Sawyer County Business Needs Survey

1. Which of the following best describes you? (you may choose more than one)

Owner/operator of a business with fewer than 25 employees

Owner/operator of a business with 25 or more employees

Chamber of commerce, business improvement district, or other business organization leader/member

Economic/community development organization representative

Professional or organization that works with businesses

2. Based on your own experience and/or your knowledge of the local business community, which issues currently present the greatest challenges for Sawyer County businesses? (Choose up to 3)

Access to business expertise or technical assistance

Need for building, facade, or facility improvements

Financing or capital for equipment purchase or upgrades

Financing or capital for building, facade, or facility improvements

Capital to help with commercial rent or lease costs

Financing to purchase commercial real estate/building

Financing or capital for purchase of an existing business

I don't believe financing or access to capital are significant needs

Matching grant — requires the business to contribute a portion of the project cost through cash and/or eligible in-kind contributions

Grant tied to training or technical assistance — requires the business to participate in training, mentoring, or other business assistance as a condition of receiving funding

Targeted grant — funding available only for specific purposes, such as equipment, building or facade improvements, technology, or startup costs

Low-interest loan — financing that must be repaid, but at an interest rate below typical commercial financing

Forgivable loan — financing that may be partially or fully forgiven if the business meets specified requirements

One-on-one business coaching or mentoring

Financial management and help preparing to obtain financing

Technology, digital tools, e-commerce, and AI assistance

Help identifying and navigating grants, loans, incentives, and other resources

Assistance growing or expanding an existing business

Business succession and ownership transition planning

Access to specialized professional expertise, such as legal, accounting, HR, or technology

Finding financing, grants, and other funding for your business

Practical uses of AI, technology, and digital tools

Growing or expanding an existing business

Selling a business and succession/transition planning

Cybersecurity and protecting your business

Opportunity for one-on-one help with my business

Opportunity to network with other local business owners and professionals

A short program - approximately one hour or less

An informal social setting with appetizers, beer, and/or wine

Ability to participate virtually when appropriate