Dept. of Commerce: To Hold Hayward Listening Session on Act 255

Contact:
Tony Hozeny, 608/267-9661

MADISON – Small technology businesses, prospective investors, business advisors and economic development professionals in the Hayward area will want to attend a listening session on Act 255, which creates a mechanism to promote capital investment and technological entrepreneurship in Wisconsin. The Hayward area listening session will be held July 14 at 2:00 p.m. at the City Council Chambers, 15889 W. Third St., Hayward. There is no need to register in advance.

“Gov. Jim Doyle signed Act 255 to provide Wisconsin to attract more venture capital and stimulate the growth of technology firms,” said Department of Commerce (Commerce) Secretary Cory L. Nettles. “We are holding these listening sessions to solicit comments and suggestions from everyone interested in growing Wisconsin’s technology base.”

Act 255 consists of three components, including tax credits for angel and early stage seed investments, a technology commercialization grant and loan program and funds to establish entrepreneurial centers. Commerce is developing administrative rules to implement the act.

In addition to holding these sessions, Commerce will post information and accept comments on Act 255 through its webpage at www.commerce.wi.gov/Act 255. Prior to the start of the listening sessions, talking points of the proposed rules will be available at this URL.

For further information, contact Pam Christenson, Commerce, 608/267-9384.