The Central Wisconsin Region has experienced significant economic' development over the last decade. Although the early 1980s was a time of recession and stagnation, our local region successfully met that challenge and continues to grow, expand, and diversify into a prosperous economy. 

Portage, Marathon, and Wood Counties have performed better than the average of the State of Wisconsin in several important economic dimensions. Growth rates of population, employment, and per capita income have outpaced the State, and have provided evidence of a dynamic economy. However, progress has not been universal or steady in Central Wisconsin. Unemployment problems due to the seasonal nature of some of our industries have been a characteristic of our labor market. Financial hardship among Central Wisconsin families and individuals is comparable to levels of the State as a whole. Failures or contractions of local business firms have created adjustment problems for employees and their communities. 

The importance of economic development to the future of our area is clear. Therefore, the Central Wisconsin Economic Research Bureau is presenting the following discussion of this subject. 

"The Role of Education in Economic Development" by Professor Lawrence Weiser, Director, Center for Economic Education, UW‑Stevens Point. 

"Small Business, Entrepreneurship, and Regional Development" by Professor Richard Judy, Head, Division of Business and Economics, UW‑Stevens Point.

"Local Development Issues" 

            in Wausau      ‑ Mr. Roger Luce. Executive Director, Marathon
                                       County Economic Development Council. 

            in Marshfield  ‑ Mr. Randy Allen, City Administrator of Marshfield. 

            in Stevens Point        ‑ Mr. Vern Holmes.
                                                   Executive Director, Portage County Economic
                                                   Development Corporation.