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April 1, 2009 The Journal Times
Coal by-product to be used to make bricks in Caledonia
— A coal by-product from the Oak Creek Power Plant will be used to make bricks when a Silicon Valley company starts its first fly ash-to-bricks manufacturing plant here.
March 19, 2009 The Journal Times
SC Johnson ranks among top 10 for disabilities, top 50 for diversity
RACINE — SC Johnson ranked sixth among the top 10 companies for disabilities and in the top 50 companies for diversity, according to the ninth annual list of Top 50 Companies for Diversity recently announced by DiversityInc.com.
March 18, 2009 The Journal Times City has ambitious plans for downtown Burlington
City officials on Tuesday laid out their ambitious plan to revitalize a section of downtown Burlington. Included in the planned redevelopment project is a 52-room hotel in the heart of the city’s downtown district. The project would include work on both sides of Dodge Street between East Chestnut and Washington streets.
March 17, 2009 BizTimes.com
SBA says stimulus funds will increase small business lending
On Monday, President Barack Obama announced plans to allocate economic stimulus funds to immediately reduce small-business lending fees and increase the government guarantee on some U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans to 90 percent. The plan will temporarily raise loan guarantees under the Small Business Administration’s 7(a) loan program to up to 90 percent and waive borrowing fees for many borrowers within the 504 Certified Development Company loans. The changes were made effective Monday.
March 17, 2009 Computerworld
How and why to launch a business presence on Twitter
Companies big and small have successfully used Twitter to improve customer service, receive R&D tips, and market their products
March 13, 2009 MyRacineCounty.com
Faust named state's top small-businessman
A Burlington businessman is the Wisconsin Small-Business Person of the Year as named by the U.S. Small Business Administration.
March 13, 2009 Milwaukee Business Journal
Reach for the stars: Racine firm key in U.N.’s Year of AstronomyEarly last year, amateur stargazer and Racine business owner Tom Smith embarked on a plan to turn the clock back on astronomy by 400 years. . . . He’s a participant in a United Nations project to reinvigorate astronomy among the youth of the world, and his part is to fill everyone with the same wonder and inspiration that Galileo felt when he first spied the heavens through his telescope in 1609.
March 12, 2009 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
SC Johnson to phase out chemical
SC Johnson & Son Inc., has decided to phase out DEP, a phthalate that is used in some of the company fragrances.
March 10, 2009 BizTimes.com
Wisconsin reports record exports for 2008
Wisconsin now ranks as the 18th-largest exporting state, compared with its 21st-largest ranking in 2006. "Wisconsin companies aggressively pursued overseas markers and drove our exports to record levels despite a global economic slowdown," Gov. Jim Doyle said. "As governor, I'm committed to doing all I can to support a climate that encourages success for our exporters."
March 7, 2009 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
BizStarts Milwaukee has initiatives to enable entrepreneurs
Calling all entrepreneurs or entrepreneurs-in-the-making!
If you have a dream of starting a business someday, especially if it is a potentially high-growth business, new resources are coming on stream that will help you realize your goal.
BizStarts Milwaukee, a group I helped found and lead, is launching three initiatives that will offer tools and support to prepare you for pitching to investors about your venture. They are BizStarts Connect, BizStarts Learn and BizStarts Venture Track.
March 6, 2009 BizTimes.com
Top 10 list of business opportunities in the stimulus bill
The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act was signed into law by President Barack Obama on Feb. 16, 2009. It is massive, not only in dollar amount ($787 billion), but also in length (781 pages, single-spaced). The legislation represents about $1 billion of tax and appropriation benefits per page. Here are 10 of the surprising, little known opportunities for businesses buried within this massive legislation.
March 6, 2009 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
SBA names small-business award winners
The U.S. Small Business Administration has named Craig Faust, president and CEO of HGI Co., Burlington, its Wisconsin Small Business Person of the Year for 2009. For a list of all the 2009 winners, please go to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:
March 5, 2009 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Doyle announces state workforce training program
Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle announced today $5.89 million for strategic workforce training initiatives to prepare Wisconsin workers and businesses to succeed in the future economy.
March 4, 2009 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Racine firm produces Galileoscope to promote astronomy
An international team of astronomers, optical engineers and science educators has begun offering a high-quality, low-cost telescope to coincide with the International Year of Astronomy 2009. The Galileoscope, which sells for $15 plus shipping, was engineered and designed by Merit Manufacturing, a small Racine company.
March 1, 2009 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Racine's InSinkErator gets starring role in global ad
Racine-based InSinkErator is touted as an example of innovation in a global advertising campaign to be launched Monday by parent company Emerson Electric Co.
February 27, 2009 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Ruud Lighting tests energy-saving controls for LED lights
Sturtevant - With the stroke of a computer keyboard Thursday night, Ruud Lighting Inc.'s wireless lighting-control system flickered to life. . .
The company's Beta Lighting division began producing light-emitting diode streetlights in August. As LED lights have grown in popularity, the company looked to improve upon the technology by adding a control function, said Christopher Ruud, executive vice president of Ruud Lighting.
February 19, 2009 The Journal Times
Fischer Precise investing locally despite recession
Even in this climate of job cuts, one can find the occasional bright spot — such as Fischer Precise USA.
February 12, 2009 Business Journal of Milwaukee
Small business optimism increases
Small business bosses are feeling a little more optimistic than they were a few months ago. But that optimism is accompanied by a deep conservatism toward expansion, and an expectation that it will take time for the economy to recover, a new Network of City Business Journals survey of 776 small business leaders in January shows.
February 11, 2009 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Proposal would expand tax credit to invest in young companies
. . . Economic development proponents cheered plans Wednesday by Gov. Jim Doyle and Democratic lawmakers to spur more job creation and entrepreneurship in Wisconsin.
February 11, 2009 The Journal Times
“Will Chicago Eat Racine?”
That headline, together with a catchy photo of the Sears Tower gobbling up several Racine buildings and a healthy dose of kringle, represents the cover of Milwaukee Magazine in November. While comical, the extensive article that followed chronicled Racine’s emergence as a force within the Chicago-Milwaukee corridor. It also represented the core of our economic development marketing efforts over the last two years.
February 4, 2009 BizTimes.com
MLG "optimistic" about area's industrial market in '09
In its 2009 forecast for the metro Milwaukee commercial real estate market, Brookfield-based NAI MLG Commercial says "continued positive absorption" is expected this year for the area's industrial space.
January 27, 2009 The Journal Times
Mount Pleasant offers tax incentives for water park
A financial lift from the village will allow plans for an indoor water park to proceed, the businessman heading the project said Tuesday.
January 27, 2009 The Journal Times
City asking for help with comprehensive plan
RACINE — How should the City of Racine develop and invest its resources over the next 25 years?
January 24, 2009 The Journal Times
Caledonia, Oak Creek agree to I-94 water service pact
CALEDONIA — An agreement between Oak Creek and Caledonia to bring water service to the Interstate 94 corridor in Caledonia is described as “beautiful in its simplicity.”
January 23, 2009 BizTimes.com
‘Fresh Coast’ could spark economic growth
The Milwaukee 7’s Water Council, a coalition of business, academia and government dedicated to transforming the Milwaukee area into a global hub of freshwater research, commerce, jobs and education, is poised for significant progress in 2009.
January 22, 2009 The Journal Times
Two Johnson family companies are among top 100 places to work
RACINE — Two local companies — both Johnson-family owned — are among the 100 best places to work in America, according to Fortune magazine’s latest list. For the full article, please go to The Journal Times:
January 19, 2009 The Journal Times
West Racine development proposal is a good start
. . . The city has never had a problem persuading residents to live in the quaint, affordable neighborhood. A little more housing could finally help fill a vacant block on the eastern edge of that neighborhood.
