Wisconsin Department of Commerce: Community Economic Resources -

IMPORTANT: As of July 1st, 2011, functions once performed by the Wisconsin Department of Commerce have been moved to other state agencies and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation. The former Commerce web site will continue to exist for the next several months as resources are moved to new web site locations. We will make every attempt possible to direct our users to the new locations as web resources are moved.

Resources are available at the community level to attract new businesses and grow existing businesses.

The Division of Community Development at the Department of Commerce is a first point of contact. They can help you find the right contacts for your community's needs.

Local Economic Development corporations/organizations are committed to working with new or expanding industries in their city or county. These organizations often provide assistance in the areas of site selection, research, networking, business training, tax information and act as a liaison to local government officials and programs. You can also consult your local phone directory.

You may also wish to check with the regional planning commission in your area. Here is a map with contact information.

The Community Development Block Grant for Economic Development Revolving Loan Fund (CDBG-ED/RLF) program. The Department of Commerce grants funds to a general purpose unit of government (County) which then loans the funds to a specific business that will invest private funds and create jobs. When the business repays the loan, the County or Regional entity may retain the funds to finance additional business development projects within the County or Region.

There are resources for communities faced with either layoffs or the closing of one of their local businesses.