The grant fund was assembled by BioForward, and includes funds provided by Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation and Marshfield Clinic Applied Sciences. Scholarship recipients are small biotechnology businesses that demonstrate a strategic approach to the Business Forum, and have a financial need.

“It is extremely important for these companies to connect with potential customers and partners from around the world,” said Bryan Renk, executive director of BioForward. “In a tough funding environment we are pleased to be able to partner with WEDC and Marshfield Clinic to fund these promising Wisconsin companies and their participation in the BIO Business forum.”

The scholarship recipients are:

Centrose– preclinical stage company developing a novel antibody-drug conjugation technology that targets a wide variety of diseased cells.

DNASTAR– company focused primarily on developing and commercializing software for scientists working with DNA sequence analysis.

InvivoSciences– contract research organization providing engineered tissue-based phenotypic compound screening services for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, biotech, food, and chemical companies.

NeoClone– company designing and manufacturing monoclonal antibodies, for their ability to seek out and bind to a specific target such as a virus, toxin, bacterium or tumor cell.

Primorigen– company developing innovative high-throughput protein and cell-based assay systems and novel stem cell biology research products.

Quintessence Biosciences – private, clinical stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel anti-cancer compounds based on patented EVade™ Ribonuclease technology.

ioGenetics– design and discovery biotechnology company whose mission is to provide novel solutions for infectious diseases.

Scarab Genomics – company that established a unique patented approach for developing E.coli strains for the production of DNA and protein used in therapeutic or industrial applications

Stratatech– regenerative medicine company focused on the commercialization of skin substitute products to treat severe burns, non-healing ulcers, and other complex skin defects.

• GolfPipeline, Inc., Menomonee Falls
• Imaging Biometrics, LLC, Elm Grove
• NorthStar Medical Radioisotopes, LLC, Madison
• Elaion Biosciences, Inc., Madison
• 1Engineering & Manufacturing, LLC, Neenah
• Keystone Insights, LLC, Menomonee Falls
• Renwig Custom, LLC, Whitewater
• Somna Theraputics, LLC, Mequon

The QNBV status makes investors in the company eligible for a 25 percent tax credit on the amount they invest in the business. The WEDC said the QNBV program and new incentives for investment in these companies will accelerate their potential for growth and job creation inWisconsin. 

About GolfPipeline, Inc.
Golf Pipeline is an internet-based startup focused on providing value-added reservations services and social network connections for the golf industry. The company has created a web portal that allows golfers to connect to one another, find courses with desired features, make reservations, invite fellow golfers and manage those reservations electronically, and track scores.  The overall concept borrows features from social networking sites, travel reservation sites, restaurant reservation sites, and other successful internet service models.  The company officially launched their web portal for tee time reservations and score tracking as of April 1^st. 

About Imaging Biometrics, LLC
Imaging Biometrics develops medical scan image processing technology. The company’s technology can detect and image the increased blood flow and blood volume associated with tumor development.  The software is designed to interface as an add-on to existing MRI and CT hardware and should be readily incorporated into the existing workflow.  Imaging Biometrics is playing an important role in the early diagnosis and optimization of treatment planning for patients with brain disorders. 

About NorthStar Medical Radioisotopes, LLC
NorthStar Medical Radioisotopes provides a new technology source of radioactive isotopes to the medical imaging and a developing therapeutic market.  North Star patented technology and material produces a stable version of isotopes, an alternative that is supposedly a safe option to the current used Uranium which is unstable, poses a significant proliferation risk and is also difficult to dispose. 

About Elaion Biosciences, Inc.
Elaion Biosciences was founded in 2010 to commercialize Immiscible Filtration Assisted by Surface Tension technology which provides a unique way to purify DNA, RNA, protein and cells. The technology can be used to solve or improve the performance and cost of clinical diagnostics. 