January 14, 2009 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
BizStarts to create online entrepreneurial network
BizStarts Milwaukee has counted seven new start-ups since declaring in September that it's aiming to help form 50 start-ups by 2010, the group's organizers said at its first-ever networking event last night.
January 13, 2009 Biz Times
Bold new plans focus on Wisconsin's economic futureTwo bold new plans intended to help Wisconsin weather the recession and restore its economy were unveiled today.
January 12, 2009 The Journal Times
City seeks state money to clean ex-Walker siteThe City of Racine will go after state money to help get the former Pointe Blue site ready for some other future developer. For the full story, please go to The Journal Times:
January 11, 2009 The Journal Times
Racine area is epicenter of U.N. astronomy project
Like a young star cluster, a special telescope that may allow millions of people to discover outer space is being unveiled in this area. . . .
The Galileoscope, a telescope kit designed to spark an astronomical interest in people around the world, is a project for the United Nations-designated International Year of Astronomy 2009. And a Racine company will make the telescope.
January 10, 2009 OnMilwaukee.com
A new networking site for students and recent grads
Move over, Facebook. There's a new networking site in town. . . . Launched in December '08 by Intrepid Innovations, a small, Muskego-based company specializing in Web design, graphic design, Internet marketing and consulting services, the club is geared toward college students and recent grads. . . .
"Because we're offering it online, anyone in the country can join," says Robertson. Unfortunately, people living outside metro Milwaukee would miss out on the personal interaction -- the monthly meet-ups, guest speakers and activities.
January 7, 2009 The Journal Times
Recession is a time to prepare for the future
In my last article, I relayed various information that was intended for employers in Racine County that may be useful during the current economic recession.
January 7, 2009 BizTimes.com
Milwaukee only major U.S. metro area with rising home prices
Bucking the national trend during the recession and housing market collapse, home prices in the Milwaukee area increased 5.3 percent from October 2007 to October 2008 according to New York-based Radar Logic Inc.'s Monthly Housing Market Report. For the full story, please go to BizTimes.com:
January 7, 2009 BizTimes.com
Report projects strong '09 for region's industrial market
Despite the recession, a recent report by Santa Ana, Calif.-based Grubb & Ellis Co. predicts lower vacancy rates, steady leasing activity and positive absorption for the southeastern Wisconsin industrial real estate market. For the full story, please go to BizTimes.com:
January 6, 2009 The Journal Times
Developers propose stores, 55 apartments for West Racine block
A $7.2 million residential-retail development is being proposed for a West Racine block that’s been vacant since mid-2006. For the full story, please go to The Journal Times:
January 5, 2009 Forbes Magazine
Ten Cities For Job Growth In 2009
Having trouble finding a job in, say, New York City or South Florida? You might give Madison, Wis., a try. It's got an unusually healthy outlook for job growth and a strikingly low unemployment rate--3.5% in October, when the national rate was 6.5%.
No. 5: Milwaukee, Wis. Unemployment rate: 4.8% Milwaukee's unemployment rate is barely changed from a year ago, when it was 4.7%. The aging population has helped health care jobs multiply; they've grown by almost 30,000 in the past 12 months. Many health care, energy and environmental companies that were based in Chicago have been moving to Milwaukee for its cheaper expenses. The city is only about an hour from Chicago by train.
In Pictures: 10 Cities Where They're Hiring
December 5, 2008 Westine Report
Bustling downtown within reach for Union Grove
Main Street reconstruction in the Village of Union Grove is completed and downtown businesses are spending money to improve their storefronts. Now the fun begins, according to Kristin Niemiec, a community development manager for the Racine County Economic Development Corporation (RCEDC). For the full story, please click here.
November 28, 2008 Westine Report
Calling it a Knight
For 22 years, Carol Knight, has made her mark on the community from her Greater Union Grove Area Chamber of Commerce office. For the full story, click here.
November 24, 2008 Business Journal of Milwaukee
Wisconsin exports up 13 percent
Wisconsin exports for the first nine months of 2008 increased by 13.1 percent compared with 2007 totals to a record $15.6 billion, Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle said Monday. For the first three quarters of the year, Wisconsin ranks as the 18th-largest exporting state, compared with its ranking of 21 in 2006. For the full article, please go to the Business Journal of Milwaukee:
November 20, 2008 Business Journal of Milwaukee
Doyle signs global climate change pact
Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle announced Wednesday the signing of an agreement with national and international leaders vowing to reduce greenhouse gas emissions promote environmentally friendly economies. For the full article, please go to the Business Journal of Milwaukee:
November 14, 2008 BizTimes Milwaukee
Milwaukee to create land bank for water-related businesses
City of Milwaukee officials are working to establish a 150- to 200-acre bank of land to attract water-related businesses, Department of City Development Commissioner Richard "Rocky" Marcoux announced today. For the
Friday, November 14, 2008 BizTimes Milwaukee
Modine opens new plant in IndiaModine Manufacturing Co., a Racine-based provider of thermal management technology and solutions, announced the opening of its manufacturing operations in Chennai, India.
November 13, 2008 Business Journal of Milwaukee
AEM honors J.I. CaseThe Association of Equipment Manufacturers of Milwaukee announced five new inductees for the AEM Hall of Fame, including Jerome Increase Case, founder of what would become Case Corp. of Racine.
November 13, 2008 The Journal Times
Economic downturn could be a business opportunity
Depending on who you talk and/or listen to, our country and perhaps the world are either in or out of a recession. Interestingly, many of the businesses I talk to in Racine, while not setting new sales records, continue to hold their own in these uncertain times. Nevertheless, most business consultants would agree that now is the time to plan for the future.
November 10, 2008 The Journal Times
Transit board suggests sales tax for rail, buses
A group representing three local counties and the governor is proposing a sales tax of up to .5 percent to fund public transit. . . . What the RTA voted to do on Monday was ask the state to make it the permanent transit oversight body for southeast Wisconsin and to give it power to levy local sales taxes of up to 0.5 percent in each member area. That tax would fund the extension of Kenosha-Racine-Milwaukee commuter rail service from Kenosha through Racine and to Milwaukee, and would fund other transit modes such as city bus systems.
November 9, 2008 The Journal Times
Room to grow: Local company brings new life to the former Acme Diecasting building
In late February 2001, the furnaces, crucibles, machining equipment and offices at Acme Diecasting all went silent and cold. . . . Now, however, the building is on the verge of being re-energized by a small but growing company, JSA Tool & Engineering, 14100 Leetsbir Road, Yorkville. JSA has leased almost 47,000 square feet within the former Acme building, or almost half of it. The lease includes about half of the office space.
November 7, 2008 Westine Report
Now they’ve all become Village people
The Town of Rochester hasn’t disappeared but it has officially ceased to exist. Following a referendum vote held Nov. 4, voters approved consolidating the township with the Village of Rochester and forming one Village of Rochester. Please click here to view the full article. November 7, 2008 The Journal Times
SC Johnson gives $500,000 for Uptown revival program
SC Johnson will give the City of Racine a total of $500,000 over five years to help revitalize the Uptown district. The city has started a revival program for Uptown based on attracting artists to live and work there. The money from SCJ, $100,000 per year for five years, can be used for such things as property acquisition and renovation; landscaping and lighting; and public safety.
November 6, 2008 The Journal Times
Sewer deal could bring I-94 development to Caledonia
When companies come window-shopping for land along Interstate 94 in Caledonia to set up office buildings or warehouses, they often lose interest, Village President Ron Coutts said. He expects that to change now that an agreement will bring sewer service to the Highway K corridor. Caledonia will connect to Mount Pleasant’s existing equipment.
