Loans and Programs

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Supporting Business in Wausau

The City of Wausau is committed to fostering business growth and development by offering a variety of financial assistance programs tailored to meet the diverse needs of our commercial community. Below are key programs designed to support businesses in achieving their goals:

Commercial Building & Façade Renovation

Our Commercial Rehabilitation Loan Program provides low-interest loans aimed at assisting businesses with exterior and façade renovations, as well as necessary code compliance work on existing commercial buildings. This initiative enhances the aesthetic appeal and safety of our commercial properties, contributing to a vibrant business environment.

Eligibility: Owners of existing commercial buildings requiring exterior improvements or code compliance updates.
Application Process: Interested parties can review the Commercial Rehabilitation Loan Guidelines and submit the Commercial Rehabilitation Loan Application.

Revolving Loan Fund (RLF)

In partnership with MCDEVCO, the City offers the Revolving Loan Fund to provide financial resources to small businesses. This program focuses on projects that create and retain private-sector jobs, increase the tax base, and leverage private investment.

Evaluation Criteria:

Viability of the business concept
Potential for growth and job creation
Applicant's credit history and soundness of the business plan
Ability to repay from cash flow
Number and type of jobs to be created
Overall benefit to the community

Application Process: Applicants must submit a comprehensive business plan and application packet to MCDEVCO, including a commitment letter from a local financial institution for matching conventional financing.

Contact Information:

Address: 100 N 72nd Ave, Wausau, WI 54401
Email: info@mcdevco.org
Phone: (715) 298-0084

Wausau River District Support

The Wausau River District, designated as a Main Street program, is dedicated to promoting historic preservation and economic redevelopment. It offers a range of services to support local businesses:

Services Provided:

Onsite business consultations in areas such as marketing, business planning, advertising, financial analysis, and inventory control
Event programming and assistance with business recruitment and retention strategies
Coordination of onsite design assistance
Access to resource materials and programs under the State's Main Street initiative

Contact Information:

Address: 316 Scott St, Wausau, WI 54403
Email: alyson@wausauriverdistrict.org
Phone: (715) 297-1829

Local Development

Planning

The Planning Division of the Development Department plays a crucial role in shaping Wausau’s long-term growth, ensuring a well-planned, prosperous, and sustainable future for the city. Through collaboration with residents, businesses, elected officials, and community stakeholders, the division develops and implements policies, programs, and ordinances that enhance Wausau’s physical, social, and economic landscape. Please click here to learn more.

Housing Programs

Community Development Block Grant

Since 1976, the City of Wausau has been deemed an Entitlement Community and is an active participant in the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program. Over the years, these funds have been allocated to support a diverse array of local initiatives, including economic development, enhancements to infrastructure accessibility (such as sidewalks, crosswalks, streets, and street lighting), park restoration, home rehabilitation, affordable housing projects, and various non-profit agencies who assist Wausau residents. Please here to click here to learn more.

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