Wisconsin Department of Commerce

Wisconsin Department of Commerce

Tommy G. Thompson Center
Agency overview
Formed1979
Preceding agencies
  • Wisconsin Department of Local Affairs and Development (1967–1979)
  • Wisconsin Department of Business Development (1971–1979)
Dissolved2011
Superseding agencies
JurisdictionWisconsin
HeadquartersTommy G. Thompson Center
201 W. Washington Ave., Madison, Wisconsin 53707
Employees394.7
Annual budget$387,061,200 (2007-2009)
Agency executive
  • Secretary
Websitehttp://commerce.wi.gov

The Wisconsin Department of Commerce was a department in the executive branch of the Government of Wisconsin. It was established as the Wisconsin Department of Development in 1979, renamed to the Department of Commerce in 1995, and abolished in 2011. The department was responsible for implementing and overseeing the economic development programs for Wisconsin through consultation, technical assistance, and relocation assistance. It also administered the distribution of federal economic assistance programs to local governments and businesses, and acts as a go-between for businesses and other government agencies. The department also enforced laws regarding safety and sanitation in buildings, petroleum products, and petroleum tanks. It also gave housing assistance to low income families.

The Department of Commerce was administered by the Wisconsin Secretary of Commerce, who was appointed by the governor with the advice and consent of the Wisconsin Senate.