MADISON, Wis. — In a major step forward for economic development in Northwest Wisconsin, Governor Tony Evers has issued a letter of support for designating Douglas County as a Historically Underutilized Business Zone (HUBZone), following advocacy from State Representative Angela Stroud (D-Ashland).
Representative Stroud wrote to the Governor earlier this year urging support for Fraser Shipyards’ request for HUBZone status, highlighting the opportunity to bring year-round employment, stabilize the workforce, and spur economic growth across the region. The Governor’s endorsement signals strong state-level support for this federal designation.
“This is a big win for the City of Superior and all of Douglas County,” said Representative Stroud. “The HUBZone designation has the potential to unlock significant opportunities with respect to federal contracts. This will help to address the fact that many of our jobs are seasonal and will bring more stable, well-paying, year-round, union jobs to the region. I’m grateful to Governor Evers for recognizing the importance of this effort.”
Fraser Shipyards, the City of Superior, the Douglas County Development Association, and the Chamber of Commerce have all voiced strong support for the designation, citing its potential to revitalize the local economy.
With the Governor’s support, Douglas County is now one step closer to receiving this critical designation from the U.S. Small Business Administration.