About 1Engineering & Manufacturing, LLC
1Engineering & Manufacturing designs patented engineering solutions for customers in the subsea oil and gas market. 1Engineering & Manufacturing’s current product line includes saturation diving systems, launch and recovering systems, remote operated vehicle, pressure vessels and industrial skid packages.  Through the use of new 1Engineering & Manufacturing productions, the company will be able to increase efficiency in the oil extraction process and improve transportation and refining.

About Keystone Insights, LLC
Keystone Insights is a software solutions company that combines web-based and mobile device access with cloud server technology, allowing individual users to gain access to powerful tools without the need for expensive IT support.  Its first product launch, DocWrite 1.0, offers fully secured, HIPAA supported creation and access of dictation and transcription services, which is available on the Apple App Store. The company has developed an updated version of this app which allows users to record conversations and notes, upload the dictation to a secure web-based storage area, and have that dictation transcribed into text.

About Renwig Custom, LLC
Renwig Custom is a boutique amplifier builder specializing in analog tube amplifiers for professional, hobbyist and semi-professional guitarists and bassists.  The company’s patent pending product is the Robotic Amplifier which allows the guitarist/bassist to manipulate the tone from their amp with a foot switch instead of using digital processing technology, which degrades sound quality.

About Somna Theraputics, LLC
Somna Theraputics is a medical technology company focusing on patients suffering from extraesophageal reflux disease and the numerous chronic symptoms to which it is associated.  The company has invented a device, called Reza-Band, which prevents reflux of stomach contents into the throat and airways. This gives patients the option to be relieved of symptoms without medicine or surgery. The development of the product in still in development, but the band has a patent pending.

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WISCONSIN ADDS 23,321 JOBS IN 2011 

Following up from Paul Jadin’s discussion and Department of Revenue video during the WEDC employee meeting on May 15, the the actual jobs data for 2011 is consistent with the state unemployment rate and the drop in unemployment insurance claims. DWD submits the actual jobs data based on 160,000 Wisconsin employer submissions to BLS every quarter.  However, since it takes time to accurately analyze all employer data, the submission lags behind the quarter being reported by roughly five months.

• Click here to read the release from DWD.
• Click here to view the DOR video presentation on job stats.

NINE SMALL BUSINESSES AWARDS SCHOLARSHIPS FOR BIO CONVENTION Nine Wisconsin biotechnology companies have been awarded scholarships to support attending the Biotechnology Industry Organization’s (BIO) International Convention in Boston, MA. June 18-21, 2012. All recipients plan to participate in BIO’s one-on-one partnering with potential customers from around

The grant fund was assembled by BioForward, and includes funds provided by Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation and Marshfield Clinic Applied Sciences.

WEDC International Directors Meet Governor Walker
WEDC Internationa Directors, Paul Swenson (China), Claudia Tomaselli (Brazil) and Nancy Ward (Canada) had the chance to meet Gov. Walker at the International Trade Conference in Milwaukee. The directors attended the conference providing one-on-one assistance with Wisconsin businesses. (L-R in photo: Ben Brancel-DATCP Secretary, Paul Swenson, Gov. Scott Walker, Claudia Tomaselli, Nancy Ward, Paul Jadin-WEDC CEO/Secretary)

PTO – QUICK REFERENCE
PTO can be used however the employee chooses (vacation, personal days, sick days, bereavement, leave of absence, etc.).

• Salaried employees are required to use PTO for sick days.
• Hourly employees have the choice to use PTO or to not record any hours for sick days.
• PTO can only be used in 4 hour increments (half-day or full-day). Employees with scheduling concerns are encouraged to talk to their supervisor or Human Resources.
• At the end of the calendar year, up to 240 hours can be rolled-over into the next calendar year. Any PTO above 240 hours will be forfeited.
• An ADP Time Off Request should be submitted to managers at least 2 weeks before the PTO begins (plan/event permitting).
• PTO that cannot be pre-requested should be approved with the employee’s immediate supervisor and entered directly onto the employee’s timecard for the current pay-period.
• Managers: Near the end of the pay period, if employees use last-minute PTO for unplanned absences, please make sure the PTO hours are coded on the employee timecard. Contact Human Resources for assistance, if needed.
• Additional PTO is earned beginning the 5th and 15th years of full-time WEDC employment.
• WEDC observed Holidays including the “Birthday Holiday” should NOT be coded on the timecard as PTO, but instead as HOLIDAY.

