Achievements in Economic Development Recognized at 2025 CEDA Awards
Oshkosh, WI – The Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA) is excited to announce the Kenosha Innovation Center project has won a 2025 Community and Economic Development Award (CEDA) in the Economic Development Initiative category. The CEDA Awards were established by WEDA to recognize economic development projects, businesses, and organizations that have made significant contributions to the Wisconsin economy. Winners were recognized at the annual CEDA Awards ceremony, which was held September 25, 2025, in Oshkosh, WI.
Three CEDA finalists were selected in each of the four following CEDA categories: Business Retention and Expansion; Economic Development Initiative; Real Estate Redevelopment and Reuse; and Talent Attraction, Development, and Retention. The winners in each category were announced and celebrated at the awards ceremony that was attended by over 200 economic development professionals from across the state.
The Kenosha Innovation Center project won their CEDA Award in the Economic Development Initiative category, which recognizes innovation in community and economic development that promotes economic growth within communities and regions.
“The importance and positive effect of economic development are often overlooked, and the CEDA Awards provide a tremendous opportunity to celebrate the far-reaching impact of economic development and how it creates a powerful cycle of prosperity for communities across the state,” said WEDA President and CEO Melissa Hunt. “The program also allows WEDA members to recognize and support their economic development colleagues. I know I am thrilled to congratulate the Kenosha Innovation Center on their CEDA Award.”
The Kenosha Innovation Center transformed a historic industrial site into a hub for entrepreneurship, technology, and workforce development. Opening in fall 2025, this 64,000-square-foot facility is the flagship project of the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood, a $24 million investment designed to fuel inclusive economic growth. Led by the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood in partnership with the City of Kenosha, Miron Construction, and educational, philanthropic, and industry leaders, the Center provides flexible office space, R&D labs, and collaborative environments. It will also offer upskilling opportunities and entrepreneurial assistance. More than a building, the Kenosha Innovation Center represents a new economic engine for Southeastern Wisconsin – bridging Kenosha’s manufacturing legacy with its innovation-driven future. By fostering collaboration, preparing a future-ready workforce, and supporting startups and established companies alike, the Center exemplifies the vision of innovation, impact, and community transformation.
“This recognition highlights the power of turning a historic site into a new engine of opportunity preparing our workforce, supporting startups, and building a stronger future for Kenosha and Southeast Wisconsin,” said Kelly Armstrong, President of the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood.
CEDA finalists were screened and selected by an impartial panel of judges comprised of key WEDA members and partners. The independent panel reviewed many projects that were submitted for consideration, but the 12 finalists and ultimately the winners were selected based on the significant economic impact each project has had on its respective community or region
The 2025 CEDA Awards would not be possible without the support of WEDA’s generous partners and sponsors, including Alliant Energy; Dairyland Power Cooperative; US Bank; Xcel Energy; First Ring Industrial Redevelopment Enterprise (FIRE); and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation.
