Small Business Grants in Wisconsin
Wisconsin's manufacturing heritage, strong university system, and diverse economy provide a solid foundation for small business growth. The state has invested in transforming its economy to include biotechnology, information technology, and advanced manufacturing alongside its traditional strengths in dairy, agriculture, and industrial production.
Economic Overview
Wisconsin has approximately 460,000 small businesses employing over 1.1 million workers. The economy spans manufacturing (engines, machinery, food processing), agriculture (dairy, cranberries), healthcare, technology, and financial services. Milwaukee and Madison are the primary economic centers — Madison has a particularly strong startup ecosystem connected to the University of Wisconsin. Wisconsin's cost of living is moderate, and the workforce is highly skilled in manufacturing and engineering.
State Grant Programs
The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) offers the Business Opportunity Loan Fund, Workforce Training Grants, and the Qualified New Business Venture (QNBV) certification that enables angel and venture investors to claim tax credits. The Wisconsin SBDC has offices across the state. The Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation (WARF) supports technology commercialization from UW-Madison research. gener8tor is a nationally recognized accelerator based in Wisconsin.
How to Apply
Visit WEDC website and contact the Wisconsin SBDC. Tech startups should connect with gener8tor and WARF. Manufacturers should explore the Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership (WMEP). Register at SAM.gov for federal grants.
Featured Opportunities17 Active
Award Amount
$4,000 - $4,000
NASE Growth Grant 2025
Award Amount
$10,000 - $25,000
Amber Grant for Women
Award Amount
$275,000 - $275,000
America's Seed Fund (SBIR Phase I)
Award Amount
$10,000 - $10,000
FedEx Entrepreneur Fund (Boost Camp)
Award Amount
$10,000 - $500,000
Rural Business Development Grants
Award Amount
$5,000 - $5,000
American Express Backing Small Business
Award Amount
$1,000 - $1,000
Skip Monthly Business Grants
Award Amount
$5,000 - $5,000
IFundWomen Universal Grant
Award Amount
$10,000 - $10,000
Verizon Small Business Digital Ready
Award Amount
$10,000 - $10,000
Venmo Small Business Grant
Award Amount
$10,000 - $10,000
LegalZoom Fast Break for Small Business
Award Amount
$30,000 - $100,000
Cartier Women's Initiative
Award Amount
$50,000 - $50,000
EmpowHer Grant
Award Amount
$20,000 - $20,000
Amex Shop Small Grants
Award Amount
$20,000 - $20,000
Intuit Small Business Hero
Award Amount
$10,000 - $10,000
Skip's $10k Kickoff Grant
Frequently Asked Questions
What grants does Wisconsin offer?▼
Wisconsin offers WEDC Business Opportunity Loans, Workforce Training Grants, QNBV tax credit certification, WARF technology commercialization support, gener8tor accelerator programs, and federal SBIR/STTR and USDA programs.
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