Please contact Human Resources with any questions.

LUNCH AND LEARN
WEDC will be hosting a series of Lunch and Learns, with programs are designed for employees to attend optional lunch hour informational sessions in various topic areas related to skills, benefits, wellness, and development. Watch your e-mail to RSVP to these events.

Upcoming Lunch and Learns – Let’s Talk Learning:

Public Speaking 101
June 20th 11:30 AM 
First Floor Conference Room

State of Wisconsin Investment Board and the Wisconsin Retirement System
July 11th 11:30AM
First Floor Conference Room

Great West Retirement and the Wisconsin Deferred Compensation Program
August 9th 11:45 AM (with individual sessions available after the presentation)
First Floor Conference Room

GOOD NEWS FOR WISCONSIN!
Wisconsin moved up four spots to 20th in the Chief Executive magazine 2012 survey of the “Best and Worst States for Business.” Last year, Wisconsin jumped from 41st to 24th. Wisconsin’s climb can be partly attributed to the visibility and work of WEDC in changing the attitude and climate in Wisconsin.

• Click here to read the release
• Click here to read Paul Jadin’s statement
• Click here to read the story

“Wisconsin continues to be a leader in providing services to the medical industry. Fi-Med’s expansion will allow the company to provide its financial expertise to more healthcare providers across the country,” said Governor Scott Walker.

Fi-Med Management is a financial management firm providing comprehensive claims, coding, billing, lockbox and financial reporting services to the medical industry. Fi-Med’s headquarters is Wauwatosa and they also have operations in California and Virginia. The company wants to be first to market with their software that can save millions of dollars for medical facilities and doctors’ clinics.

The five-year loan by WEDC will be used for working capital.

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“We’re excited Jensen Metal Products has made a commitment to significantly expand its workforce,” said Governor Scott Walker.  “My administration remains focused on helping the private sector create jobs for Wisconsin families.”

Jensen Metal Products is planning an expansion of its manufacturing capacity by installing new equipment and expanding the manufacturing facility in Franksville, and renovating existing storage space in Racine and converting it to manufacturing floor space.

Jensen Metal Products is a manufacturer of fabricated and painted component metal products.  Additionally, Jensen Metal Products sells the Real Flame brand name ventless fireplaces and related products.

The tax credits will be distributed annually in direct relation to the number of jobs retained and new, full-time positions created and filled over a three-year period. 

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“This is a tremendous job creation investment being made by Plexus Corp. with the support of the state and city of Neenah,” said Governor Scott Walker. “The decision by Plexus to do this major expansion and cement its operations in Neenah reflects the positive direction Wisconsin is heading.”

Plexus Corp.’s proposed 410,000 square foot manufacturing facility will be the showcase for U.S. operations and provide for the increased space needed for future manufacturing requirements. The facility will cement the Fox Cities as the company’s Americas Epicenter. 

Plexus Corp. is a global leader in the highly competitive electronic manufacturing services (EMS) industry.  Plexus integrates innovative product conceptualization, design, commercialization, manufacturing, fulfillment and sustaining services for its customers in global markets.

The tax credits will be distributed annually in direct relation to the number of jobs retained, new, full-time positions created and filled, and capital investment over a seven-year period.

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• GolfPipeline, Inc., Menomonee Falls
• Imaging Biometrics, LLC, Elm Grove
• NorthStar Medical Radioisotopes, LLC, Madison
• Elaion Biosciences, Inc., Madison
• 1Engineering & Manufacturing, LLC, Neenah
• Keystone Insights, LLC, Menomonee Falls
• Renwig Custom, LLC, Whitewater
• Somna Theraputics, LLC, Mequon

Fi-Med expands software services in Wauwatosa
Fi-Med Management in Wauwatosa, is planning an expansion of its medical software services, creating up to 145 jobs as the company takes advantage of new market opportunities. The company is eligible for a $750,000 loan through WEDC.

