State Programs

Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Sustainability & Business Support

The DNR provides new avenues for businesses to grow a sustainable economy. It focuses on partnerships, collaboration, and developing innovative programs tailored to meet the needs of your business. The DNR can work with you to create a business climate that yields social, environmental and economic benefits. Tools include its Small Business Environment Assistance, Enviro-Check, and Green Tier programs.

Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC)

A public-private corporation to replace the State Department of Commerce, WEDC leads Wisconsin’s economic development efforts. Below are a number of programs and services that WEDC provides.

• Program & Grant Guidelines
• Locate in Wisconsin

Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA)

WHEDA works with developers to finance affordable rental housing, and support economic development and agriculture through our small business guarantee programs. Look to them for Housing Tax Credits, Multifamily Financing, Small Business Financial Products, and New Market Tax Credits. 

WisConomy – Job Center of Wisconsin

Post Jobs, find jobs, research business tools, economic data, business statistics, labor market information and much more at WisConomy. 

Wisconsin Historical Society

Owners of historic income-producing properties in Wisconsin may be eligible for two income tax credits that can help pay for their building’s rehabilitation. The Federal Historic Preservation Credit returns 20 percent of the cost of rehabilitating historic buildings to owners as a direct reduction of their federal income taxes. The Wisconsin Supplemental Historic Preservation Credit returns an additional 5 percent. 

Federal Programs

Small Business Administration (SBA)

SBA provides a wealth of information for small businesses including business financing, education, information, technical assistance and training, government contracting, and small business advocacy. 

Economic Development Administration

The EDA leads the federal economic development agenda by promoting innovation and competitiveness, preparing American regions for growth and success in the worldwide economy. Find program and funding opportunities, research and reports, etc. 

Community Development Financial Institutions Fund—New Market Tax Credit Program

The New Markets Tax Credit Program was established by Congress in 2000 to spur new or increased investments into operating businesses and real estate projects located in low-income communities. The program attracts investment capital to low-income communities by permitting individual and corporate investors to receive a tax credit against their Federal income tax return in exchange for making equity investments in specialized financial institutions called Community Development Entities.