Today's knowledge-based economy is dependent upon creative people. Not merely "creative arts" types – but creative people who thrive in flexible environments with multi-disciplinary teams. People who think broadly and can see the interconnections in a global society. People who bring unique viewpoints and a collaborative style to their work. People who can think critically, find solutions and solve problems.

Business owners love to hire people like that. We're all looking for them.

If we're in agreement that our businesses – and region – need these bright people, then the next logical question is: how do we attract and retain them?

This is one of the key questions Centergy Inc., our regional non-profit economic development corporation for Central Wisconsin, is working to address. Centergy aims to build effective coalitions and develop creative initiatives to stimulate economic growth. Its efforts to drive growth in existing businesses, attract new business investment and enhance quality of life in Central Wisconsin are propelled by the combined resources of many businesses, governmental units, educational institutions, chambers of commerce and foundations within our region.

There's more to economic development than simply talking about electricity rates and land costs. Centergy recognizes it's a complex equation. A basic component relates to the "people" needs of businesses. That's where "quality of place" figures in.

Centergy's priorities relating to "Quality of Place" are:

• Market the region's quality of life to help retain and recruit a talented workforce. We know the types of workers we need often choose a "place" before they choose their "job." They're looking for a place that's stimulating, interesting, and nurturing. They want a life outside their business or career. Collectively, Central Wisconsin has a lot to offer – from vibrant downtowns to nationally recognized arts programs; from active university programs to outstanding recreational activities.
• Form a Creative Council. Centergy is working with local chambers of commerce and young professional networks to form a vigorous advisory group. After taking stock of what we already have and do to attract and retain the best workers, it will advise Centergy’s board on additional strategies and tactics.
• Make the connection. Ironically, the busy folks in our knowledge economy aren't always aware of local events. We want to put social media, events websites and traditional media to work connecting people with local quality-of-place resources they'll enjoy.

The people who will fuel the success of our regional economy are, undoubtedly, going want to live where there is a good quality-of-place. From a business standpoint, central Wisconsin offers a winning combination: a low cost of living with a high quality of life.

Centergy hopes our businesses and communities will recognize and contribute to creating an environment that makes the best people want to stay here.

Mark T. Nelson is a Centergy board member; president of Microscopy Innovations, Marshfield, Wis., a start-up firm developing a novel system for handling biospecimens; and board president of Chestnut Avenue Center for the Arts, a non-profit community arts organization he founded with his wife, Bridget, in 2003.

"There's more to economic development than simply talking about electricity rates and land costs. Centergy recognizes that it's a complex equation. A basic component relates to the 'people' needs of businesses. That's where 'quality of place' figures in..."
- Mark T. Nelson, Centergy board member.