November 6, 2008 The Journal Times
First artist poised to join Uptown revival program
RACINE — This city has Hurricane Ike to thank for sending forth the first artist to join the Uptown Artist Relocation Program. The program aims to make vacant or underused Uptown properties available to professional artists as places to live, work and show their art.
October 31, 2008 Westine Report
Burlington egg processing plant to open facility in Yorkville
It’s no yolk – the Town of Yorkville will get eggs-actly what the economy needs – a few more jobs – when Echo Lake Foods moves into the former Maple Leafs Farms duck-processing building. Please click here to see the full Westine Report article October 31, 2008 Westine Report
Swantz building to have the look of a train depotBuilding would house six new retail shops
The Village of Union Grove is moving into the future by way of building on the past. The former Swantz Hardware building on the corner of Main Street and 10th Avenue is being renovated to look like an old train depot. Please click here to see the full Westine Report artice
October 27, 2008 Milwaukee Magazine
Will Chicago Eat Racine?
A mile west of Lake Michigan and just southwest of Main Street in Racine is the Uptown neighborhood, which hardly lives up to its tony name. . . . Musing in his City Hall office less than a mile away, Mayor Gary Becker sees a way to make Uptown considerably more upmarket. He envisions an arts enclave that would draw residents and tourists.
October 23, 2008 Real Estate Journal
HSA acquires industrial building in Sturtevant, Wis.
HSA Commercial Real Estate has purchased a fully-leased 192,500-square-foot industrial building at 10277 Venice Drive, Sturtevant, Wis., off Interstate 94 near Racine.
October 23, 2008 REJournals.com
Surviving the slump in Wisconsin
The real estate slowdown shouldn't be a surprise to anyone, says Max Rasansky, managing director for the state of Wisconsin for CB Richard Ellis. . . It was inevitable, he says, that the era of commercial growth, which started in the early 1990s, would eventually come to an end. Fortunately, Rasansky does business in Wisconsin, where development, while steady, never hit the dizzying heights of activity as it did in other parts of the country.
October 20, 2008 Business Journal of Milwaukee
Doyle urges work force training investments; comments on economy
Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle on Monday urged state manufacturers to invest in advanced manufacturing worker training through the state’s Manufacturing Skill Standards Certification program, while also commenting on the state of the U.S. and Wisconsin economies.
October 19, 2008 The Journal Times
Wisconsin Plating Works of Racine sees business grow ‘by leaps and bounds’
RACINE — Bob and Jeff Toeppe haven’t let a little thing like 1,000 tons of toxic soil stop their resuscitation of an old, chemical-intensive business. The brothers, third-generation owners of Wisconsin Plating Works of Racine, continue to stand out in an old-line industry.
October 19, 2008 The Journal Times
Wisconsin Plating Works thrilled with lucrative Honda contract
RACINE — If you bought a Honda car this year, or will in the foreseeable future, you could be riding on a little bit of Racine expertise.
October 17, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Mixed industries help Wisconsin weather slowdown, economist says
While conceding that the nation could be sliding into a recession, a senior Federal Reserve official said Friday that Wisconsin's diverse manufacturing sector is faring better than portions of the Midwest that rely more heavily on automakers and their suppliers. . . .
While automakers and their suppliers slump, "our machinery sector, which builds a host of capital goods, is holding up much better," Evans said. . . "By historical standards, this deviation is somewhat unusual." The types of goods made in Wisconsin have found strong export demand, he said. From 2006 to 2007, Wisconsin's exports rose 28%, led by machinery, he said. For the full article, please go to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:
October 17, 2008 Small Business Times
Modine to expand condenser business
Modine Manufacturing Co. today reaffirmed a commitment to grow its global refrigerant components business through a series of strategic actions designed to leverage the company's leadership in condenser technology.
October 15, 2008 The Journal Times
Egg facility proposed for Maple Leaf Farms land
YORKVILLE — A new use for part of the Maple Leaf Farms duck farm on Highway U is in the works.
October 15, 2008 The Journal Times
Partnership aims to create new small-business micro-loan fund
RACINE COUNTY — The County Board is scheduled to take action Thursday on creating a new micro-loan fund for small businesses here.
October 14, 2008 Midwest Real Estate News Reports
HSA Commercial breaks ground at Park 94
Chicago-based HSA Commercial Real Estate has broken ground on two industrial facilities totaling 565,200 square feet in Park 94 at Mt. Pleasant, a 90-acre business park along Interstate 94 in Southeast Wisconsin's Racine County.
October 13, 2008 Business Journal of Milwaukee
Modine licenses technology to Bloom Energy
Modine Manufacturing Co. has announced that it has reached a multimillion-dollar licensing agreement with Bloom Energy, a developer of fuel cell-based energy systems based in Sunnyvale, Calif. For the full article, please go to the Business Journal of Milwaukee:
October 10, 2008 The Journal Times
New construction in Racine County
Folks around town may have noticed quite a bit of new building construction in the I-94 corridor these days. Overall, three developers have over 633,000 square feet of new buildings under construction. For the full article, please go to The Journal Times:
October 6, 2008 HSA Commercial Real Estate
HSA Breaks Ground for Park 94 at Mt. Pleasant in Southeast Wisconsin
On Tuesday, September 23, Chicago-based HSA Commercial Real Estate broke ground on two new industrial facilities totaling 565,200 square feet in Park 94 at Mt. Pleasant, a 90-acre business park along Interstate 94 in Southeast Wisconsin’s Racine County.
October 2, 2008 Small Business Times
United Airlines magazine features Milwaukee
More than 6 million passengers will get the inside scoop on Milwaukee when the October issue of "Hemispheres," United Airlines' in-flight magazine, premieres today.
September 30, 2008 Small Business Times
Project to help Milwaukee startups
BizStarts Milwaukee, a nonprofit entity dedicated to fostering and promoting entrepreneurship in southeastern Wisconsin, officially launched today.
September 25, 2008 The Journal Times
Four Racine County corridors to be analyzed for success rates
September 23, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Wisconsin manufacturers outperformed others in trade report
An examination of economic output and employment in eight industrial states released Tuesday found that Wisconsin’s manufacturing sector has weathered the last decade better than most places and the U.S. overall.
September 23, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
CEO Roundtable offers ideas for small businesses
Jerry Jendusa knew the aerospace electronics business when he launched Emteq Inc. in 1996, but he didn’t know all the fundamentals to help his basement start-up take off and soar. . . .
What Jendusa needed was a sounding board for his ideas, someplace he could turn to for advice. He found the help and connections he sought in the Council of Small Business Executives.
Established in 1986 by the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce, COSBE is a business networking association that advocates for the region’s small businesses and promotes regional economic development. For the full article, please go to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:
September 23, 2008 Business Journal of Milwaukee
Working Mother honors S.C. Johnson
S.C. Johnson & Son Inc. was the only Milwaukee-area company to be named to Working Mother magazine's 2008 list of the 100 Best Companies for working mothers. For the full article, please go to the Business Journal of Milwaukee:
September 17, 2008 Small Business Times
HSA to celebrate construction of Mt. Pleasant business park
Although construction began in May, Chicago-based HSA Commercial Real Estate will hold a groundbreaking ceremony on Sept. 23 to celebrate the start of construction for the Park 94 Business Park, located southwest of Highway 20 and County Highway V in Mt. Pleasant.
