Gov. Scott Walker attends "Competitive Wisconsin" meeting

MILWAUKEE (WITI) -- Governor Scott Walker delivered remarks today at the Competitive Wisconsin, Inc. meeting.  Competitive Wisconsin, Inc. was integral in the “Be Bold” and “Be Bold 2” studies which offered recommendations on how to improve Wisconsin’s competitive business edge and further economic development in the state.

“During the last two years, the state has responded to issues highlighted in the Be Bold reports to help strengthen Wisconsin’s workforce and economic outlook,” Governor Walker said.  “We are growing our economy and getting people back to work, and Competitive Wisconsin Inc.’s research will help us continue moving forward.”

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) has already implemented a number of their recommendations.  In March 2013, Governor Walker signed Wisconsin Act 9, known as the “Fast Forward” legislation.  “Be Bold 2” emphasized the need to connect workers with employers and address the lag time between when jobs become available and when the position is filled.  “Fast Forward” provides $15 million to the Department of Workforce Development over the two-year state budget for worker training and creates a New Labor Market Information System (LMIS).  The LMIS connects workers with job vacancies and helps them find training to become qualified for other jobs.

The reports also call for an increase in early stage investments and investment incentives to foster increased entrepreneurship in the state.  The 2013-15 State Budget provides funding to WEDC for both the Seed Accelerator program and the Capital Catalyst program.  Additionally, the budget provides $25 million for investment capital to ensure job creators have the resources they need to grow in Wisconsin.