Bou Bus Develop

Business Development

Thinking of starting a business in Boulder Junction? We are certain that you will have many questions before making your decision and we are here to help. If we don’t have the answer, we will direct you to someone who does.

Boulder Junction, the Musky Capital of the World®, located in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, is a small tourist community with a big heart. The economy of Boulder Junction is largely based on the tourism and service sectors. Accommodations, restaurants, service businesses, and specialty shops predominate.

The citizens of Boulder Junction are hard-working, family- and community-oriented individuals interested in working together to make Boulder Junction a place where we can all live, work, and play while enjoying a thriving economy and high quality of life in a natural, serene setting.

Below is more information about our community. Please contact the Boulder Junction Chamber of Commerce or one of our town board members with additional questions you may have.

Town of Boulder Junction Statistics:

  • Year-round Population: 940+
  • Summer Population: 7,500 (estimated)
  • Fifth largest town in Vilas County (out of 12)
  • Dwellings: 376 year-round/ 806 seasonal
  • Land Ownership:
    • Private 12.2%
    • State Land 63%
    • State Water 24.8%
  • Land Size: 82 square miles
  • Water Size: 18 square miles
  • Local Roads: 90.2 miles When driving through the business district of Boulder Junction, you will not see most of the dwellings mentioned above. Most of our residents do not live in a “neighborhood” like you would find in the city. Their homes are hidden among the many acres of woods and waters throughout Boulder Junction.

Boulder Junction Tourism Statistics:

Boulder Junction businesses rely on tourism for income. During our peak vacationing time, the average population of Boulder Junction increases by almost 650%! The best way for us to measure the amount of visitors to our area throughout the year is through room tax collections. Accommodations in Boulder Junction are required to collect room tax from their customers and turn it over to the Town of Boulder Junction every quarter. Room tax collections are primarily used by the Boulder Junction Chamber of Commerce to market the area.

Business Opportunities:

Are you interested in opening a business in Boulder Junction but are not sure what? Here are some ideas of needed businesses that we have been given by other business owners, residents, or visitors.

  • Experience-focused services (tours, classes, indoor activities)
  • Unique Trades (woodworking, blacksmith, artists of all kinds)
  • Pet supplies and pet care (grooming and boarding)
  • Candy Store
  • Resale Shop
  • Wellness Center
  • Kids Toys
  • Gourmet Foods

These are just a few suggestions. The options are endless. We welcome your ideas and experiences.

Available Business Locations:

Commercial property in Boulder Junction may be available by rental agreements or for purchase. Costs will vary depending on the business, the property, and the location. If you are looking to start a business and rent the space, most rental properties in the Boulder Junction business district will cost $9 to $12 per square foot. Many owners do offer incentives for new tenants. If you are looking to purchase a location for your business, it is probably best that you speak with one of our knowledgeable real estate agents who will be able to assist you with finding the perfect setting for your business venture. In addition to having access to all businesses that may be for sale in the Boulder Junction area, our agents will have contact information for rental property owners.

Financial Assistance:

Boulder Junction is fortunate to have the convenience of an Associated Bank branch right in town. Associated Bank is a Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender.

Boulder Junction Chamber of Commerce:

The Boulder Junction Chamber of Commerce is committed to promoting a healthy and vibrant community through business support and advancement while maintaining respect for the area’s resources and recreational environment. Our goal is to bring people to Boulder Junction who will, in turn, spend money at your business. We also offer many networking opportunities so that you can meet and get to know others in our supportive and caring business community. Information on the benefits of the Boulder Junction Chamber of Commerce can be found here.

Owning and operating a business is hard work. We are here to support you and your dream. We welcome you with open arms into our community. What more do you need to know? Let us help make your dream a reality.

Useful Links:

  • Town of Boulder Junction – The official site of the Town of Boulder Junction, an online resource for the residents and visitors of Boulder Junction.
    • Dennis Reuss, Town Chairman, Town of Boulder Junction, (715)385-2220
    • Laura Bertch, Town Supervisor, Town of Boulder Junction,
    • Jim Galloway, Town Supervisor, Town of Boulder Junction,
  • Vilas County Economic Development Corporation – Provide innovative leadership and regional infrastructure to: improve the economic well-being of businesses, communities, and residents; promote creation and retention of viable businesses and quality jobs; and provide increased opportunities for education strengthening workforce development.
  • Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation – The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) is committed to creating and maintaining a business climate that allows you to maximize your potential. Working with more than 600 statewide partners, including regional economic development organizations, academic institutions, and industry groups, we’re enhancing our communities, supporting business development, advancing industry innovation, tapping global markets, and developing a talented workforce to help Wisconsin realize its full economic potential.
  • State of Wisconsin Business Services – To help you obtain the list of state permits or licenses your business may need before you get started.
  • Wisconsin Department of Tourism – Information on state marketing, grants, and research efforts