Dunn County to Pursue Federal Designation as a HUBZone

DUNN COUNTY, Wis (WSCM / WCFW) – Dunn County could receive designation as a historically underutilized business zone as part of a statewide push by Governor Tony Evers.

Earlier this week, Gov. Evers and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation announced a formal petition to designate multiple counties as HUBZones, including Dunn County. The designation would allow local businesses to access certain federal contracts that are set aside for HUBZones.

The U.S. Small Business Administration is responsible for approving the designation. The decisions are based on using economic and population data from a variety of federal agencies to determine if the HUBZone designation would stimulate the local economy.

Adam Accola, Director of Dunn Economic Development, also praised the designation as a potential game-changer for the county. “This isn’t just about federal contracts; it’s about creating higher-wage jobs, empowering our local entrepreneurs, and building a more resilient and prosperous future,” he said. “It provides a tangible advantage to the small and medium-sized businesses that form our economic backbone, allowing them to invest, expand and thrive right here at home.”

If Dunn County does receive the designation as a HUBZone, it will remain in effect until July 2028.

Governor Evers also recently petitioned to have Douglas County designated as a HUBZone ahead of the Blatnik Bridge Reconstruction Project. The designation would help local businesses weather the disruptions caused by the project, which will see the crucial transportation corridor closed for about five years. Around 33,000 vehicles cross the bridge connecting Wisconsin and Minnesota each day. Transportation officials also expect the total cost of the project to reach nearly $2 billion.