Serving Oneida County Since 1989
Your Success Story Starts Here
Transform your business vision into reality. Access the resources, connections, and expertise you need to thrive in Wisconsin's Northwoods.
Since 1989
Rooted in Oneida County
- 2,200+
- Jobs Supported
- Direct tourism employment in 2024. Tourism is the county's single-largest year-round job engine.
- $58M+
- Capital Invested
- Major private-sector expansion & public infrastructure projects since 2022.
- 125+
- Businesses Supported
- Including 37 bounce-back-grant startups during COVID-19.
- 36
- Years of Service
- Established in 1989 and operating continuously ever since.
Our Mission
Your Success Is The Mission
Everything starts with helping you achieve your business goals
Rooted in Community since 1989, OCEDC is a non profit 501(c)(3) organization committed to improving the economic well-being of Oneida County through strategic partnerships, innovation, and long-term planning. Over the years, the organization has adapted to meet evolving community needs while staying true to its core goal: enhancing the quality of life for residents through thoughtful economic development.
Our Vision
Five critical focus areas
Focused on real solutions, OCEDC's work spans five critical focus areas.
- Small Business & Entrepreneur Support
- Housing Development
- Broadband Expansion
- Childcare Solutions
- Access to Capital
Your Proven Partner
Why Choose OCEDC?
You get more than an economic development partner, you gain an advocate dedicated to turning your business challenges into opportunities and your ambitious goals into measurable success.
36+ Years of Results
Since 1989, businesses like yours have trusted OCEDC to provide the expertise, connections, and resources needed to succeed in Oneida County.
You'll benefit from decades of experience helping businesses navigate challenges and seize opportunities. Join the hundreds of companies that have grown with OCEDC's support, from startups finding their first location to established businesses expanding their operations.
What You Can Expect
The standards that ensure your success
-
Integrity
Transparent processes and honest guidance you can trust
-
Innovation
Fresh solutions tailored to your unique challenges
-
Collaboration
Connections that open doors for your business
-
Excellence
Results that exceed your expectations, every time
Leadership Team
Leadership Team
Meet the people driving economic growth in Oneida County

Bristel Hamburg
Empowering local businesses through supportive resources and community spirit.
Bristel Hamburg is OCEDC's Program & Marketing Coordinator, dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and promoting community growth.

Tony Pharo
He is eager and excited to meet and help all in Oneida County. Tony is passionate about economic development and prides himself on being approachable, solution-driven, and committed to making a positive impact on economic growth in Oneida County. Don't hesitate to email Tony at [[email protected]](/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection) with any questions and ideas you have.
Tony Pharo is the Executive Director of OCEDC, committed to sustainable development and a prosperous future for Oneida County.
Volunteer leadership
Board of Directors
Directors from across Oneida County who guide our strategy and steward the work.

Andy Cordova
OCEDC Board - Treasurer

Brad Kowieski
OCEDC Board - Member at Large

Cecily Dawson
OCEDC Board - Member at Large

Collette Sorgel
OCEDC Board - Oneida County Board Member

Dan McGreaham
OCEDC Board - Member at Large

Don Theisen
OCEDC Board - Member at Large

Dr. Bobbi Fields
OCEDC Board - Member at Large

Jacqui Sharpe
OCEDC Board - Ex-Officio Member

Josh Pike
OCEDC Board - Member at Large/Three Lakes Community

Kristopher Hanus
OCEDC Board - City of Rhinelander Member

Krystal Westfahl
OCEDC Board - Ex-Officio Member

Lauren Sackett
OCEDC Board - Ex-Officio Member

Leah Van Zile
OCEDC - Board President

Luke Durkee
OCEDC Board - Member at Large

Michael Tautges
OCEDC Board - Oneida County Board Member

Patrick Reagan
OCEDC Board - City of Rhinelander Member

Russell Myers
OCEDC Board - Member at Large

Ryan McEnroe
OCEDC Board - Member at Large

Ty W. Erickson
OCEDC Board - President Elect/Minocqua Area Community Member
We don't work alone
Our partners
Regional and statewide partners who extend what we can offer a business in Oneida County.