September 17, 2008 Small Business Times
Milwaukee to host Chinese trade mission
The World Trade Center Wisconsin invites Milwaukee-area businesses to a networking reception with executives from 14 Chinese companies involved in the automotive industry next week. The reception will be held on Friday, Sept. 26, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the Milwaukee 7 Resource Room at We Energies, 231 W. Michigan Ave. There is no fee to attend the reception, but advance registration is required. For the full article, please go to the Small Business Times:
September 16, 2008 Small Business Times
Burlington firm partners to manufacture outdoor pizza ovens
Chicago Brick Oven (CBO) has teamed up with Burlington-based Harmony Outdoor Living Inc. to create a residential, wood-fired pizza oven for outdoor entertaining enthusiasts.
September 12, 2008 Business Journal of Milwaukee
Racine couple plans Mount Pleasant sports complex
A Racine husband-and-wife development team is planning to build a $10 million sports complex on 27 acres in Mount Pleasant that will feature indoor soccer fields and an Olympic-sized pool. Mike and Terry Bannon, who also own Razor Sharp Fitness Club in Racine, expect to finish construction on their 146,000-square-foot indoor facility by the summer of 2010 that will include two soccer fields, a 50-meter swimming pool and exhibition hall.
September 11, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Welcome to sunny Wisconsin – personality-wise, that is
Feeling friendly today? Outgoing? Then you must live in Wisconsin. That’s the takeaway from a “personality map” of the United States, according to study released Wednesday by researchers at Cambridge University in England.
September 11, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
UW ranks high for entrepreneurship
The University of Wisconsin-Madison has been named the 13th best graduate school for entrepreneurs, according to a ranking published by Entrepreneur magazine and The Princeton Review. The top graduate school was Babson College near Boston, and the top undergraduate school was the University of Houston. Schools were evaluated in the areas of academics and requirements, students and faculty, and outside-the-classroom experiences.
To see the rankings in Entrepreneur.com, please go to http://www.entrepreneur.com/topcolleges/index.html - Click on “See full Ranking” to see #13 - University of Wisconsin, or go to http://www.entrepreneur.com/topcolleges/grad/0.html
September 11, 2008 The Journal Times
GUEST COLUMN: Statewide survey promotes next-generation manufacturingBy Gordon KacalaThroughout the country, local economies that have been dominated by the manufacturing industry have undergone significant change. . . . Racine County’s manufacturing industry has experienced a decline in employment and manufacturing firms during the past 35 years. The Racine County Economic Development Corp. and partner business development assistance providers have agreed to embrace manufacturing in the belief that nimble, innovative and competitive manufacturing companies can compete in today’s worldwide economy.
The first step in defining the assistance programs that will be provided locally is to benchmark our existing companies. That’s where we need your help. We strongly encourage all Racine County manufacturing firms to participate in a statewide benchmark survey designed by the Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership. The confidential Web-based survey can be completed in about 30 minutes.
September 11, 2008 The Journal Times
JohnsonDiversey to pledge to cut greenhouse gas emissions
LAS VEGAS – Sturtevant-based JohnsonDiversey today will pledge to slash greenhouse gas emissions by up to 25 percent by 2013 from 2003 levels. The World Wildlife Fund will make the announcement at 4:30 p.m. Wisconsin time that JohnsonDiversey has joined the WWF Climate Savers program.
September 6, 2008 The Journal Times
Tourism season was a big success in Racine
RACINE COUNTY — A potent cocktail whose ingredients included high fuel prices, clean water and spectator events helped produce one of the best summer tourism seasons here that many people can recall.
September 5, 2008 Small Business Times
Racine company to expand
TriCore AEA is planning to a 2,000-square-foot addition to its plant in Racine.
September 3, 2008 WTN News
Feingold announces small business innovation initiative
Milwaukee, Wis. - U.S. Senator Russ Feingold has launched an economic development initiative that would make more small business innovation and technology grants available to small businesses that develop water quality technology. The measure, which will be part of a Senate bill Feingold plans to introduce, is part of his E4 initiative, will focus on boosting small business innovation, supporting job growth in the emerging “green” energy sector, strengthening workforce development, and building new education partnerships.
September 2, 2008 Small Business Times
WWBIC lands $1.1M federal grant for micro-financing
The Wisconsin Women's Business Initiative Corp. was awarded $1.1 million by the U.S. Department of the Treasury's Community Development Financial Institutions Fund late last week, which the organization will use to build its revolving loan fund, build capacity and expand programming.
August 26, 2008 Small Business Times
Real estate deal of the week
CenterPoint buys 20 acres for industrial development in Racine County
August 25, 2008 Small Business Times
Manufacturing survey will provide benchmarks for Wisconsin
What are the best practices that will propel Wisconsin manufacturers to success in 2015? To what extent are the state's 10,000 manufacturers embracing world class manufacturing strategies to transform their companies? Wisconsin's Next Generation Manufacturing Survey will provide answers and fresh insights to those and other questions. The web-based survey was launched today and can be accessed at www.WisconsinNGM.com
The survey will identify and measure key performance metrics and best practice strategies consistent with next generation manufacturing. . . . The survey findings will be used to align and strengthen local and state policies, programs and infrastructure supporting the state's 10,000 manufacturers.
August 23, 2008 The Journal Times
Case IH lands $12 million worth of cotton picker contracts in China
Case IH, a leading brand in the agricultural equipment business of CNH and Fiat Group, recently signed two contracts totaling nearly $12 million with the Xinjiang Agriculture Cultivation Group in China to supply 40 Case IH CPX620 cotton pickers.
August 12, 2008 The Journal Times
Lavelle buys Connecticut rubber company
BURLINGTON — Lavelle Industries Inc. on Monday announced that it has purchased a Connecticut-based custom rubber manufacturing company. Lavelle Industries, a leading manufacturer of custom molded rubber and plastic parts, purchased Syntex Rubber Corp. A combination of market economics and rising material costs led to the sale.
August 10, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Modine stocks rise
According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, “Racine - Modine Manufacturing Co. (MOD) generated some unexpected heat in July. It posted the best investment return for the month among Wisconsin public companies.”
August 6, 2008 The Journal Times
Indoor-outdoor sports complex proposed in Mount Pleasant
STURTEVANT — A multimillion-dollar proposal for a new sports complex in Mount Pleasant was introduced Tuesday.
About 85 people attended a two-hour long strategic planning meeting at the Center for Advanced Technology and Innovation, 2320 Renaissance Blvd. No formal action was taken at the meeting which several village committees and boards attended. For the full story, please go to The Journal Times:
August 5, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
LED street lights expand Ruud Lighting’s marketSturtevant - Energy-saving lighting that could help cities in Alaska to Australia save on the cost of electricity in street lights is creating global growth opportunities for Ruud Lighting Inc. Ruud Lighting on Tuesday celebrated a new energy-saving street light fixture coming off the assembly line. The street light fixtures will soon be installed on several streets in Racine, Mayor Gary Becker said.
August 2, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
WiSys helps link research, real world
For more than a century, the University of Wisconsin-Madison has been the state’s academic research powerhouse. . . . Although the Madison campus attracts the most attention, other four-year schools in the UW System have been making their own academic research statements. During the past eight years, the WiSys Technology Foundation Inc. has been working to harness - and in many cases, combine - some of those schools' best academic resources to spur discoveries and help state companies innovate.
August 2, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Wireless network getting bigger
As wireless Internet service in Racine County moves toward countywide coverage, leaders of a public-private partnership say they consider it a successful venture that will help economic development. For the full article, please go to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:
July 31, 2008 Small Business Times
State manufacturing group reports $226 million economic impact
The Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership (WMEP), a nonprofit organization dedicated to growing manufacturing companies in the state, said today that it produced a $226 million positive impact on the state's manufacturers during its fiscal 2008.
