The City of Wabasha is committed to attracting and retaining businesses in the community. We understand that every business has a beginning, and we are willing to work with entrepreneurs and other new and expanding businesses in meeting goals and achieving their growth opportunities. The Wabasha Port Authority and Development Agency provides a variety of funding assistance options including Tax Increment Financing (T.I.F.) and various grant programs including State and USDA. For business assistance and subsidy applications visit our business assistance page.
The Wabasha area’s high quality of life is sustained by a Vibrant local economy. Small businesses continue to provide the basic needs of residents with a focus on customer service. Also, present is a diversity of commerce including local service and consumer providers, manufactures, health care, government, and a growing hospitality and tourism industry.
Wabasha employers contribute nearly 1,800 payroll jobs and $48.6 million in wages to the economy. The largest concentrations of private sector employment are in health care and social assistance, manufacturing, and retail trade. Known for its thriving tourism activity, the area boasts a number of food service, accommodation and arts and entertainment establishments. It is also home to a significant number of firms that support the business sector, from transportation and construction to financial institutions and professional service providers such as accountants. Local manufacturers supply products both to consumers and to other manufacturers and businesses. Wabasha firms are well connected to other regional markets such as Lake City, Red Wing, Winona and Rochester.
Throughout the year, the Wabasha Chamber/CVB sponsors a number of workshops, seminars, community activities and networking events designed to enhance the local economy and foster community spirit. Recently, the chamber has been designated as a Tourist Information Center by the State of Minnesota. This gives Wabasha National visibility and access to National advertising. Providing for a balance of growth, economic stability, and preservation of the core values of the community is the goal of economic development for Wabasha. (City of Wabasha 2005 Comprehensive Plan).
Please contact the Port Authority for data concerning Wabasha’s businesses.
