Progress Lakeshore

08/27/2026

Today marked an important milestone for Manitowoc with the groundbreaking at the former Mirro site.

For Progress Lakeshore, this location holds significant importance. Our organization was established in response to the economic difficulties caused by Mirro's departure from the community. It is meaningful to witness new investment and momentum at a site that played a key role in the founding of our organization.

As we look ahead, we're excited to see the continued transformation of this historic property and what it means for Manitowoc's future.

Governmental leaders celebrated the official groundbreaking of new apartments in Manitowoc. A ceremony was hel...

08/27/2026

📩 Don't Miss Out on Opportunities That Can Help Your Business Grow

From funding and training opportunities to workforce insights, business resources, and upcoming events, our newsletter keeps you informed and connected.

Delivered every other week, the Progress Lakeshore newsletter helps you stay ahead of what's happening in Manitowoc County's business community without filling your inbox.

✅ Business Resources
✅ Upcoming Events & Trainings
✅ Economic Development News
✅ Funding & Growth Opportunities

📬 Subscribe today: https://www.progresslakeshore.org/news/newsletter/

08/26/2026

Where do you want your business to be in 3 years?

If you're spending all your time managing daily operations, it can be difficult to focus on the bigger picture. Our Strategic Planning for Small Businesses program helps business owners step back, clarify goals, identify growth opportunities, and create a roadmap for long-term success.

✅ Strengthen leadership skills
✅ Improve financial planning
✅ Set measurable goals
✅ Develop a customized strategic plan

📅 September 15 – November 3, 2026
⏰ 5:30–8:30 PM
💻 Hybrid Format

Learn more and register: https://www.progresslakeshore.org/strategic-planning-for-small-businesses/

08/25/2026

🎙️ New Episode Alert!

How do parks, trails, playgrounds, and other community amenities contribute to long-term success?

In Part 2 of "Community Experiences that Drive Success," the latest episode of Lakeshore Business Compass, we discuss the visible assets that help make communities more attractive, livable, and vibrant. From walking trails and recreational opportunities to public spaces that bring people together, these amenities play a key role in enhancing quality of life for residents.

Tune in to hear the conversation and learn why investing in community assets benefits residents, businesses, and the future of our region.

🎧 Listen here: https://seehaferpodcastslakeshorebusinesscompass.podbean.com/

📻 Presented weekly by The Chamber of Manitowoc County and Progress Lakeshore, Tuesday mornings at 10:30 a.m. on WOMT 1240 AM / 98.9 FM.

Presented weekly by Chamber of Manitowoc County and Progress Lakeshore, Tuesday mornings at 10:30 am on WOMT 1240 AM / 98.9 FM.

08/20/2026

Last Chance to Register!
🔗https://www.progresslakeshore.org/financial-training-for-small-businesses/

💡 Do you know what your business numbers are really telling you?

Take the guesswork out of your finances with Financial Training for Small Businesses from the UWGB SBDC and Progress Lakeshore!

Learn how to better understand your financials, make informed decisions, and strengthen your business for the future.

📅 Aug. 26, Sept. 2 & 9
⏰ 11 AM–1 PM
📍 In-person or virtual
💲 $50, lunch included

Get ready to feel more confident about your business finances!

👉 Learn more & register: https://www.progresslakeshore.org/entrepreneur-small-business-training-programs/financial-training-for-small-businesses/

08/18/2026

🎙️ New Episode Alert!

What role do community experiences play in driving business and personal success?

In this week's episode of Lakeshore Business Compass, a collaboration between The Chamber of Manitowoc County and Progress Lakeshore, we explore how meaningful community connections, engagement, and experiences help shape thriving organizations and stronger local relationships.

🎧 Listen to this week's episode here: https://seehaferpodcastslakeshorebusinesscompass.podbean.com/

📻 Tune in every Tuesday morning at 10:30 a.m. on WOMT 1240 AM / 98.9 FM.

Presented weekly by Chamber of Manitowoc County and Progress Lakeshore, Tuesday mornings at 10:30 am on WOMT 1240 AM / 98.9 FM.

08/12/2026

Starting a business takes more than a great idea. Learn how to build a plan that sets you up for success.

Progress Lakeshore's Entrepreneurial Training Program helps aspiring and existing business owners develop the skills and strategies needed to launch, grow, and scale a successful business.

✅ Business planning ✅ Financial fundamentals ✅ Funding preparation ✅ One-on-one consulting ✅ Networking opportunities

Classes begin September 17.

Learn more and register today: 🔗 https://www.progresslakeshore.org/entrepreneur-small-business-training-programs/entrepreneurial-training-program/



Thanks to our sponsors, U.S. Bank and UnitedOne Credit Union

Entrepreneurial Training Program Entrepreneurial Training Program Develop a Practical Plan to Start and Grow Your Business Progress Lakeshore has teamed up with UW Green Bay’s SBDC Entrepreneurial Training Program to offer you invaluable assistance in crafting a comprehensive strategy for a succes...

08/10/2026

Join us as we celebrate the Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting of Chatterbox Learning Center at Orion!

Expanding access to child care remains an important part of supporting working families and employers throughout Manitowoc County.

Our Child Care Revolving Loan Fund provides eligible providers with low-interest loans for equipment and licensing improvements, helping them start or grow their programs.

Come tour the new center, meet the team, and celebrate this exciting addition to our community!

📍 Chatterbox Learning Center at Orion
2210 Woodland Drive, Manitowoc, WI 54220

📅 August 12, 2026
🕓 4:00 PM Ribbon Cutting

➡️Register Here: https://chambermanitowoccounty.chambermaster.com/eventregistration/register?cid=9273805CGBIW44ePvV361nGMx296820951B09t7107m33x3800734p8YRN5Bf457

➡️Discover more about our Child Care Revolving Loan Fund: https://www.progresslakeshore.org/start-a-child-care-business/

08/05/2026

The best conversations often happen when great leaders gather in one room.

On September 22, Progress Lakeshore Member Investors will have the opportunity to hear from Mark Murphy, former President & CEO of the Green Bay Packers, as he shares lessons from decades of leadership in his keynote, Building A Championship Organization.

If you're planning to attend, now is the time to register.

Registration is open. Secure your spot today.

🔗 https://www.progresslakeshore.org/acceleration-breakfast/

Interested in attending but not yet an investor? Contact [email protected] to learn more.



Thank you to our event sponsors:
Ignite Sponsor, Nicolet Bank - Manitowoc
Spark Sponsor, Comcast
Boost Sponsors, Kohler Credit Union, Burger Boat Company Bank First, and Merit Financial Advisors
Launch Sponsors, BDS Fastener & Supply LLC and Seehafer News

08/04/2026

Is your business positioned for growth over the next 3 to 5 years?

Many business owners spend so much time working in their business that they don't have time to work on it. Our Strategic Planning for Small Businesses program is designed to help you step back, assess where your business is today, and create a clear roadmap for future success.

Through this hybrid program, you'll strengthen your leadership skills, set measurable goals, improve financial planning, and develop a customized strategic plan for your business.

📅 September 15 – November 3, 2026
⏰ 5:30–8:30 PM
💻 Hybrid Format: In-person at Progress Lakeshore and online sessions
👉 Learn more and register: https://www.progresslakeshore.org/strategic-planning-for-small-businesses/

Strategic Planning for Small Businesses Strategic Planning for Small Businesses Build a Clear Strategy to Grow and Scale Your Business If you’ve been running your business and are ready for the next level, this program gives you the tools, structure, and guidance to grow intentionally and sustaina...