July 31, 2008 Small Business Times
State manufacturing group reports $226 million economic impactThe Wisconsin Manufacturing Extension Partnership (WMEP), a nonprofit organization dedicated to growing manufacturing companies in the state, said today that it produced a $226 million positive impact on the state's manufacturers during its fiscal 2008. . . .
Manufacturers in southeastern Wisconsin reported a $70 million impact from WMEP's efforts, with 293 jobs retained or created, $50 million in increased and retained sales and $16 million in new investment. For the full article, please go to the Small Business Times:
July 28, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Area business taxes below U.S. average
Business taxes in Milwaukee are lower than in the average U.S. city and also score well when compared with areas of similar size, according to a study released Monday by the accounting firm KPMG.
July 26, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Angel financing takes shape in state
One of Silicon Pastures’ recent investments is in a Rochester, Minn., company that dunks computers in a soybean-derived liquid as part of a process to help them run faster without overheating.
Silicon Pastures is one of a growing number of angel investing groups in the state providing increasingly sophisticated funding for young, high-potential companies. It is also one of six angel groups - three from Wisconsin and three from Illinois - that are at the core of the Midwest Co-Investment Network, a recently-formed organization trying to make it easier for angels in the region to do deals together.
July 25, 2008 The Journal Times
Revamped Main Street brings developers to Union Grove
UNION GROVE — The economy may be stalled in most places, but it’s starting to rev up in this village’s downtown.
July 21, 2008 Small Business Times
World Trade Center Wisconsin in global spotlight
The World Trade Center Wisconsin, a member of the New York-based World Trade Centers Association, an international nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the business climate in the cities in which it does business, was recently the subject of the cover story of World Trade Center, an international magazine published by The Financial Times in Germany.
July 20, 2008 The Journal Times
New Johnson Outdoors products tout latest technology
Ah, summer — time to play in the great outdoors. And for those who hear the call of the wild at this time of year, Johnson Outdoors has plenty of new, cool toys to take into the wilderness or campground.
July 17, 2008 The Journal Times
Runzheimer acquires new driver route optimization firm
WATERFORD — Runzheimer International has acquired RouteSmith, a Denver-based firm that specializes in driver route optimization. The purchase was announced Thursday; terms of the agreement were undisclosed. For the full story, please go to The Journal
July, 2008 Corporate Report Wisconsin
Dale Rogers of Fiber-Tech Inc. turns his dreams into a successful "niche" business
Dale Roger's recipe for success is simple: "Go after your dream and don't give it up. Just keep fighting and you'll get what you want." For Dale, president/CEO of Fiber-Tech Inc. in Franksville, a company he founded 21 years ago, fighting for his dream has resulted in steady annual growth and a diversified customer base. For the full story, please click here. July 16, 2008 Small Business Times
Wisconsin banks among strongest in the nation
There is little risk of a Wisconsin bank suffering the same fate as IndyMac, the failed California-based mortgage lender. IndyMac's downfall was due in large part to its business model of originating risky mortgages in the volatile California housing market. By contrast, Wisconsin banks did not engage in risky mortgage lending.
July 16, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Forbes ranks Milwaukee in Top 10 cities for young professionals
"Forbes.com has ranked Milwaukee as No. 9 on a list of best cities for young professionals. Forbes cited Milwaukee last week for having a high concentration of top employers, above-average professional pay with below-average cost of living, and a sizable proportion of residents 20 to 35 years old who've never been married.
July 11, 2008 Business Journal of Milwaukee
City poised to be water leader
“Frederick Dubee sees global opportunities for Milwaukee, as the city tries to position itself as a freshwater mecca in North America.”
July 11, 2008 Business Journal of Milwaukee
UWM Research Foundation planting seeds for growth
“With spurring local economic development central to its mission, the two-year-old University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee Research Foundation is making headway, especially through assistance from area groups like the Helen Bader Foundation and local businesses. The Helen Bader Foundation has provided a $20,000 grant to support a technology transfer internship program, the most recent step in the UWM Research Foundation's goal to support research and innovation in greater Milwaukee.” For the article, please go to the Business Journal of Milwaukee:
July 8, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Milwaukee 7 development group hires water specialist
The Milwaukee 7 economic-development consortium hired a water-industry specialist this week to help consolidate the scores of area water-technology companies into an industrial cluster that can add jobs.
July 8, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Nonprofit group to support entrepreneurs, innovatorsA group of Milwaukee-area business people are gathering support for a nonprofit organization to foster more innovation and entrepreneurship in southeastern Wisconsin. BizStarts Milwaukee will begin a series of meetings today with lawyers, accountants, marketers and other service providers who are interested in joining the effort.
July 7, 2008 The Journal Times
Burlington Plan Commission to consider buying land to expand business park
BURLINGTON — The city will soon move to almost double the size of Burlington Manufacturing and Office Park before growing companies cause it to burst at the seams. The south-side business park along Highway 83 has had two major acquisitions by manufacturers within the past eight months, leaving a dwindling supply of available parcels.
June 26, 2008 Burlington Standard Press
City helps RexCon get financing
A Milwaukee company that has chosen to relocate in Burlington is getting some financial assistance to do so. Earlier this month city officials approved the issuance of $8 million in industrial revenue bonds that will be used toward building the company's new headquarters in the Burlington Manufacturing and Office Park (BMOP). For the full article, please click here.
June 23, 2008 WTN NEWS
Cyber Cities: Milwaukee ranks 34th nationally in high-tech employment
Milwaukee, Wis. - There are a number of initiatives to promote technology job growth in Milwaukee, including the new Milwaukee-Institute and more intense efforts to transfer technology out of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, but a new report on the nation's Cyber Cities is providing even more justification for them.
June 19, 2008 Small Business Times
State attracting more early-stage business investments
For years Wisconsin has struggled to attract angel investors and venture capital, but a new report indicates the situation is improving.
June 16, 2008 Small Business Times
Export Assistance Center moves to MSOE
The U.S. Commercial Service - Milwaukee Export Assistance Center, a division of the U.S. Department of Commerce, recently relocated to the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) campus. For the full story, please go to the Small Business Times:
June 9, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Working on a band of angels
A growing number of wealthy Wisconsin investors are funding young companies. Now they need to band together. The state has 20 angel investing groups, compared with six just three years ago, according to the Wisconsin Angel Network.
June 4, 2008 Business Journal of Milwaukee
Milwaukee companies among 'most ethical'
Five Milwaukee-area companies have been named among the world's most ethical companies by business publication Ethisphere Magazine.
June 2, 2008 The Journal Times
Local firm saves money, cuts pollution with new trucks
Kranz Inc. will save money as a result of converting its truck fleet to engines that pollute less. The Racine company at 2200 DeKoven Ave. delivers janitorial, sanitary and paper supplies regionally to institutions, municipalities and private companies. . . . Kranz owner and Chief Executive Officer Jeff Neubauer said the move is part of the company’s ongoing series of sustainability initiatives. Collectively, the company calls the effort Kranz Green.
May 20, 2008 Small Business Times
Economic stimulus package includes incentives for businesses
The Economic Stimulus Act of 2008, best known for its recently-distributed economic stimulus checks for individuals, also contains several incentives for businesses. One incentive within the act allows for the deduction of 50 percent of the depreciation of new property used for the business, said Paul Senger, a shareholder and CPA with Brookfield-based Winter, Kloman, Moter & Repp S.C.
May 15, 2008 The Journal Times
Gordon Kacala: Racine County Economic Development Corp. celebrates 25th anniversary
While it’s not quite the Green Bay Packers Ice Bowl Game of 1967, when you talk to folks around the county about the Wingspread conference that recommended the creation of the Racine County Economic Development Corp. in 1983, a lot of folks seemed to have been there. . . . Community leaders, however, had a vision for a proactive business development organization that would be organized differently than others across the country.
