ELLSWORTH – The Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce is proud to join chambers across the state in celebrating Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Month this September. This annual observance shines a spotlight on the vital role chambers play in strengthening communities, supporting businesses, and fostering economic growth.

The Ellsworth Chamber has a long history of championing the business community. Originally founded as the Ellsworth Commercial Club in 1957, the group legally transitioned to the Chamber of Commerce in 1989. Since then, the Chamber has grown into a trusted partner for local businesses and a driving force for community progress.

Celebrating business growth is a cornerstone of the Chamber’s work. Ribbon cuttings welcome new businesses, expansions, and milestones, while the annual Best of Ellsworth Awards in January recognize outstanding contributions from local businesses and community leaders.

The Chamber’s motto—Building a better community—is reflected in initiatives that go beyond business. From the creation of a “Welcome to Ellsworth Kit” for new residents to the flower planters in our commercial districts and holiday lights in East End Park, the Chamber helps make Ellsworth a place people are proud to call home.

In recent years, the Chamber has also played a leadership role in community visioning. The Design Ellsworth initiative in 2018 brought residents together to imagine a stronger, more vibrant future. Building on that momentum, the Chamber will launch Design Ellsworth 2.0 this fall with a quarterly Speaker Series that brings nationally recognized voices to inspire fresh ideas and opportunities for Ellsworth. The community will once again be invited to take part in shaping what comes next for Ellsworth, beginning with the first event at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, at the Ellsworth High School Cafetorium.

The Chamber also helps bring people together through events like the Summer Fun Series in East End Park, which coincides with the Ellsworth Farmers Market. Chamber member businesses and organizations host families and visitors for live music, food, and activities in a vibrant setting that highlights the charm of Ellsworth’s East End Business District and strengthens community ties.

Another signature accomplishment is the Cheese Curd Festival, which draws tens of thousands of visitors each June and delivers a multi-million-dollar economic impact to Ellsworth and the surrounding region. Beyond the dollars spent at local businesses, the festival showcases Ellsworth on a statewide and even national stage as the Cheese Curd Capital of Wisconsin. The event also creates lasting community pride, engages hundreds of local volunteers, and strengthens the visibility of Ellsworth businesses through sponsorships and vendor opportunities.

“Chambers of commerce provide critical leadership that connects businesses, government, and community,” says Kim Beebe, Executive Director of the Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce. “This month is an opportunity to reflect on what we’ve accomplished together and to celebrate the partnerships that keep Ellsworth growing stronger.”

Gov. Tony Evers has officially proclaimed September 2025 as Chamber of Commerce Month statewide, recognizing that small businesses are at the heart of communities across Wisconsin— supporting local economies, livelihoods, and the character of the places they call home.

Submitted by Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce