Economic Insights 2026

Population on the Move

Exploring the trends shaping where we live, work, and recreate

Thursday, November 5, 2026 | 8:30–10:30 AM

Merrill Expo Center | FREE Admission

Coffee & light breakfast treats will be provided

What do the numbers tell us about the future of Lincoln County & its neighbors?

Join the Lincoln County Economic Development Corporation (LCEDC) for a morning of local development updates and economic insights as we explore the trends shaping our businesses, communities, and regional economy.

The program will begin with brief updates highlighting local development activities and initiatives within Lincoln County followed by featured speaker Matt Kures, a Distinguished Community Economic Development Specialist with UW–Madison Extension (INFO), presenting current facts about our state's Population on the Move. He will provide an examination of recent demographic and economic trends and the factors influencing where people choose to live, work, and recreate.

Through a data-driven look at Lincoln County and the surrounding region, attendees will explore:

• Population & Demographics: How our population is changing, who is moving, and what the trends could mean for our future.

• Workforce & Employment: The industries, jobs, and employment opportunities shaping our regional economy.

• Community & Quality of Life: How housing, childcare, education, broadband, and other amenities influence decisions about where to live and work.

• Tourism & Recreation: How visitors contribute to our economy and the potential connections between recreation, relocation, and long-term community growth.

Discover what the data reveals about our region's strengths, challenges, and opportunities - and gain a clearer perspective on the factors influencing our economic future.

There is no charge to attend. Advanced registration is strongly encouraged to guarantee seating.

FEATURED PRESENTER

Matt Kures

Distinguished Community Economic Development Specialist

Matt Kures is a Distinguished Community Economic Development Specialist and Researcher with the Community Development Institute at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Division of Extension.  Matt works in partnership with Extension's statewide network of resources to assist communities and organizations in the areas of regional economic analysis, labor force research, and industry sector competitiveness. He has authored numerous studies on Wisconsin’s economy and makes frequent presentations to local, regional and national audiences. Matt has worked at the University of Wisconsin for more than 20 years and has his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

THANK YOU TO THESE GENEROUS EVENT SPONSORS!

PRESENTING SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

** LIMITED SPONSORSHIPS STILL AVAILABLE **

Want to become our next supporter?

Contact the LCEDC at director@lincolncountyedc.org or (715) 390-0747 for details!