May 15, 2008 Small Business Times
Wisconsin Legislature approves Great Lakes Water Compact
With Gov. Jim Doyle's expected signature, Wisconsin will soon become the fifth state to sign the Great Lakes Water Compact. The compact was approved by a 96-1 vote in the Wisconsin Assembly and a 32-1 vote in the Senate.
April 23, 2008 Small Business Times
New web tool connects Wisconsin businesses to federal contracts
A new web-based tool is available for Wisconsin companies to identify specific opportunities for doing business with the federal government.
The web site, www.B2Gconnect.org, is part of the continuing work of the Wisconsin Procurement Institute to return more federal dollars to the state via business contracts.
April 22, 2008 The Journal Times
Masonry Specialists moving into larger headquarters
TOWN OF DOVER — This will be a year of change and growth for Masonry Specialists, a local company that does commercial brick, block and stone installations.
April 19, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Racine – Mayor Becker’s ‘State of the City’ address
Mayor Becker encourages a regional approach to growth and support for continuing education and homeownership. For the full story, please go to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:
For Becker’s full state of the city speech, please go to www.cityofracine.org April 18, 2008 Small Business Times
The Boomerang Effect - Wisconsin manufacturers win back overseas business
As the 21st century began, China loomed as an ominous threat to manufacturers in Wisconsin and across the United States. The common refrain was that American manufacturers could not compete with China’s low-cost labor and lack of environmental or labor standards. . . . However, many manufacturers in southeastern Wisconsin are not only dealing with global competition, but they are they’re beating it. For the full story, please go to the Small Business Times:
April 18, 2008 Small Business Times
Manufacturers thrive by building brands
The second-quarter Business Outlook Survey released recently by the Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce showed that many businesses are pessimistic about their prospects. However, the story was different in manufacturing: While 50 percent of companies overall predicted that sales for the second quarter will be down this year, 68 percent of manufacturers forecasted solid growth. Why are manufacturers feeling more optimistic – even as they face intensifying global competition? Fro the full story, please go to the Small Business Times:
April 18, 2008 Milwaukee Business Journal
WWBIC poised for increased loans
The Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative (WWBIC) is anticipating an increase in requests for loans by small businesses as banks tighten their lending requirements.
April 9, 2008 The Journal Times
Gordon Kacala: Education still the key
Throughout southeastern Wisconsin, there is significant interest in working together to solve regional economic development problems. . . . Working together to identify solutions just makes sense. Of particular interest throughout the region is education. Specifically, in this case, the teaching of science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM. Economic development interests across the region are especially interested in the issue of attracting, retaining and educating students in STEM disciplines to the benefit of employers.
April 9, 2008 Small Business Times
State legislators reach agreement on Great Lakes Water Compact
Gov. Jim Doyle announced today that he and Wisconsin legislators have reached an agreement on the Great Lakes Water Compact. Doyle said he will call for a special session on April 17 for the Legislature to adopt the compact. For the full story, please go to the Small Business Times:
April 9. 2008 Small Business Times Real Estate Weekly
Scherrer Construction forms development subsidiary
Burlington-based Scherrer Construction Co. Inc. recently announced that it has created a subsidiary called Scherrer Development Group that will provide development services. Scherrer Development Group will offer development, design and construction services, financing/investment services and property management and leasing.
April 8, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Living a dream: Tour will fire up aspiring students
A national tour aiming to get young people revved up about entrepreneurship will roll into Kenosha today. The Extreme Entrepreneurship Tour is run by Michael Simmons, 26, and Sheena Lindahl, 25. The couple, who met when they were students at New York University, say their event is the first-ever national collegiate entrepreneurial tour. It combines advice from successful young entrepreneurs, a workshop designed to inspire action, a speed networking event and panel discussion with lots of cheerleading to push attendees into acting on their dreams.
April 7, 2008 The Journal Times
Spee-Dee-ing toward a bigger future
YORKVILLE — More elbow room is already making a big difference for the growing Spee-Dee Packaging. The privately owned manufacturer of filling and measuring equipment has been in Grandview Business Park for about a month since moving from 9950 Durand Ave. The new location, at 1360 Grandview Parkway, has about 25,000 square feet — double that of the previous location. The warehouse is no longer separate from everything else.
April 5, 2008 The Journal Times
Speaker encourages college students to be entrepeneurs
Michael Simmons, who started his first business when he was 16, will be the next Sustainable Community Series speaker. The New York City resident, now 26, is co-founder and chief executive officer of Extreme Entrepreneurship Education, which visits the University of Wisconsin-Parkside Tuesday. He is also author of “The Student Success Manifesto: How to Create a Life of Passion, Purpose and Prosperity.” He will speak at the SC Johnson Golden Rondelle Theater, 1525 Howe St., from 5:30-7 p.m. Tuesday. The program is free; call (262) 260-2154 to RSVP.
April 5, 2008 The Journal Times
RAMAC announces Excellence in Business awards
It’s that time of year again when Racine Area Manufacturers and Commerce bestows its RAMAC Excellence in Business awards. Most of these honors are given in partnership with local organizations.
April 2, 2008 Milwaukee Business Journal
$2.5 M grant to Southeast Wisconsin’s Regional Workforce Alliance
The U.S. Department of Labor WIRED grant will be used to invest in innovative workforce training partnerships. The Milwaukee 7 and the Regional Workforce Alliance will be holding an informational forum for interested parties on Friday, April 11th from 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
April 2, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Wisconsin moves to No. 3 nationwide in technology sector employment
The American Electronics Association released its 11th Annual Cyberstates Report on the technology sector, providing a state-by-state overview. “Wisconsin hosts the nation's third-largest cluster of medical-equipment manufacturers as measured by employment (5,800 jobs), behind No. 1 California (13,100) and No. 2 Minnesota (12,600),” according to an article in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:
April 1, 2008 Printing Impressions
HGI Co. — Completing a Triple PlayHOW’S THIS for a five-year plan? Buy three companies—web offset, sheetfed and digital— and meld their operations, people and cultures into a cohesive whole.
March 30, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Business Awards – Racine County Manufacturing
Midland Container, Franksville, earned the Gold Award in the semi-permanent category for tobacco for its Red Man counter display, which was produced in conjunction with Benchmarc Display for Swedish Match of North America. The award was presented by POPAI, the global association for retail marketing. For the list of award recipients in all categories, please go to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:
March 27, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Wisconsin’s healthcare ranks 2nd in U.S.Wisconsin has been ranked among the top states since the federal Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality has been measuring quality on approximately 200 independent measures for the past four years. Wisconsin’s score, slightly less than Minnesota’s this year, was number one last year.
March 26, 2008 Business Journal
Grant awarded to SE Wisconsin Workforce Development Board for training
The Wisconsin Department of Development has awarded $100,000 to the Southeast Wisconsin Workforce Development Board in support of Gateway Technical College’s “The Future is Now” project. The grant is from Governor Doyle’s Emerging Industries Skills Partnership initiative and will provide training for CNC (computer numerical control) operation and set up skills in the three county region Gateway serves.
March 25, 2008 Wisconsin Department of Commerce Announcement
Governor Doyle Launches Clean Energy WisconsinA plan for Energy Independence
Governor Jim Doyle today launched Clean Energy Wisconsin, his strategy to strengthen Wisconsin's energy future. This comprehensive plan moves Wisconsin forward by promoting renewable energy, creating new jobs, increasing energy security and efficiency, and improving the environment. . . Governor Doyle also announced today that the Department of Commerce will soon begin taking applications from businesses and researchers for financial assistance from the new Wisconsin Energy Independence Fund. The application period for the first round of funding will run from April 1 to June 2, 2008. The department expects to award $15 million annually in grants and loans for research and development, commercialization or adoption of new technologies, and supply chain development.
