As we reflect on 2025, one thing is clear: CARW is stronger, more focused, and more influential than ever.
This past year was about sharpening our value to members, strengthening our internal foundation, expanding our statewide footprint—and intentionally re-engaging the leaders who helped build this organization.
Guided by input from our Board, members, Past Chairs, and partners, CARW leaned into what matters most for commercial real estate professionals across Wisconsin.
In 2025, CARW received National recognition from NAR as a Diamond Accredited Commercial Association – Only 28 of NAR’s 13,000 associations received this designation.
Clearer Communication. Stronger Voice.
In 2025, we focused on increasing our communications impact. Our communications became more intentional, more focused, and more aligned around CARW’s four core pillars: Data, Education, Advocacy, and Networking.
The result?
- 270,000 social media impressions
- Statewide reach doubled
- Increased visibility for members and firms across Wisconsin
- More than 1,000 members
We engaged a communications firm to refine timing and consistency, produced six podcasts, and released an updated sponsorship guide, membership brochure and branding guidelines—reinforcing CARW’s value proposition through clear branding and authentic member stories.
Education That Meets Members Where They Are
Education remained a cornerstone of CARW’s mission. In partnership with DSPS, WRA, industry leaders and others, we delivered continuing education directly to members, while evolving how learning happens at CARW.
- Lunch & Learns transitioned into larger, more dynamic All-Member Meetings highlighting thought leadership topics from adaptive reuse, data centers, and talent, as well as a commercial real estate economic outlook in January
- The Coffee with CARW series expanded, offering free, high-value programming covering topics from regional economic updates, WHEDA loan programs, and building code updates
- Many of these sessions were captured via audio and reshared through our platforms
Looking ahead: In 2026, CARW will again offer FREE commercial continuing education for members in Q3 and Q4.
Data as a Competitive Advantage
CARW continued to invest in data as a differentiator for our members through a partnership with Moody’s. With more than 153,000 properties in the system, in 2025, all paid exchange members received access to Moody’s Pro, including investment data and Reis reports. Additional members leaned into SiteLink, allowing firms to connect live data directly to their websites. We were also pleased to welcome the New Market Director, Brian Mitchell, to the market.
We also delivered Moody’s reports focused on the Madison Market and hope to have Fox Valley up and running in 2026. The retail reports have significantly improved as a result of in-market boards working together to refine data.
Growing Membership. Expanding Statewide.
In 2025, CARW achieved a major milestone: 1,000 members.
We updated membership branding and materials, hosted two events each in Madison and the Fox Valley, and continued expanding CARW’s footprint beyond Milwaukee. Regional event groups are now forming in both markets—laying the groundwork for deeper local engagement.
Leading on Advocacy
In 2025, CARW elevated infrastructure as a key driver of commercial real estate and economic growth, leading data-driven dialogue on I-794 and supporting investment in the I-94 expansion in Waukesha County. Through engagement with congressional, economic development, and civic leaders, CARW reinforced its role as a trusted, nonpartisan convener and entered 2026 positioned to help shape Wisconsin’s next phase of growth.
Investing in Leadership and the Next Generation
Strong organizations invest in people—and CARW did just that. Throughout 2025, we welcomed six new board members and updated our bylaws to expand the board size and allow third terms for committee leaders. Past Chairs were also reengaged through events and leadership opportunities spearheaded by chair Jenna Maguire.
On the talent front, CARW:
- Hosted the 2nd annual multi-university student event with IREM (UW-Milwaukee, UW-Madison, UW-Whitewater, Marquette, UW-Stout, MATC)
- Awarded a UWM scholarship through the CARW Foundation in honor of Bill Quinlivan
- Celebrated the 9th year of NextGen: 170 graduates, with more than 20 now serving on CARW or other CRE boards statewide
Stronger Operations. Greater Impact.
Behind the scenes, CARW continued modernizing its operations, advancing the transition to IMIS to support events, the member directory, reporting, and data infrastructure. Sponsorship revenue increased by 3%, with additional growth opportunities identified, while accounting services and tax support were transitioned to strengthen financial oversight. CARW also managed and distributed flood relief funds to support impacted members and communities across the state.
Leveraging External Investment
Through focused advocacy and leadership, CARW brought nearly $250,000 in NAR and affiliate grants back to Wisconsin—supporting flood relief, the I-794 economic impact study, housing development conference, leadership initiatives, and marketing efforts.
Building a Network of Trust.
Throughout the year, CARW continued to strengthen its role as a trusted convener—bringing together professionals, peers, and thought leaders to foster meaningful relationships across the state. A sold-out golf outing, a record-breaking Market Update event, and roundtable discussions featuring colleagues from across Wisconsin alongside national and regional thought leaders all reinforced the value of CARW as a place where competitors collaborate, ideas are shared, and trust is built. These moments go beyond attendance numbers—they reflect a network grounded in credibility, connection, and shared commitment to the commercial real estate industry.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The work of 2025 strengthened CARW’s foundation and clarified our direction. With sharper focus, stronger systems, deeper partnerships, and a growing statewide presence, CARW enters 2026 aligned, credible, and positioned to lead Wisconsin’s commercial real estate conversation.
Thank you to our members, leaders, and partners for being part of this momentum. The best work is still ahead.