Rural Tribal project will expand health care, telehealth, workforce development and cultural resources in Forest County
MADISON, WI, November 3, 2026 – Forward Community Investments (FCI) is pleased to announce the recent closing of a $15 million New Markets Tax Credit (NMTC) investment supporting the expansion and renovation of the Sokaogon Chippewa Community Health Clinic near Crandon, Wisconsin. FCI’s investment is part of a $31 million NMTC financing package that will help create a 40,053-square-foot community facility serving Tribal members and residents throughout the surrounding rural region.
The project will add approximately 26,000 square feet and renovate 14,053 square feet of existing space. The expanded clinic will increase capacity for primary care, specialty care, behavioral and mental health services, and telemedicine, including partnerships with University of Wisconsin entities and health care providers. Modern clinical and telehealth infrastructure will help reduce barriers created by distance, transportation limitations and the shortage of nearby health care options in rural north-central Wisconsin.
The clinic serves both Tribal and non-Tribal patients across Forest County and neighboring communities. The Sokaogon Chippewa Community has 1,274 Tribal members within its service area, and 60% of households in the Community earn 80% or less of household median income. By expanding local access to high-quality, affordable care, the project is expected to support improved health outcomes and strengthen the region’s ability to attract and retain health care professionals.
“Closing this $15 million investment is a significant milestone for FCI and, more importantly, an investment in the long-term health and vitality of the Sokaogon Chippewa Community and the surrounding region. The New Markets Tax Credit Program makes it possible to bring flexible capital to projects of this scale, helping communities expand essential care, create quality jobs and build infrastructure that will serve families for generations.” | Rob Beach, Chief Operating Officer, Forward Community Investments
Beyond the clinic, the project will include flexible space for workforce development, distance learning, computer access and broadband-supported services. A new Tribal museum will provide a place for Tribal members and the public to learn about Sokaogon Chippewa history and culture. The purpose-built museum space will also enable the Community to preserve and reclaim culturally significant artifacts currently held by institutions elsewhere in the United States and Canada.
The project is expected to retain approximately 62 full-time jobs and create 30 new full-time positions over the next three years. Full project completion is anticipated in mid-year 2027.
The $31 million NMTC financing package brought together Old National Bank as investor and Forward Community Investments, Bremer CDE, Oweesta Corporation and Bay Bank as community development entities. Hope Community Capital served as project consultant, and The Samuels Group is the project’s architect and general contractor.
Organizations interested in NMTC financing through Forward Community Investments are encouraged to visit www.forwardci.org/new-markets.
About Forward Community Investments
Forward Community Investments (FCI) is a statewide Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) committed to igniting the future of nonprofits, real estate entrepreneurs, and small business owners by providing financial support that allows them to thrive. Our work investing in the communities and neighborhoods that need it most promotes a future where all Wisconsin residents have access to the resources, partnerships, and capital needed to build a prosperous, self-sustaining future. For more information about FCI, visit www.forwardci.org.