For application materials and more information about the Wisconsin Energy Independence Fund and a program fact sheet, visit http://commerce.wi.gov/renewableenergy.
March 18, 2008 Small Business Times
Johnson Bank to expand into Wausau
Johnson Bank, a member of the Racine-based Johnson Financial Group, will open a new loan production office in Wausau next Monday. The 3,500-square-foot loan production office, to be located in downtown Wausau, will be the bank's first entry into the Wausau market, and will focus on building commercial banking, private banking, cash management, insurance and investments, said Brad Quade, Milwaukee regional president of Johnson Bank.
March 17, 2008 Small Business Times
Ruud Lighting to launch new division this summerRuud Lighting Inc., a Racine-based manufacturer of lighting products, will launch KramerLED, a new interior LED lighting division, in May. Orders will begin shipping by late July or early August, said Alan Ruud, president and chief executive officer of the company.
March 15, 2008 The Journal Times
Lakefront project reaches for the sky
A condominium/hotel proposal that would dwarf the courthouse, called Virginia Towers, will soon go before the City of Racine for consideration. At 255 feet above street level, it would easily be the tallest building in Racine, towering 100 feet above the courthouse.
March 11, 2008 Milwaukee Business Journal
Manpower indicates possible growth for the Milwaukee area
The most recent data from Manpower’s Unemployment Outlook Survey tends to demonstrate a “wait and see” attitude among employers rather than a steep recessionary reaction to the downturn.
February 28, 2008 Small Business Times
Modine to ramp up production in China
Modine Manufacturing Co., a Racine-based provider of thermal management technology and solutions, announced today it has landed $14 million in contracts to produce exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) coolers for diesel engines for Great Wall Motor in Baoding, Hebei Province, China.
February 26, 2008 The Journal Times
Racine's Ruud Lighting is at forefront of industry's changing technology
Ruud Lighting has good reason to believe this country is on the brink of a revolution in lighting technology, with Ruud as the vanguard.
February 25, 2008 Small Business Times
Vinyl product maker taps consumer market for growth
Racine-based Dynaseal Inc. has manufactured vinyl binders, CD holders, padfolios, zip-top bags, bookmarks, convention badge holders and many other vinyl products for decades.
February 22, 2008 Small Business Times
State grant will help redevelop brownfield site in Sturtevant
RKB Enterprises LLC in Sturtevant will receive a Blight Elimination and Brownfield Redevelopment (BEBR) grant of $325,000 from the Wisconsin Department of Commerce to help remediate a 13-acre site and create 25 new full-time jobs.
Febrauary 21, 2008 Small Business Times
Wisconsin's international exports are soaring
Wisconsin's exports increased by 11.8 percent to a record $19.2 billion in 2007, and Wisconsin now ranks as the 19th-largest exporting state in the nation, an improvement from its 21st ranking in 2006.
February 18, 2008 Small Business Times
Downtown Racine to celebrate 'Sphere Madness'
"Sphere Madness" has been chosen by the Downtown Racine Corp. as the name for its 2008 Public Art Event.
February 14, 2008 Small Business Times
Modine lands new engine cooling contracts
Modine Manufacturing Co., a Racine-based provider of thermal management technology and solutions, announced today that has been awarded a series of contracts to supply exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) cooling solutions to a variety of customers, with a combined value of $125 million in annual revenues.
February 6, 2008 Small Business Times
Real Estate Odds and Ends
The Downtown Racine Corporation recently honored The Harbor at State and Main with the 2007 Downtown Achievement Brick & Mortar Award. The Brick & Mortar award recognizes a building or property that has helped to revitalize the area and bring new residents to Downtown Racine. The Harbor at State and Main (located in downtown Racine at the corner of State and Main Streets) is an urban infill project that transformed an abandoned industrial site into a mixed-used development that includes 84 apartment units, 19 condominium units, and 16,500 square feet of retail space. Harbor at State and Main was developed by Madison-based Gorman & Company and designed by Milwaukee-based Eptein Uhen Architects.
February 5, 2008 Small Business Times
SBT to present the "Next Stage" M&A Forum
Small Business Times will conduct aa M&A Forum, titled " The Next Stage," on March 27, from 7:30 - 11:00 a.m. at the Pfister Hotel, 424 E. Wisconsin Ave.
Thousands of Wisconsin businesses are owned and managed by baby boomers who will soon be reaching the age of retirement. What then? What will be the "next stage" for their business? The event will examine different exit strategies, including recapitalizations, employee stock ownership programs, management buyouts, sale to private equity firms, mergers with strategic partners and more.
February 5, 2008
Small Business Times
Venture capital grew in '07, has promise this yearWhile Wisconsin attracted a fraction of the $29.4 billion in total U.S. venture capital invested in 2007, the state's share is growing. Last year, venture capitalists invested $87.6 million in Wisconsin companies, according to a MoneyTree report issued by PriceWaterhouseCoopers and the National Venture Capital Association. In 2006, VCs invested $72 million, the report states.
January 24, 2008 Small Business Times
Doyle unveils plans to grow state’s economy
In his State of the State Address last night, Gov. Jim Doyle unveiled his plans to grow Wisconsin’s economy. Doyle said the state faces challenges, including revenue shortfalls, and must cut state spending, work to boost state businesses and reform health care.
January/February, 2008 Trade & Industry Development
Focus on Wisconsin
Trade & Industry touts Wisconsin as a growing “hub” for the biotechnology and medical device industry, citing “a strong network of partners and supporters” and a “continued commitment to research, education and technology transfer” as driving forces. Wisconsin’s commitment to investing in the life sciences will continue to propel the state forward in these crucial areas.
January 23, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Poll finds support for lakes compact
Eighty percent polled believed the Great Lakes should be protected through the Great Lakes Compact Law. Fear that the Great Lakes water supply would dwindle are impacting several states abutting the lakes as they work to pass legislation to protect fresh water access by neighboring communities and states out west.
January 22, 2008 BellaOnline.com
A Trip to Racine, Wisconsin
Racine, Wisconsin is located right on Lake Michigan just a couple of hours north of Chicago, Illinois and little more than a half hour south of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. It’s a beautiful city with an historical downtown area. Venture out toward the lake and you’ll think you’ve travelled far. The focus near the lake is much more modern and new.
January 21, 2008 The Journal Times
New SCJ center to ease overflow
STURTEVANT — SC Johnson will move some of its warehousing operations into a new, $20 million distribution center to be built this year. The 432,000-square-foot facility will go into construction this spring along the southern edge of Renaissance Business Park, (On Highway 20, near Highway H) officials said.
January 21, 2008 The Journal Times
Two Racine Johnson companies make top 50 in Fortune's best workplaces list
Fortune has placed two local Johnson family companies among the 50 best places in the country to work. SC Johnson, the Racine-based consumer products manufacturer, ranked No. 27 on Fortune’s 11th annual list of the best companies to work for.
January 21, 2008 Business Journal of Milwaukee
Wisconsin healthcare start-ups investments double over 2006
Wisconsin healthcare start-ups received $ 56.2 million in investments through venture capital firms this year.
January 20, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Mount Pleasant preparing for developments
The Village of Mount Pleasant is poised for millions of dollars of development in 2008. Plans to install the necessary infrastructure for developing business parks at Interstate 94 and Highway 20 will be implemented early this year to prepare for HSA’s projects.