Jensen Metal Products expands in Racine
Jensen Metal Products, Inc., Racine, is proposing to expand its manufacturing operation, creating up to 39 new jobs in Racine and Franksville. The company is eligible for $150,000 in tax credits through WEDC.

Plexus Corp. expands in Neenah
Plexus Corp., Neenah, is planning to create up to 350 jobs related to the company’s decision to establish a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Neenah. The company is eligible for $15 million in enterprise zone tax credits through WEDC.

LDV, Inc. expands in Burlington
LDV, Inc, is planning to add up to 17 new jobs through an expansion of its manufacturing capacity. The company is eligible for $107,500 in tax credits WEDC to facilitate the company’s expansion and planned job growth. LDV is a specialty vehicle manufacturer, specializing in emergency response and commercial vehicle interiors and upfits. To accommodate increased sales for LDV’s specialty product lines, the company is proposing to expand and equip its facility in Burlington.

Mod Tech Industries Expands in Shawano
Mod Tech Industries, Shawano, is eligible for $350,000 tax credits through WEDC, creating up to 48 jobs related to the company’s expansion. (5/1)

“Wisconsin manufacturers, like LDV, Inc., continue to show their confidence in Wisconsin’s economy by investing in their businesses to take advantage of new market opportunities,” said Governor Scott Walker.  “Manufacturing is a key component of Wisconsin’s economy that we have focused on growing since taking office.”

LDV is a specialty vehicle manufacturer, specializing in emergency response and commercial vehicle interiors and upfits. To accommodate increased sales for LDV’s specialty product lines, the company is proposing to expand and equip its facility in Burlington. 

The tax credits will be distributed annually in direct relation to the number of jobs retained and new, full-time positions created and filled over a three-year period.

Since Governor Walker took office, Wisconsin ranks 8^th in total manufacturing jobs created, with 14,400 new jobs.  In 2012, Wisconsin ranks 6^th in total manufacturing jobs created, with 6,500 new jobs.

Governor Walker proclaimed the week of May 6-12 as Manufacturing Awareness Week to highlight how critical the industry is to the state’s economy.  The manufacturing industry provides family-supporting jobs to 450,000 people in Wisconsin. 

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Governor/WEDC present Export Awards
Governor Scott Walker and WECC CEO Paul Jadin presented the Governor’s Export Award to BouMatic, EMTEQ and Hatco during the Wisconsin International Trade Conference in Milwaukee Tuesday. (5/8)

State program helps veterans start businesses
Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
The Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. will put $150,000 into a new fund aimed at seeding start-up companies run by military veterans and helping them to hit the ground running. (5/6)

Oak Creek – Delphi redevelopment includes WEDC Brownfield Grant
Oak Creek used the Drexel Interchange groundbreaking Friday to show off refined plans for the Delphi redevelopment project and announce a major grant to pay for concrete removal at the site. This includes $1.15 million Brownfield grant from WEDC to remove the concrete at the site. Officials said it will greatly reduce clean-up costs and aid in redevelopment. (5/5)

WEDC MARKETING CAMPAIGN WORK BEGINS
This column reprinted from The Business Journal describes WEDC’s work it has started with Nelson Schmidt Inc. of Milwaukee to plan and create a marketing strategy for Wisconsin. (5/4)

Read the entire story by Kathleen Gallagher of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

The fund will be managed by Veteran Entrepreneurial Transfer Inc., a Milwaukee nonprofit business incubator/accelerator for U.S. Veterans, providing free services to qualifying veterans who are looking to start or restart their own businesses. VETransfer’s executive management team provides the business training and knowledge veterans need in order to create a sustainable and profitable business.