Beyond Business Retention: Young Professional Awardee Envisions a Thriving Chippewa Valley

As a lifelong resident of the Chippewa Valley, Adam Accola’s motivation is rooted in a deep commitment to the area that shaped him. 

Sure, he wants to see the region survive. But he also wants to see it healthy, robust… a thriving community where future generations can live, work, and raise a family. 

To ensure that happens, Accola, who serves as joint director of economic development for Dunn Economic Development, has a razor-sharp focus on addressing foundational needs like housing stock availability and childcare infrastructure. 

“Economic development in rural communities requires targeted, proactive solutions, particularly regarding systemic barriers like housing and childcare,” he said. “Recently, we launched a Housing and Childcare Revolving Loan Fund to provide vital gap financing in these critical areas. Additionally, we are continuing to administer a $250,000 state grant to small businesses throughout Dunn County. These initiatives are designed to create tangible, immediate impacts for our local entrepreneurs and families.” 

Those aspirations don’t come easy. But it's Accola’s tireless dedication and willingness to inspire ideas into action that makes Momentum West honored to recognize him with its Young Professional Award. 

More Than Just Business Retention

While the goal of any economic development organization is to further the growth of the region, Accola’s vision for creating a prosperous community goes far beyond the bottom line. 

“This isn't just about business retention; it's about making sure families can build sustainable, fulfilling lives here. Having the opportunity to give back to my home community and help local business owners realize their goals is incredibly rewarding,” he said. 

That forward-thinking action unfolds through a collaborative partnership that Dunn Economic Development shares with a consortium that includes:

• City of Menomonie
• Dunn County
• University of Wisconsin-Stout
• Three non-profit boards: the Dunn County Economic Development Corporation, the Greater Menomonie Development Corporation
• Stout Technology and Business Park

“This unified structure allows us to pool resources and align our strategies to foster robust economic growth across Greater Dunn County,” he said. “These partners constantly set me up for success by providing vital professional development opportunities, facilitating connections with key organizations and individuals, and supporting my attendance at conferences that help put Dunn County back into the state spotlight for economic development.”

For Accola, that collaborative spirit is what defines the Momentum West region.

“Working within this 10-county network provides access to shared resources, regional advocacy, and a community of exceptional leaders who understand the unique challenges and opportunities of West Central Wisconsin,” he said.

“It allows us to tackle broader regional issues together rather than operating in silos.” 

An Active, Accessible Partner for Your Business

Ensuring the continued capitalization and successful deployment of Dunn Economic Development’s revolving loan funds and business grants occupy the top tier of Accola’s immediate goals for the region.

But it doesn’t stop there.

“I am also continuously striving to provide enhanced education for elected officials and the community, as well as added capacity for our municipal staff. Long-term, I aim to adapt our strategies to address the evolving needs of our workforce, ensuring that Greater Dunn County remains highly competitive in business attraction while fiercely supporting the retention and expansion of our existing local enterprises,” he said.

He also wants Dunn Economic Development to be seen as an active, accessible partner.

“We are here to remove barriers,” he said. “Whether you are a brand-new startup securing your first physical space or an established manufacturer looking to expand, we have the tools, the partnerships, and the drive to help you succeed in Greater Dunn County.”