New round of WEDC grants to focus on aid to diverse entrepreneurs

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) plans to award a total of roughly $200,000 in matching grants to groups working to increase entrepreneurship opportunities for communities of color, women, veterans and LGBTQ individuals.

The competitive awards are the second phase of WEDC’s 2021 Entrepreneurship Support Grants. They are the first awards of this type designed specifically for groups helping to create and grow diversely owned businesses in Wisconsin.

“We know the COVID-19 pandemic has taken a huge toll on communities of color and that women in particular were forced out of the workforce by this crisis,” said Missy Hughes, WEDC secretary and CEO. “These grants are targeting the programs that can help people of color, women, veterans and LGBTQ community members move forward in the economy as entrepreneurs.”

WEDC will announce the winners of the first round of 2021 Entrepreneurship Support Grants soon. The agency expects to award more than $500,000 to organizations serving more than 800 entrepreneurs of all backgrounds.

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