Let’s work together for Wisconsin’s success.
WEDC’s mission is to enhance the economic well-being of Wisconsinites and their businesses and communities through strategic investment. But we can’t do it alone. Frequently, WEDC issues requests for proposals (RFPs) that invite organizations that share our priorities—seed funds, nonprofits, educational systems, and more—the opportunity to contribute to our mission. In doing so, these organizations simultaneously broaden their own impact and amplify our efforts to enhance life and work in Wisconsin. On this page you can find all currently open RFPs. We encourage you to check this page often to find the latest updates.
Request for Proposal:
2025 Marketplace–The Governor’s Conference of Diverse Business Development
The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) is seeking a venue to provide space for the annual 2025 MARKETPLACE conference.
Date patterns preferred are as follows:
- 2025: December
- Wednesday-Thursday pattern preferred (open to Tuesday-Wednesday pattern)
- Additional set up day before event and tear down after the event
Under the terms of any contract resulting from this RFP, WEDC may extend its one-year contract for up to an additional two years. In such event, WEDC would need a venue for the annual MARKETPLACE conference in 2026 and 2027. The date patterns indicated above for 2025 are also preferred for 2026 and 2027.
All questions regarding this RFP must be submitted in writing to Sara Beuthien at sara.beuthien@wedc.org by Jan. 8, 2025 at 4 pm CT.
Open RFP: Capital Catalyst Program
WEDC’s Capital Catalyst Program provides funding to participating seed funds across Wisconsin. This boosts their efforts by enabling them to provide early-stage funding to more entrepreneurs or invest more capital into businesses they’re already working with.
We’ve opened the application proposal process for the Capital Catalyst Loan Participation program funding under the federal State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI). Eligibility is limited to private nonprofit lenders operating loan programs with private funds. $6M in funding is available and lenders must provide a minimum 1:1 private funding match. Eligible lenders are encouraged to discuss their opportunity and detailed program requirements with WEDC staff, who will provide application materials for applicants wishing to submit a proposal. More information is available on the U.S. Treasury SSBCI and WEDC Capital Catalyst program websites.
Lenders providing capital to businesses meeting U.S. Treasury’s socially and economically disadvantaged individual (SEDI) definition are particularly encouraged to apply.
Proposals will be evaluated for eligibility and overall program fit as they are received. Proposal evaluation is non-competitive and WEDC will award contracts until available resources are committed.
