Chippewa Valley Times

Adam Accola has been appointed as the first joint director of economic development in Dunn County. The position was established earlier this year through a collaboration between the county, City of Menomonie, and UW-Stout. Additional support came from the Dunn County Economic Development Corporation, Greater Menomonie Development Corporation, and Stout Technology and Business Park. These six entities signed a memorandum of agreement to provide funding for the role.

Accola has spent five years as a manager and administrator at Coven, formerly known as CoLab, in Eau Claire. This co-working space supports start-up businesses and entrepreneurs.

“I am looking forward to the innovative and collaborative approach to economic development that partners have pursued through this position,” Accola stated. “The entirety of our county is ripe with possibilities for current businesses to thrive and grow, new businesses to emerge and succeed, and for outside businesses looking to call greater Dunn County home.”

Initially, Accola will concentrate on several key areas:

- Retention and expansion of current businesses

- New business development, including start-ups

- Fostering the development of new housing

- Business attraction

“This shared position will allow the greater community to respond in a comprehensive way to the needs of business and industry,” said UW-Stout Chancellor Katherine Frank. “It’s not just about attracting new business to the region but also working with existing businesses and providing streamlined resources.”

Accola operates out of the UW-Stout Office of Corporate Relations and Economic Engagement. His office is located in room 278E, Jarvis Hall Technology Wing. He can be contacted at accolaa@uwstout.edu or 715-232-5444.