Economic development

​Wisconsin's economic vitality and its ability to remain competitive depend on the efficient transport of people and goods to the nation and the world. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) provides a number of benefits to Wisconsin communities and businesses in the area of economic development. Some of these services act directly as a catalyst for economic development, while others contribute to the prosperity of the state.

Economic development assistance

WisDOT has a number of assistance programs that act directly as a catalyst for economic development in Wisconsin. These programs provide grants and loans to businesses and local communities for their transportation-related needs.

• Economic Development Assistance Program summary

Documents/studies

• Economic Impact of Wisconsin's Commercial Ports (April 2024)​
  
• Economic Contributions of the Railroad Industry to Wisconsin: A Focus on the Publicly-Owned Railroad System in Southern Wisconsin​ (2013)​​
  
• 2010 Economic Significance of the Aviation Industry in Wisconsin Summary
• Airport Economic Impact Studies
• Economic Impact Analysis of Ferry Operations in Wisconsin
  

Other resources

• Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC)
• Think-Make-Happen in Wisconsin (inwisconsin.com)
• Inside WEDC (WEDC.org)
• Regional Economic Development Organizations
• Center for Community Economic Development
• Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA)
• Wisconsin railroad business development contacts

Contact

Matt Umhoefer​
Economic Development Section Chief​
matthew.umhoefer@dot.wi.gov
(608) 266-9476