact: Peter Tan, MadREP Board Chair, ptan@strang-inc.com

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About Madison Region Economic Partnership (MadREP) is dedicated to advancing economic development in the eight-county Madison Region, which includes Columbia, Dane, Dodge, Green, Iowa, Jefferson, Rock, and Sauk counties. Our mission is to drive economic growth and enhance the quality of life in our communities through strategic initiatives and partnerships.

MadREP CEO Jason Fields Shares Expertise in Forbes Best Practices Roundup

Jessica Reilly · Jun 5, 2024 ·

In the business world, gaining recognition from a prestigious publication can be a game-changer. Recently, Jason Fields, the President and CEO of Madison Region Economic Partnership (MadREP), was featured in a Forbes’ “best practices” roundup, 20 Ways Nonprofits Can Demonstrate Impact Beyond Numbers. This milestone not only highlights his expertise but also underscores the innovative approach MadREP takes in supporting startups and fostering economic growth in Southcentral Wisconsin.

The Forbes Council and Jason Fields’ Involvement

An Exclusive Honor

Being part of the Forbes Council is no small feat. This invitation-only community is comprised of top industry leaders who share their insights and expertise on various topics. Jason Fields’ inclusion in this esteemed group is a testament to his impactful work at MadREP and his commitment to economic development.

Expert Advice in the Spotlight

Fields’ expert advice was selected for the “best practices” roundup, 20 Ways Nonprofits Can Demonstrate Impact Beyond Numbers, a collection of valuable tips and strategies from industry leaders. His contribution sheds light on innovative ways nonprofits can demonstrate their impact beyond just numbers.

Beyond Numbers How Nonprofits Can Demonstrate Impact

The Challenge of Quantifying Impact

Nonprofits often face the challenge of illustrating their value in a way that goes beyond financial metrics. Jason Fields, along with other experts from the Forbes Nonprofit Council, provide creative solutions to this problem.

Showcase Visuals and Contextual Data

One effective strategy is to combine storytelling with metrics. By using visuals, testimonials, and contextual data, nonprofits can paint a fuller picture of their work. This approach makes their impact more relatable and understandable to stakeholders.

Personalized Communication

It’s crucial to tailor communication to different stakeholder groups. Understanding what each group values and creating dynamic campaigns based on their interests can significantly enhance engagement.

Real Stories from Real People

Personalized updates and stories from those directly impacted by the nonprofit’s work can humanize the mission. Sharing these narratives is often more powerful than statistics alone.

MadREP’s Mission and Support for Startups

Technical Assistance for Promising Startups

At the core of MadREP’s mission is providing technical assistance to promising startups in southcentral Wisconsin. By offering resources, guidance, and support, MadREP helps these startups thrive in a competitive landscape.

Building a Thriving Business Ecosystem

MadREP is dedicated to building a robust business ecosystem. Through various initiatives, they foster innovation, support local businesses, and attract potential investors to the Region.

Your Startup Could Be Next

If you have a promising startup, MadREP wants to hear from you. Our commitment to nurturing new businesses means that your venture could benefit from our resources and expertise.

20 Strategies for Nonprofits to Demonstrate Impact

Showcase Visuals and Contextual Data

By using storytelling alongside metrics, nonprofits can provide a comprehensive view of their work. Success stories, visuals, and contextual data help make the impact more tangible.

Communicate Differently to Each Stakeholder Group

Identifying and understanding your stakeholders is key. Tailoring communication to address their specific interests and priorities can enhance the effectiveness of your campaigns.

Provide Personalized Updates

Sharing real, personalized stories from those benefiting from the nonprofit’s work can have a significant impact. These narratives humanize the mission and resonate on a deeper level.

Create Your Own Measurement Model

Developing a unique model for measuring progress and success can be very effective. Being transparent about goals, progress, and setbacks helps build trust with stakeholders.

Utilize Financial Results

Even when mission-based results are hard to quantify, financial results can always be leveraged. Sharing how investments are used and showcasing growth can illustrate value effectively.

Get Your Stakeholders Involved

Involve stakeholders in evaluating the impact. Engaging them through interviews, workshops, or direct feedback sessions makes them feel more connected and invested.

Use Images and Social Media

Leveraging multimedia, such as video, images, and social media, can bring your nonprofit’s work to life. These tools help make intangible results more tangible.

Forge Qualitative Data

Using qualitative data, like testimonials and stories, can powerfully demonstrate impact. These narratives draw in your audience and stakeholders by showcasing transformations.

Give a Behind-the-Scenes Look

Offering a behind-the-scenes glimpse into daily operations can engage stakeholders. This approach helps them understand the day-to-day activities and challenges.

Create Video Testimonials

Video testimonials are a compelling way to tell your story. They allow donors and stakeholders to hear directly from those whose lives have been impacted.

Share Stories from Multiple Viewpoints

Storytelling from various perspectives, including clients, staff, and volunteers, creates a comprehensive narrative. Recent and specific examples are particularly powerful.

Highlight Key Successes

Focusing on key successes and using first-person testimonies can effectively share your impact without overloading stakeholders with data.

Answer the ‘So What?’ Question

It’s essential to go beyond the numbers and explain the significance of your work. Highlighting how your efforts have led to tangible benefits can make a stronger impression.

Share Long-Term Results

Demonstrating long-term outcomes, such as increased earnings or reduced societal costs, can provide compelling evidence of your nonprofit’s impact.

Share Detailed Case Studies

Developing case studies that highlight specific success stories can illustrate the significance of your work. These detailed narratives provide a vivid picture of your contributions.

Provide Your Net Promoter Score

Using metrics like the Net Promoter Score can help gauge stakeholder satisfaction. This score reflects how likely people are to recommend your organization.

Communicate the Four T’s of Philanthropy

Highlighting the time, talent, treasure, and testimony involved in your work can effectively demonstrate return on investment for stakeholders.

Share Stories That Tell the Greater Story

Testimonials from direct recipients of your services can be incredibly impactful. These stories evoke emotion and leave a lasting impression.

Showcase Before-and-After Scenarios

Crafting before-and-after scenarios can make the impact more relatable. This approach turns abstract achievements into tangible narratives.

Always Be Transparent

Transparency about your processes, programs, and people is crucial. Being open about your intentions and approach can rally more supporters.

Empowering Your Entrepreneurial Journey

Jason Fields’ feature in Forbes not only highlights his expertise but also underscores MadREP’s dedication to fostering economic growth and supporting startups. By implementing the strategies shared by Fields and other experts, nonprofits can effectively demonstrate their impact and engage stakeholders more deeply.

If you’re an entrepreneur with a promising startup, MadREP is here to support you. Reach out to us and discover how we can help you thrive in southcentral Wisconsin.

For more insights and expert advice, stay tuned to our blog and consider joining the vibrant community of business leaders and entrepreneurs who are shaping the future.