Deb Reinbold Honored as a 2026 BizTimes Media Notable Economic Development Executive

JEFFERSON, Wis. – Deb Reinbold, President of Thrive Economic Development and Executive Director of the Jefferson County Economic Development Consortium, has been named to the 2026 BizTimes Media Notable Economic Development Executive list. Reinbold is one of nine economic development professionals from southeastern Wisconsin to receive the honor, which recognizes employees who demonstrate excellence within the field, effect change within their organization or industry, and give back through civic or community service. 

In her work to lead business investment outreach and community growth throughout Jefferson County, Reinbold and Thrive have secured more than $1.5 billion in combined capital investments from Kikkoman, Onego Bio, Aztalan Bio LLC, Nestle Purina, ABET Laminati, and V&V Supremo Foods. 

“More than $1.5 billion in capital investment doesn’t happen by chance,” said Julie Olver, Marketing Manager of Thrive Economic Development. “Deb combines vision, persistence, and a deep commitment to Jefferson County to turn opportunity into action. This honor reflects the confidence businesses, partners, and communities have in her leadership.” 

Reinbold is a key proponent of the Live Local Development Fund (LLDF), a new public-private partnership and locally controlled revolving loan program to spur local housing development. The LLDF currently has $9.5 million in available funding to incentivize public, private, and not-for-profit real estate developers to build a mixture of housing units within Jefferson County. 

“Within just the past 18 months, Deb’s efforts have secured significant capital investments that enhance our reputation as an innovator in manufacturing – particularly in the key areas of food and beverage, agribusiness, advanced manufacturing, and biohealth,” said Jefferson County Administrator Michael Luckey. “Deb is passionate about the people and potential of Jefferson County, and it shines through in every business connection she makes.”

Reinbold was also named to the BizTimes Media Wisconsin 275 in December 2025 as one of the most influential business leaders in Wisconsin.

To read Reinbold’s BizTimes Media Notable Economic Development Executive profile: https://biztimes.com/notable-economic-development-executives-deb-reinbold/  

To read Reinbold’s BizTimes Media Wisconsin 275 profile: https://biztimes.com/deb-reinbold-wisconsin275/

For more about Jefferson County: jeffersoncountywi.gov