Chippewa Valley Times

The University of Wisconsin-Stout has been recognized as the Large Business of the Year by the Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce. This award highlights UW-Stout's significant economic impact, community outreach, and innovative contributions to the region.

With an annual economic impact exceeding $306 million, UW-Stout employs 1,100 faculty and staff and enrolls around 7,000 students. The university also supports numerous businesses through its Manufacturing Outreach Center (MOC) and other programs. Ashley DeMuth, CEO of the Menomonie Area Chamber of Commerce, remarked on UW-Stout's importance: “I don’t know what Menomonie would be without UW-Stout.”

Chancellor Katherine Frank accepted the award during the chamber’s annual meeting on May 28. Frank emphasized that the award celebrates "the partnerships, relationships, and collaboration between UW-Stout and the broader community."

Previous recipients of this honor include WESTconsin Credit Union, Walmart Distribution Center, and Culver’s. The recognition underscores UW-Stout's role in workforce development and business services in Menomonie.

UW-Stout's MOC works with small- and medium-sized manufacturers across northwestern and west-central Wisconsin. From 2021 to 2023, it engaged with 371 manufacturers, generating over $276 million in economic activity.

The university also offers resources like the Fab Lab for digital fabrication projects. Last year saw UW-Stout establish a joint economic development position for Dunn County with various local organizations' support.

Adam Accola was appointed as Dunn County's first joint director of economic development to aid in business retention and expansion efforts. Furthermore, UW-Stout partnered with WiSys to create WiSys VentureHome-Menomonie for connecting entrepreneurs with resources.

DeMuth commended UW-Stout for its cooperative education opportunities that integrate students into local businesses through internships and capstone projects.

Beyond these initiatives, Chancellor Frank leads a Community Outreach Committee that fosters connections between UW-Stout and regional nonprofits such as Boys and Girls Club and Stepping Stones.