Economic Gardening

In recognition that our existing businesses are the foundation and the future of our economy, SCDC is pleased to partner with Beth Plutchak and Sue Gleason to offer Economic Gardening services to Sauk County businesses.

Economic Gardening (EG) is an approach to helping small businesses grow. EG was developed twenty years ago in Littleton, CO and is based on the fundamental concept that entrepreneurs drive economies. We have developed a unique public/private partnership model between SCDC and our consultants to provide services to small businesses that want to grow but do not have the necessary in-house resources. Our consultants, Sue Gleason and Beth Plutchak, have both received Economic Gardening training at the Edward Lowe Foundation and have decades of experience working with businesses and public and private community organizations.

Services Offered

Innovation Strategy Analysis
This three-part process is the core service of the program. The analysis includes a two hour meeting with a company identified team, delivery of the innovation strategy report within two weeks of the meeting, and a follow-up meeting to discuss the report and make implementation decisions.

Custom Research
- Trend reports geared to your product, your industry, and your target market
- Business Intelligence: customer & competitor research, & market niche analysis
- Marketing lists

New Media Marketing Check-up
- Overview of your online footprint
- Social media recommendations
- Blog recommendation report and resources

Leadership and Management
- Management/Team/Leadership assessment and facilitated discussion

Financial Management
- Projections based on researched assumptions
- Cash Flow Analysis
- Financial Benchmarking. Compare your financial performance to like industries.

Testimonials

I found the Economic Gardening Program an invaluable tool and critical for Sauk County Industries moving forward. Self reflection with competent professional support is essential for all businesses. I appreciate the quick and thorough analysis and immediate follow up.
Sean McNevin, WI Metals, Reedsburg

Sue and Beth did their homework. I would recommend the program to any company looking for ideas, suggestions and contacts to improve their growth opportunities.
Greg Jewell, Jewell Associates Engineers, Inc., Spring Green

Your skills complemented each other and the depth of your understanding of our company and its needs was something that impressed us both.
Sue and TomHolmes, Glenville Timberwrights, Baraboo

The results gave us a great perspective on other companies we are competing against in our geographic location. That list will also help us in our sales objectives in the year to come.
Randy Winchel, DRM Industries Corp, Lake Delton

How to Participate

For a referral to the Economic Gardening program, contact SCDC Executive Director Jim Allen at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .