WEDC leads economic development efforts for the state by providing resources, operational support and financial assistance to companies, partners and communities in Wisconsin. Working with more than 600 partners across the state, including regional economic development organizations, academic institutions and industry clusters, WEDC develops and delivers solutions that help businesses, communities and people maximize their potential In Wisconsin®.
Mission
To advance and maximize opportunities in Wisconsin for businesses, communities and people to thrive in a globally competitive environment.
Vision
WEDC focuses on five key Catalysts of Growth, which form the basis of our Strategic Pillars, to help activate and accelerate economic opportunity in Wisconsin.
Strategic Economic Competitiveness
Through programs, policies and initiatives that foster an environment of innovation and success, we are advancing industry clusters and developing the next generation of skilled workers in Wisconsin. We are also working to engage in and build lasting relationships with our young people eager to take advantage of the opportunities Wisconsin offers.
Business Development
We leverage Wisconsin’s economic assets, as well as our statewide partners in education, research and industry, to support startups, fuel business growth, help companies tap global markets and attract new and expanding businesses to our state.
Community and Economic Opportunity
Our work helps improve the quality of life in Wisconsin communities. We help create opportunities for economic activity by investing in our urban centers, redeveloping idle industrial sites, encouraging minority business growth, and supporting downtown revitalization in our small and midsize communities.
Brand Development and Strategy
From our talented workforce to the companies we assist, Wisconsin is a compelling place to live and work. Our outreach highlights our state strengths to maintain and enhance our consistently impressive rankings for business climate, productivity and personal fulfillment.
Operational and Fiscal Excellence
Our programs are designed to retain and attract businesses, create jobs and encourage economic growth. We take that charge seriously with unwavering attention to achieving measurable outcomes and a commitment to accountability.
KEY STRATEGIC PARTNERS
In order to best foster in a community of growth and development, WEDC invests in key strategic partners with specialized skills and a proven track record of success.
WEDC SUCCESS STORIES
Milwaukee's The Wagner Companies has saved $350,000 annually on reduced energy usage and waste disposal fees since it participated in the first round of the Profitable Sustainability Initiative.
PreventionGenetics saw opportunity in the emerging markets of South America. With that in mind, company leaders began seeking assistance from WEDC to develop an export strategy.
With assistance from WEDC, Gamber-Johnson has become a leading supplier of rugged computer mounting systems and vehicle mounting components used in consumer, law enforcement and military applications.
After Dr. Aoy Tomita-Mitchell and Dr. Michael E. Mitchell sold their Silicon Valley-based startup to pharmaceutical giant Roche, they decided their next venture needed to begin in Wisconsin.
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