Financing Your Business In Wisconsin - The Wisconsin Department of Commerce has a broad range of financial assistance programs to help businesses undertake economic development. This quick reference guide identifies these programs and selected programs from other agencies.

Technology Zone Tax Credits - In June 2002, the Northeast Wisconsin Regional Economic Partnership (NEWREP) was designated as a Technology Zone.  The program made available $5 million in income tax credits for high-tech business development.  The maximum amount of tax credits a business may receive is $250,000.

WHEDA – The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Association helps borrowers obtain financing on favorable terms to start-up, acquire or expand a small business. They have several programs geared towards business.

Wisconsin Business Development Finance Corporation - Wisconsin Business Development Finance Corporation is a private, not-for-profit corporation created in 1981 to assist Wisconsin businesses gain access to capital, create jobs and promote community development.

Small Business Administration - Under the SBA's loan-guarantee programs, the borrower applies to a lending institution, not the SBA. The lender applies to the SBA for a loan guaranty.  For a list of lenders please visit: http://www.sba.gov/financing/basics/lenders.html.

Revolving Loan Funds – Revolving Loan Funds are a low interest loan program given to qualified applicants. One full time equivalency must be created or retained for every $20,000 borrowed.  The annual interest rate is only 4% and can be used for real estate, equipment, or working capital.

Early Planning Grant (EPG) Program – The EPG Program from the Wisconsin Department of Commerce is designed to help individuals interested in starting or expanding a business in one of several targeted industries by providing funding for professional consulting services for development of a comprehensive business plan.  Call Area Development Manager Dennis Russell at (920) 498-6302.

Entrepreneurial Training Grant (ETG) Program – Commerce can provide applicants with a grant to help cover a portion of the cost of attending Small Business Development Center's (SBDC) new Entrepreneurial Training Course. Call Dick Krueger at the Small Business Development Center in Oshkosh at (920) 424-1453/800-232-8939 for more information.