You may have heard of the FreshTech Innovation District in Sheboygan and wondered what exactly it is. We spoke with Nick O’Brien, the Director of Innovation & Engagement at the Innovation District, who explained that there are two aspects to the District, the first of which is the physical aspect. According to O’Brien, that portion is mainly being lead by the City of Sheboygan and the Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation. O’Brien meanwhile is in charge of the “software” aspect of the district which includes “the stuff that isn’t related to the buildings…but rather the activity that will happen inside the buildings.”
As for what an Innovation District does, O’Brien explained to SeehaferNews.com, that they are “preparing the community for the changing face of the economy, which is going more digital…rather than your manufacturing-based businesses.” He did say that manufacturing is still very important, but there is a bigger focus on the digital aspect of the business right now.
O’Brien went on to explain that this year, he will be focusing on making people want to work in Sheboygan by both retaining the students and young adults in the area, as well as attracting individuals outside the area to come to the Lakeshore. One way he hopes to retain some of those students is by implementing a student-run business program. This type of program has been utilized to great success in other places with Innovation Districts, and O’Brien believes it can be a great way to get the students excited to work and live in Sheboygan County.
