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 Bicycling in Wisconsin (2024)
• 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)
  
• 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