MADISON, Wis. – Gov. Tony Evers and Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) Secretary and CEO Missy Hughes have announced the launch of the Wisconsin Investment Fund, a public-private venture capital initiative that will initially invest $100 million in startup businesses throughout the state.
At an event in Madison, Gov. Evers and Secretary Hughes unveiled the ambitious plan, joined by officials from five venture capital management firms tasked with administering the fund. This initiative marks a significant milestone in supporting Wisconsin’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, with the potential to catalyze innovation and job creation across various sectors.
The Wisconsin Investment Fund will be the biggest public-private investment in Wisconsin startups and entrepreneurs in our state’s history, offering vital resources and opportunities for businesses to thrive and grow, Gov. Evers stated. The collaborative effort aims to nurture a culture of innovation and pave the way for sustained economic growth within the state.
The fund will focus on supporting businesses in technology, healthcare, agriculture, manufacturing, and other key industries, underscoring the commitment to fostering diverse entrepreneurial talent and driving regional development. The emphasis on biohealth, with a substantial allocation of funds, underscores Wisconsin’s strategic positioning as a regional technology hub and leader in bioscience innovation.
Through strategic partnerships and a rigorous selection process, the investment fund aims to provide critical financial support to promising startups, fueling their expansion and scaling efforts. By leveraging private capital alongside public resources, the initiative seeks to maximize its impact and generate a ripple effect that amplifies business success and economic prosperity.
In line with the state’s vision for a vibrant and inclusive startup ecosystem, Wisconsin’s Investment Fund will prioritize investments in underserved communities and businesses led by diverse entrepreneurs. This commitment to equity and accessibility underscores a broader goal of creating an environment where all aspiring innovators have the opportunity to thrive and contribute to Wisconsin’s economic vibrancy.
As the venture capital firms prepare to deploy the fund’s resources into high-growth ventures, the stage is set for a new chapter in Wisconsin’s entrepreneurial journey. With a clear focus on innovation, collaboration, and sustainability, the Wisconsin Investment Fund represents a pivotal investment in the state’s future, with far-reaching implications for local businesses and communities alike.
