Gov. Evers Seeks Trump Administration Approval for HUBZone Designations to Support Small Businesses, Boost Rural Wisconsin Economies

“Our small businesses are the hearts of our communities and our local and state economies. These designations will be critically important to help support our small businesses, especially in some of our rural communities and counties, and ensure they can compete for new and different opportunities,” said Gov. Evers. “Wisconsin is home to incredible talent, and this HUBZone designation will help level the playing field for small businesses and working families in rural Wisconsin and bring much-needed investments to areas that have long been underserved.”

The governor’s effort for several counties and other local communities to receive the HUBZone designation has garnered broad support from local governments, economic development organizations, and educational institutions. Organizations and agencies, including WEDC, Wisconsin’s Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), and Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs), as well as regional and local economic development organizations, are prepared to provide technical assistance and outreach to help businesses navigate the HUBZone certification process.

The SBA’s HUBZone program allows businesses in disadvantaged communities to compete for federal set-aside contracts, offering employment and growth opportunities where they are most needed for positive economic impact. HUBZones are designated based on economic and population data from the U.S. Census Bureau and other federal agencies, using definitions established by the U.S. Congress. If approved, the designation would allow small businesses in the affected regions to gain preferential access to federal contracting opportunities, a critical tool for stimulating local economies. The petition, submitted under the authority granted to state governors by the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018, outlines the urgent need for federal support in these areas.

“This is about building long-term, inclusive economic resilience,” said WEDC Secretary and CEO Missy Hughes. “With the HUBZone designation, we can unlock new opportunities for entrepreneurs and small businesses across rural Wisconsin.”

In May, Gov. Evers also urged the SBA to make Douglas County eligible for a HUBZone designation to help support Douglas County and the city of Superior during the closure and replacement of the John A. Blatnik Bridge between Superior, Wisconsin, and Duluth, Minnesota, beginning next year. Despite the overwhelming local support for the designation, the SBA rejected the governor’s request. Gov. Evers will continue to support rural Wisconsin and the businesses through state and federal programs.

If approved, the designations would remain in effect through at least July 1, 2028, providing a critical window for local businesses to grow and compete in the federal marketplace.  

The governor’s petition identifies the economic challenges facing each county and includes letters of support from local officials, which are highlighted below.

Dunn County
Dunn County is home to the University of Wisconsin–Stout and has a strong educational foundation, however the county continues to face income disparities in its rural areas. 

“HUBZone status offers a crucial advantage to the small- and medium-sized enterprises forming the local economic backbone, enabling them to secure federal contracts, increase revenue, expand, and create higher-wage jobs.” Dunn County Economic Development Director Adam Accola wrote WEDC in support of the petition.

Waushara County
Waushara County has experienced job losses in key sectors like manufacturing and transportation, which has been compounded by an aging population and declining labor force participation in the region.

“While tourism and second homes remain important economic drivers, federal HUBZone support—particularly through increased access to federal contracts and technical assistance—would foster entrepreneurship, help expand existing businesses and attract new investment to the region,” the application states.

Sawyer County
Sawyer County is home to the Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa Indians, which the Tribal Nation and surrounding communities struggle with geographic isolation and low average family income.

“The benefits of HUBZone designation have been substantial for Sawyer County. Working in conjunction with the Sawyer County/Lac Courte Oreilles Economic Development Corporation, it has provided our small businesses with the tools to compete for federal contracts, spurred job creation, and contributed to a more resilient rural economy,” Sawyer County Interim Administrator Michael Markgren wrote in support of the petition.

Florence County 
Florence County is one of the most remote and least populated counties in the state, and due to their location and population challenges, as well as their seasonal economy and limited private sector, the county faces structural economic challenges.

“The HUBZone Program has the potential to serve as a catalyst for long-term economic resilience,” the application states. “This designation would assist in spurring economic development by increasing access to federal contracting opportunities for local small businesses, encouraging entrepreneurship, and supporting job creation.”