Wisconsin Startup Coalition Applauds Governor Evers’ Proposed $100m Venture Capital ‘Fund of Funds’ Program

Madison, WI – February 14, 2020 – Governor Tony Evers today announced his 2021-2023 executive state budget will include a proposal to create a $100 million venture capital fund of funds program under the direction of the WEDC to jumpstart innovation and startup growth in Wisconsin.

“Venture capital ‘fund of funds’ models are effective tools for promoting investment in early stage startup companies.” said Lydia Zeller, President of the WSC Board of Directors. “We encourage policymakers to work with WSC to explore successful models from other Midwestern states and incorporate best practices into future programs.”

“Compared to our Midwestern peers, Wisconsin has historically struggled to create a robust venture capital ecosystem” said Matt Cordio, Co-founder of the WSC. “The creation of a new venture capital ‘fund of funds’ program would attract significant private sector investment, stimulate job growth and drive long-term economic growth across the State of Wisconsin.”

The WSC looks forward to working with policymakers to seek broad input from the startup and venture capital communities in Wisconsin as this proposal moves forward.

About the Wisconsin Startup Coalition

Wisconsin Startup Coalition (WSC) is a bipartisan, member-driven advocacy organization formed to support the state’s startup founders and the innovation ecosystem. The non-profit was formed during the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the last six months, WSC has gained the support of nearly fifty startups, funds and ecosystem organizations who share its vision: doubling the number of startups receiving their first rounds of funding in Wisconsin over the next five years. WSC is proud to be the first advocacy voice dedicated exclusively to representing the diverse voices of Wisconsin startup founders and those who support them.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. It has not been verified for its accuracy or completeness.