About Commerce

The Wisconsin Department of Commerce is the state's leading agency for fostering the growth and diversification of the economy of the state. The mission of the department is to drive retention and creation of quality jobs and promote safe, healthy communities. This mission is carried out through the administration of statewide business development programs, including export development assistance, minority- and women-owned business certification, entrepreneurship services, and economic development financing programs. The Department also manages the small business environmental assistance program, markets the state, invests in community development, and works to prevent homelessness. The Department protects the safety, health and welfare of residents through the sampling and testing of petroleum products and tank systems; management of the state's largest environmental fund; administration of laws related to buildings and structures, plumbing and private sewage, ground water protection and mechanical systems; occupational certifications and licenses; and administration of the Wisconsin Fund for Private Onsite Wastewater Treatment Systems.

A to Z Index
Use this feature to find information on the Department of Commerce website by topic.

Agency Budget Request 2011 - 2013 Biennium (1.7 MB pdf)

2009-2011 Biennial Budget Fact Sheet (203 KB pdf)

2007-2009 Biennial Report (297 KB pdf)

Boards, Councils & Committees
The Department has ten councils and four boards attached to it by statute, as well as 24 non-statutory councils, committees and workgroups.

Contact Information
We want to be able to respond quickly to your questions and comments so please direct them to the program area that best matches your request.

Employment
Learn about employment opportunities at the Department of Commerce and throughout Wisconsin.

Leadership
The Secretary of Commerce administers the department, aided by the Deputy Secretary and the Executive Assistant. The Secretary is appointed by the Governor and is a member of the Governor's Cabinet.

Logo Guidelines
View and download various electronic versions of the Commerce logo.

Office Locations
The Department of Commerce has offices throughout Wisconsin. Find the one near you.

Open Records & Information Access
Select the appropriate link for information on obtaining open records:

• Safety and Buildings, Environmental and Regulatory Services or Housing
• Business Development or Community Development

Administrative Rule Complaint Form
The form below allows you to submit your concerns regarding any "unnecessarily burdensome" administrative rule or guidelines.

Organization
The department is made up of the Office of the Secretary and six divisions - Administrative Services, Business Development, Community Development, Environmental and Regulatory Services, Global Ventures, and Safety and Buildings.