Your Success Story
Starts Here
Transform your business vision into reality.
Access the resources, connections, and expertise you need
to thrive in Wisconsin's Northwoods.
2,200+
Jobs Supported
Direct tourism employment in 2024. Tourism is the county's single-largest year-round job engine.
$58M+
Capital Invested
Major private-sector expansion & public infrastructure projects since 2022.
125+
Businesses Supported
Including 37 bounce-back-grant startups during COVID-19.
36
Years of Service
Established in 1989 and operating continuously ever since.
Your Success Is The Mission
Everything starts with helping you achieve your business goals
Our Mission
Rooted in Community since 1989, OCEDC is a non profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to improving the economic well-being of Oneida County through strategic partnerships, innovation, and long-term planning. Over the years, the organization has adapted to meet evolving community needs while staying true to it's core goal: enhancing the quality of life for residents through thoughtful economic development.
Our Vision
Focused on real solutions, OCEDC's work spans five critical focus area:
* Small Business Growth & Entrepreneur Support
* Housing Development
* Broadband Expansion
* Childcare Solutions
* Access to Capital
Why Choose OCEDC?
You get more than an economic development partner—you gain an advocate dedicated to turning your business challenges into opportunities and your ambitious goals into measurable success.
Your Proven Partner
Since 1989, businesses like yours have trusted OCEDC to provide the expertise, connections, and resources needed to succeed in Oneida County.
You'll benefit from decades of experience helping businesses navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Join the hundreds of companies that have grown with OCEDC's support—from startups finding their first location to established businesses expanding their operations.
What You Can Expect
The standards that ensure your success
Integrity
Transparent processes and honest guidance you can trust
Innovation
Fresh solutions tailored to your unique challenges
Collaboration
Connections that open doors for your business
Excellence
Results that exceed your expectations, every time
Leadership Team
Meet the people driving economic growth in Oneida County
Tony Pharo
Tony Pharo is the Executive Director of OCEDC, committed to sustainable development and a prosperous future for Oneida County.
Meet Tony Pharo: The New Guide to Economic Growth in Oneida County Tony Pharo is the Executive Director of the Oneida County Economic Development C...
Bristel Hamburg
Bristel Hamburg is OCEDC's Administrative Assistant, dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and promoting community growth.
Bristel Hamburg - Administrative Assistant Bristel Hamburg serves as the Administrative Assistant at Oneida County Economic Development Corporation...
Board of Directors
Community leaders guiding our mission
Pete Otis
OCEDC Board - Secretary/Minocqua Area Community Member
Andy Cordova
OCEDC Board - Treasurer
Collette Sorgel
OCEDC Board - Oneida County Board Member
Michael Tautges
OCEDC Board - Oneida County Board Member
Brad Kowieski
OCEDC Board - Member at Large
Cecily Dawson
OCEDC Board - Member at Large
Don Theisen
OCEDC Board - Member at Large
Dr. Bobbi Fields
OCEDC Board - Member at Large
Jacqui Sharpe
OCEDC Board - Ex-Officio Member
Jim Rosenberg
OCEDC Board - Ex-Officio Member
Josh Pike
OCEDC Board - Member at Large/Three Lakes Community
Kristopher Hanus
OCEDC Board - City of Rhinelander Member
Krystal Westfahl
OCEDC Board - Ex-Officio Member
Lauren Sackett
OCEDC Board - Ex-Officio Member
Patrick Reagan
OCEDC Board - City of Rhinelander Member
Russell Myers
OCEDC Board - Member at Large
Ty W. Erickson
OCEDC Board - President Elect/Minocqua Area Community Member
Leah Van Zile
OCEDC - Board President
Todd Leyden
OCEDC Board - Past President
Your Network Advantage
Connect with partners invested in your success
Ready to Write Your Success Story?
Take the first step toward growing your business in Oneida County.