Gov. Evers, WEDC Announce $229 Million in Wisconsin Investments for FY2026

MADISON — Gov. Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) announced Thursday that the agency invested $229 million in projects across 67 of Wisconsin’s 72 counties during fiscal year 2026, supporting businesses, nonprofits, housing, child care, workforce initiatives, downtown development, and economic growth throughout the state.

According to the governor’s office, the investments are intended to help communities recruit and retain workers, support entrepreneurs and startups, strengthen Main Streets, expand affordable housing and child care options, and promote Wisconsin businesses in global markets.

Gov. Evers said investments in businesses and communities help strengthen Wisconsin’s long-term economy by supporting workforce development, affordable housing, and business expansion...

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Leo's notes: WEDC’s FY2026 investments reinforce that workforce housing is increasingly being treated as a cornerstone of Wisconsin’s economic development strategy rather than a standalone housing issue. By pairing housing investments with workforce, infrastructure, and business development initiatives, the state is recognizing that communities compete for talent by offering both quality jobs and attainable places to live. Coordinated investment across these sectors is becoming a defining strategy for long-term economic growth—a model to watch...