Centergy, Inc. is the regional non-profit economic development corporation which serves the Central Wisconsin region and works to build the important coalitions and to develop the creative initiatives that will lead to economic growth. Many businesses, governmental units, educational institutions, chambers of commerce, and foundations in our region have combined their resources and energies to fuel Centergy's efforts to help drive the growth of existing businesses, attract new business investment, and enhance the quality of life in Central Wisconsin.

As the President of Centergy, I value the mission of Centergy which is to stimulate measurable economic development in Central Wisconsin by aligning resources, encouraging cooperation among all sectors of our regional economy, and promoting the value of doing business here. As an attorney with Ruder Ware, I daily witness the power of regional collaboration to benefit our clients and the value of Centergy's role in spearheading these efforts.

Ruder Ware has a long history of support for and leadership of non-profit organizations which seek to improve the quality of life in the Central Wisconsin region. Centergy provides yet another opportunity for us to give back to the communities which provide us a wonder place to live and work.

Centergy's three areas of focus revolve around the following initiatives:

• Workforce development initiatives to attract, develop, and retain talent and encourage increased educational attainment.
• Business development initiatives, based on research and advanced manufacturing concepts, focused on targeted growth industries, and supported by entrepreneurial development programs, in the following areas.
  • Medical Sciences
  • Alternative Energy Production
  • Paper/Wood Products
  • Advanced Agriculture and Food Processing
  • Innovation and Entrepreneurship
• Community development initiatives to encourage and embrace diverse talents, enhance communities through recreation and the arts, promote a regional brand, and advocate for strong infrastructure.

Centergy has brought together private and public sector leaders from throughout the Central Wisconsin region who strongly believe in the power of regional economic development efforts that are based upon collaboration and long-term focus on targeted initiatives. Our group is lead by our Board of Directors and is guided by our Executive Council with a majority of the representatives coming from the private sector. In the upcoming months you will get an opportunity to read about some of our board members and why their companies support Centergy's mission. We are fortunate to also have active members from educational institutions and units of government for a well-rounded approach to achieve tangible results.

Our plan of work is aggressive and we constantly seek input on how we can improve our initiatives to provide a vibrant, unified Central Wisconsin economy that attracts and retains thriving businesses and a high quality workforce, fosters entrepreneurial activity, and inspires continuous improvement in our quality of life. You can view our 2009 Centergy Plan of Work and other information regarding our organization at www.centergy.net. If you wish to get involved in Centergy, please contact me at 715-845-4336 or Barb Fleisner, our Executive Director, at 715-843-9563.