Introduction

Meet our dedicated corporate sponsor, the Entrepreneur Fund (EFund). EFund has deeply committed to the prosperity of Oneida County by sponsoring several key events, including this year's upcoming Economic Summit. Their support is essential in driving economic growth and fostering community engagement in our region.

History and Background

Founded in the late 1980s, EFund was born out of a need to diversify industry on the Iron Range. They began with two main priorities: to support entrepreneurs in starting and growing small businesses and to renew the entrepreneurial culture in the region. Over the years, EFund has grown both geographically and internally to meet the rising demand for their services.

Key Contributions

EFund's dedication to Oneida County is evident through their various contributions. They have sponsored multiple events aimed at boosting economic activity and business development. Their most recent commitment is the sponsorship of this year's Economic Summit, a pivotal event for local entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Beyond event sponsorship, EFund provides accessible capital and essential services to small businesses in Oneida County. This support helps sustain and grow local enterprises, which is vital to the health of our rural community and the regional economy. 

Impact and Success Stories

EFund's involvement has positively impacted the Oneida County community and local businesses. For instance, through their funding and support, several small businesses have been able to expand operations, create jobs, and contribute to the local economy. Their efforts have renewed the entrepreneurial spirit, fostering a more vibrant and resilient economic landscape.

One notable success story is a local café that, with EFund's assistance, was able to secure the capital needed for expansion. This growth led to job creation and provided a popular community gathering spot, enriching the social and economic fabric of Oneida County.

Looking Ahead

Moving forward, EFund has exciting plans for continued partnership with Oneida County. They aim to launch new initiatives that will further support local businesses and entrepreneurs. These future projects are expected to bring additional resources and opportunities, enhancing the overall economic vitality of our region.

As EFund's CEO and President, Shawn Wellnitz, aptly states, “Rural businesses are typically severely underbanked, and there is also a lack of services. Providing accessible capital and services for small businesses to sustain and grow is critical to the health of rural communities and the regional economy.” 

Conclusion

EFund stands as a pillar in Oneida County's economic landscape, playing a crucial role in driving growth and encouraging entrepreneurship. Their unwavering commitment benefits not only businesses but the entire community. Join us in supporting EFund and their efforts to build a thriving Oneida County. Get involved and take part in our journey towards economic growth, naturally in Oneida.