INNOVATION PROSPERS WITH OUR STATE’S SUPPORT
Making great ideas into better realities is possible in a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem like Wisconsin’s. Built on a foundation of constant improvement and advancement, our state strengthens new business innovation through supporting startups from seed to growth stage.
We know there can be obstacles along the path from idea to commercialization. WEDC’s entrepreneurial programs are designed to further advance startup activity by supporting the full path from startup to commercialization. By working with our statewide network of partners, our initiatives spur entrepreneurial activity by providing direct capital infusions and incenting investments through angel and venture tax credits, mentoring, training and other important resources. Plus, you’ll have access to the location you want, the talent you need, and the investment in research and development that will keep your business at the forefront of innovation.
WEDC PROGRAMS
WEDC SUCCESS STORIES
Eagle Technology's international strategy has evolved as it has grown and leveraged statewide resources to develop and execute an export plan to achieve additional productivity and profitability.
V-Glass has leveraged assistance provided by Wisconsin into federal grants totaling over $1.3 million to develop its game-changing insulated window technology.
Recognizing that minority-owned businesses face unique challenges, WEDC works with minority entrepreneurs and business owners to provide financial assistance, programs, resources and networking opportunities through its Minority Business Development Program.
Since its inception in 2004, more than 2,600 entries have been received for the Governor’s Business Plan Contest, with winning companies receiving about $1.7 million in cash and services.
TOTAL IMPACT IN 2016
SEED – START – SCALE
WEDC NEWS
Four state agencies poised to launch new marketing initiative as legislation authorizing $6.8 million for effort is signed into law
WEDC and three other state agencies are moving forward with plans for a $6.8 million marketing campaign aimed at attracting talent to Wisconsin after Governor Scott Walker today signed legislation authorizing funding for the initiative. Read More
City of Kenosha receives $250,000 state grant to support development of downtown hotel
The City of Kenosha has received a $250,000 state grant to support the redevelopment of the Heritage House building into an 80-room downtown hotel. Read More
Milwaukee-area companies invited to informational session on how to bid for work during Foxconn construction
Construction-related companies in the Milwaukee area that want to learn more about becoming a vendor, subcontractor, supplier or professional service provider during the construction phase of the Foxconn project are invited to attend an informational session Thursday, April 19, in downtown Milwaukee. Read More
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“The QNBV Program played a direct role in keeping these investment dollars in Wisconsin and working to grow Wisconsin jobs.”
“The QNBV program has definitely helped Esker to attract qualified angel investors. These tax credits are looked on favorably by investors, which has resulted in a level of funding that enabled the company to hire full-time employees and purchase much-needed equipment and development tools.”
“We brought the company here because Wisconsin has a rich biotech and entrepreneurship understanding. WEDC encourages this type of critical technologies that contribute strongly to the economic development of the state. We came to Wisconsin to be part of the biotech hub they support.”
“I’d like to thank WEDC for this additional investment, which will help ensure that Whitewater continues to be a hotbed of entrepreneurial spirit. The many startups that this program has already assisted is truly amazing. We’ve supported many new innovative businesses that would not have had a chance to get started without this very timely help.”
“Working with WEDC has brought a level of support from the state of Wisconsin that I was hoping to receive when moving my startup company from Washington, D.C., to northeast Wisconsin. As my company continues to grow and create more jobs in Green Bay, I am glad to have WEDC on our side.”