Long Cheng MarketPlace in Appleton, July 9, 2026. PC: Fox 11 Online
APPLETON, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — A state grant is supporting a Southeast Asian marketplace in Appleton.
The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) is awarding the Long Cheng MarketPlace a $250,000 community development investment grant Thursday.
The money will go toward the market’s $1.4 million renovation project at its location at 1804 S. Lawe Street.
The business hub of shops, restaurants and outdoor markets, is dedicated to supporting immigrant, refugee, and historically underserved entrepreneurs in Appleton.
It leases affordable space to small businesses, artisans, and food vendors, which offer culturally specific cuisine, prepared foods, specialty groceries, and retail goods. Many of the vendors are first-generation business owners who face barriers, such as limited access to capital, language challenges, and lack of traditional business networks
In addition to its economic impact, Long Cheng MarketPlace serves as a gathering place for the broader community through cultural celebrations, educational programs, business events, and a seasonal farmers market.
“Long Cheng MarketPlace was created to be more than a place to shop. It is a place where culture, entrepreneurship, and community come together,” said Maiyoua Thao, founder and CEO of Long Cheng MarketPlace. “This investment allows us to create more opportunities for small business owners, many of whom are first-generation entrepreneurs, while preserving and celebrating the cultures that make our community unique. We are building a space where businesses can grow, families can connect, and future generations can see themselves represented.”
Renovations will include exterior and interior facility improvements designed to modernize the marketplace, improve functionality for vendors and customers, increase accessibility, enhance gathering spaces, and support future business growth. Planned improvements include parking lot upgrades, building exterior enhancements, banquet and event space renovations, commercial kitchen improvements, and infrastructure updates that will improve the overall visitor experience.
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