Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) -- Here to start the foundational conversation around "What does Economic Development do?"

Jackson County Economic Development & Tourism

1. What is the mission of Jackson County Economic Development & Tourism?
The mission is to serve as the county’s systems steward by shaping long‑term economic and tourism strategies that improve quality of life and support economic advancement for all residents.

2. What is the vision for economic development and tourism in Jackson County?
The vision is to become a statewide benchmark for balanced economic growth and to be recognized as Wisconsin’s leading outdoor recreational hub—offering quality jobs, strong local businesses, competitive wages, and thriving recreational opportunities across all communities.

3. Why was the Economic Development & Tourism Director position created?
Following a 2024 strategic planning process and a multi‑year evaluation, the County Board created a full‑time director position to drive revenue growth through business support, tourism expansion, and infrastructure investment. Counties with established economic development programs had shown stronger and more consistent outcomes.

4. What are the department’s core focus areas?
The department’s work centers on three pillars:
• Retain – Supporting existing businesses and workforce needs.
• Recruit – Attracting new industry and talent by leveraging Jackson County’s infrastructure and resources.
• Recreate – Strengthening tourism and promoting Jackson County as Wisconsin’s Outdoor Recreation Hub.

5. What does “Retain” mean in Jackson County’s strategy?
“Retain” focuses on supporting and advocating for local businesses and workers. This includes assessing business needs, offering assistance, and securing resources that help home‑grown companies and small businesses thrive.

6. What does “Recruit” involve?
Recruitment efforts target new industries and workforce by highlighting strengths such as access to I‑94, broadband, natural gas, water sources, transmission lines, and railroads. The goal is to grow opportunities instead of letting them bypass the county.

7. What does “Recreate” mean for Jackson County?
“Recreate” refers to expanding tourism by promoting the county’s high‑quality outdoor amenities, which include camping, kayaking, swimming, hiking, UTV/ATV trails, elk spotting, natural reserves, trail networks, and more. Jackson County brands itself as the Outdoor Recreational Hub of Wisconsin.

8. What makes Jackson County a strong destination for business and recreation?
Jackson County is known for:
• A strong industrial base
• Partnerships with the Ho‑Chunk Nation
• Resident elk herds
• World‑class UTV/ATV trail systems
• Extensive public lands
• A heritage of farming, strong work ethic, and community commitment

9. How does the department support economic development?
The department engages with systems such as workforce, housing, childcare, health, business resources, and community infrastructure. It supports local economies by aligning strategies, finding resources, fostering resiliency, and helping grow the property tax base.

10. Who are the department’s internal partners?
Partners include:
• Jackson County Forestry, Parks & Recreation
• Jackson County Land Records
• Jackson County Administration
• Veterans Service Office
• UW‑Extension
• Ho‑Chunk Nation

11. Who are the department’s external partners?
The department collaborates with a wide range of entities, including:
• Local municipalities
• Mississippi River Regional Planning Commission
• Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC)
• Office of Rural Prosperity
• 7 Rivers Alliance
• Wisconsin Rural Partners
• Department of Tourism / Travel Wisconsin
• Office of Outdoor Recreation
• WHEDA
• Wisconsin Procurement Institute
• Workforce Connections
• Local chambers, SBDCs, and business centers
• Electric, water, and utility providers
• Area school districts and technical colleges

12. How can residents get involved in shaping outdoor recreation planning?
Residents and recreation users are invited to complete the Jackson County Outdoor Recreation Plan survey by June 12th to share ideas and help shape future recreational investments.

13. Where can I follow updates or connect with the department online?

Social Media Hashtag Branding: #AllTheRoads #WIOutdoorRecreationHub #EconomicDevelopment #EconomyThroughEcology #SmallBusinessResource #DestinationTourism #Retain #Recruit #Recreate #ExceptionalFacesLiveInRuralPlaces
You can follow or contact Jackson County Economic Development & Tourism through:
• Facebook: Jackson County WI Outdoor Recreation Activity Hub
• Google Business Profile
• WordPress News/Blog
• LinkedIn: Jackson County Economic Development & Tourism