January 19, 2008 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Conglomerate, Siemens AG of Germany, chooses Wisconsin as water technologies global R&D center
Siemens has two subsidiaries that create the most likely headquarters for water technology engineering. The southeastern Wisconsin region, comprised of seven counties that make up the Milwaukee 7 economic development consortium, and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee are pursuing efforts to build on water technologies’ role and importance for the future.
January 18, 2008 Business Journal of Milwaukee
How to hire a customs brokerCustoms Broker professionals have the know-how to meet the stringent rules and regulations required to import and export products world-wide.
January 16, 2008 Small Business Times
Doyle launches Next Generation Manufacturing plan
Gov. Jim Doyle announced a plan this week to help propel Wisconsin manufacturers into the next generation by focusing on efficiency and lean manufacturing principles.
January 16, 2008 Small Business Times
Wisconsin companies invited to Midwest Venture Summit
Wisconsin companies hoping to present at the 2008 Midwest Venture Summit in Chicago must submit their business plans by Jan. 30 for a chance to join companies that have raised more than $222 million in private equity funding in past years.
January 14, 2008 Small Business Times
Governor's Business Plan Contest seek entrants
The State of Wisconsin has launched its 2008 Governor's Business Plan Contest to encourage entrepreneurs in the creation, start-up and early-growth stages of high-tech businesses. Participants have the chance to win seed capital, services that will help them launch their businesses and a grand prize worth $50,000.
January 14, 2008 Small Business Times
Forum will focus on business emergencies
Corporate executives are invited to attend a special forum on "Business Preparedness and Emergency Planning," which will take place at the Waukesha County Technical College's Richard T. Anderson Education Center, 800 Main Street, Pewaukee, on Monday, Jan. 14. The forum is scheduled for 7:30 a.m. to noon. The cost to attend the event is $50 per person. Seating is limited. RSVP by Friday, Jan. 4.
January 11, 2008 Wisconsin Technology Network
Tech transfer results in plant to produce cholesterol-reducing dairy ingredient
The Center for Advanced Technology & Innovation has announced that Alliance Enterprises of Southeastern Wisconsin has begun construction of a production plant for the research and development of Benelact, a new dairy ingredient that extracts cholesterol from milk. The project represents an estimated $1.5 million investment.
January 10, 2008 The Journal Times
Alliance Enterprises constructing a production plant at CATI Inc.
The Center for Advanced Technology & Innovation announced today that Alliance Enterprises of SE Wisconsin, LLC is constructing a production plant at CATI Inc. The plant will be used for the research and development of Benelact, a new, healthy dairy ingredient based on patented technology licensed from CATI. Its headquarters will be the CATI Center, a business incubator and education facility founded in 2003 through a partnership with Gateway Technical College and CATI Inc.
January 10, 2008 The Journal Times
Corner of highways 20 and 31 to have retail stores by summer
MOUNT PLEASANT — A retail project seven years in the making will soon emerge at one of the area’s busiest corners — highways 20 and 31. Big Bend Development of Brookfield has begun construction of a 16,250-square-foot retail center at the intersection’s northwest corner. Four tenants are already committed, including two restaurants new to Racine County.
January 9, 2008 The Journal Times
City receives $196,000 grant for uptown revitalization program
The city has landed a $196,000 federal grant to help charge its Uptown revitalization program. The grant, from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, or HUD, was included in the Omnibus spending bill that President Bush signed Dec. 26. It will be used by the Racine Redevelopment Authority for the purchase and renovation of buildings in the Uptown commercial area.
January 8, 2008 Small Business Times
Governor launches program to encourage business innovation
Gov. Jim Doyle on Tuesday unveiled a new program, Innovate Wisconsin, which will offer incentives for private businesses to focus on future breakthroughs by encouraging them to invest in research and development.
January 7, 2008 Business Journal of Milwaukee
Gov. Doyle to expand early-stage investment
Governor Doyle announced the expansion of “Accelerate Wisconsin,” to increase investments and support start-up companies.
January 5, 2008 The Journal Times
Horizon filled with big ideas: National contractor plans to hire more employees, expand Mount Pleasant hub
Patrick Christensen unrolls a wide organizational chart on his wide desk to show how Horizon Retail Construction is set up. In the center portion are the existing positions in the company that was founded in 1993. And off to the sides are many dozens more jobs that Christensen, president and majority owner, plans to add to the company within the next five years.
January 5, 2008 The Journal Times
Horizon Retail Construction is ready to build
From its lighting, heating and cooling systems to its landscaping, the new Horizon Retail Construction headquarters will be a model of modern sustainability. Construction just began on the estimated $8 million, 75,000-square-foot structure. Horizon President and majority owner Patrick Christensen hopes Horizon will move into the stone and steel building in November.
December 17, 2007 Small Business Times
QPS survey forecasts strong 2008
Nearly three-fourths of local employers recently surveyed by Brookfield-based QPS Companies Inc. believe 2008 will be a year of average to above average growth and development for their companies.
December 16, 2007 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Union Grove creates facade grant program to boost downtownThrough the combined efforts of the Village and three local banks, downtown businesses will have access to both grants and low interest loans to make facade improvements.
December 13, 2007 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Milwaukee Area Technical College promotes manufacturing jobs
MATC, as well as the Milwaukee 7 group, are marketing high-paying technical manufacturing jobs as a mainstay in southeast Wisconsin. Manufacturing is not going away, and there is an increasing need for technology related skills for these positions. The Milwaukee 7 is working to join the ranks of the National Association of Manufacturers to promote manufacturing through the “Dream It. Do It.” Campaign.
December 12, 2007 The Journal Times
Gordon Kacala: Companies making good use of WMEP's expanded services
Manufacturers in Racine County are paying attention when it comes to responding to the marketplace. Both large and small companies that Racine County Economic Development Corp. staff visit with during the year are changing. The employers, many of whom have been with us for decades, are now driven by technology and innovation, world markets and better ways of doing business.
December 8, 2007 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Sturtevant warehouse tenant will be SC Johnson
Village of Sturtevant officials indicated SC Johnson will become the tenant in the warehouse that’s slated for construction just south of the Renaissance Business Park.
December 7, 2007 Business Journal of Milwaukee
Milwaukee fares well in America’s fun places survey
Bizjournals surveyed the top 50 urban markets to determine the fun factor. New York ranked first, Boston second . . . Milwaukee came in at 14th!
December 5, 2007 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Milwaukee beats Shanghai in first round for large manufacturer
C&D Technologies has made a tentative commitment to bring a new manufacturing research facility and up to 150 jobs the Milwaukee if it can obtain the federal funding to help with the initial investment over the first 3-4 years.
December 5, 2007 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
University of Wisconsin system hits record enrollments
A record of 173,313 students have enrolled this fall semester. The largest increase was in the UW-Milwaukee campus, adding more than 1,000 with freshman enrollment almost doubled this year.
December 5, 2007 Business Journal
Law office, Foley & Lardner LLP opens office in Shanghai
Foley & Lardner was granted a license to practice in the People’s Republic of China by the Ministry of Justice. The law firm’s focus will be on intellectual property, protection of patents, trademark and copyright assets.
December 2, 2007 The Plain Dealer, Cleveland OH
Milwaukee region’s leaders noticed for forward thinking
Milwaukee’s work to protect the Great Lakes and anticipate emerging needs and industries is being noted by surrounding states.
December 1, 2007 Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
Just call us Print U.S.A.31 of top 400 printing companies have roots in Wisconsin
Earlier this month, Hi-Liter Graphics/Inland Graphics dedicated a new press at its Burlington plant, part of $10 million in new equipment the company has added in the last four years, as it more than tripled sales and more than doubled employment.
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