The Wisconsin Business Innovation Corporation (WBIC) was created by the Northwest Regional Planning Commission (NWRPC) in 1996 to foster economic development of new technology business startups and expansions in Wisconsin. Since the WBIC was formed, WBIC and NWRPC have received several national awards and recognition for innovation related to economic development.
The WBIC operates two revolving loan funds and created the Wisconsin Rural Enterprise Fund (WREF) – the first 'community-based' venture capital fund corporation in the Region.
A primary goal of the WBIC is to facilitate the technology transfer of new innovations into the marketplace to promote economic development and high skilled job growth. One such successful innovation was the creation of Botanic Oil Innovations, Inc. which eventually transitioned to private ownership. In 2010, the WBIC created Wolf Wood, Inc. This company applies a proprietary treating process to low-grade wood species that make the wood virtually resistant to humidity and water damage.
Please see our list of Business Resources for general information and resources on business development.