Connect Communities Gays Mills

In 2023 Gays Mills was named a “Connect Community” by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). The program, launched in 2013, is designed to support and complement the Wisconsin Main Street Program, which has supported downtown community development since 1987. We are a non-profit organization that is all volunteer led.

With the assistance and mentorship of Prosperity Southwest Wisconsin, our Connect Communities Gays Mills is growing and enhancing our community for businesses, residents and the many visitors to our Village and surrounding area. Driftless Development, INC. acts as the fiscal agent for Connect Communities Gays Mills.

Projects and Accomplishments:

  • Community Impact Finalist in the 2024 Community and Economic Development Awards (CEDA)
  • Thrive WI 2 Year Planning Grant (Uptown Development) from the WI Office of Rural Prosperity
  • Small Business Start-Up Space Program
  • Village Wide Rummage Sale (Mother’s Day weekend in May)
  • Alice in Dairyland Finals Co-Host (May 16-18, 2025)
  • Second Sunday Market (June-Oct)
  • Community Clean Up Day (September)
  • AppleFest Info Booth & Informational Booths (last full weekend in September)
  • AppleFest Free Activities for Families
  • Bike Share (coming soon)
  • Christmas Market in the Mercantile
  • Grilled Cheese Sandwich Fundraisers
  • Workshops and Presentations
  • Partnership with local groups

Gays Mills historic downtown, uptown, our business district, surrounding businesses and attractions, all play an important role in our community and in Wisconsin’s overall economy, functioning not only as prominent employment and business centers, but often standing as the historic foundations of our community. These are the places where people congregate to do business, attend events, or simply enjoy contact with their neighbors. Adding vitality to an area improves the quality of life for residents and visitors.  But successful communities don’t just happen, they need to be planned and nurtured. Their prosperity requires interest and action from stakeholders, like you, who share a vision for our community.

Feel free to contact us with any questions or ideas you may have about Gays Mills’ future.

Jimmy Richter, Co-Director
Martha Querin-Schultz, Co-Director
Email: CCGaysMills@gmail.com

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