Talent retention should be the state’s main focus in its effort to create a Wisconsin fund of funds, according to a panel of venture capital and investment experts.
MadREP President and CEO Jason Fields, Rep. Mike Kuglitsch, eCourt Reporters Founder Karen Renee and WEDC Deputy Secretary Sam Rikkers joined the Wisconsin Technology Council for a virtual event last week. The group discussed a state budget proposal by Gov. Tony Evers that would invest $100 million to create a privately matched program to provide capital for companies, start-ups, and corporations.
Such a program would promote Wisconsin businesses and provide opportunities to women-led and minority-owned businesses in the state. The budget plan could lead to economic success from groups that are currently underrepresented in investments like people of color, women, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and veterans.
“A lot of times it’s not just about the capital it’s about the opportunity to create role models in communities,” said Fields, a former state representative from Milwaukee.
Every panelist argued the program could create a larger opportunity for state revenue.
