We are seeing the positive results of our bold reforms to spur Wisconsin’s economy every day.
The state’s unemployment rate is the lowest it has been since 2008 and more than 150,000 private-sector jobs have been created since we’ve taken office. More than 30,000 new businesses have started since December 2010, and a just-released Gallup ranking of state job markets has Wisconsin tied for second in the nation for best hiring climate.
In 2014, Wisconsin companies exported $23.4 billion in goods worldwide – an all-time high for the state and an 18 percent jump over four years ago. We’ve also reformed state government to place a greater emphasis on job growth and economic development, and have provided more than $2 billion in tax relief to Wisconsin’s families, workers, senior citizens, and business owners.
Wisconsin’s business leaders are taking note of the changes we’ve implemented – as well as the positive results of those changes. In 2010, just 10 percent of job creators surveyed by the state chamber thought Wisconsin was headed in the right direction. Today, 96 percent feel that way.
I’m proud of the reforms we’ve enacted and the way in which state government is working with businesses around Wisconsin to continue moving our economy forward. In order to continue that success, the state must respond quickly to the needs and concerns of the business community, and help companies of all sizes and all industries address the challenges of the 21st century.
As I travel around the state, I hear business leaders talk about the importance of ensuring that Wisconsin continue to maintain a skilled and dedicated workforce that can fill the jobs of today and tomorrow. That’s why we’ve increased investments in working training by more than $100 million to make certain the current and future workers are qualified for the jobs that Wisconsin companies need to fill.
Once again this year, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) is working with BizTimes Media to showcase the state’s numerous attributes and to the highlight some of the successes we’re seeing in all segments of our economy. In addition to those stories, you will find information on the programs and resources available to help companies looking to startup, expand or relocate operations in Wisconsin, and I urge you to take advantage of those tools to help maximize your business’ success.
The economic successes we’ve experienced over the last few years are in large part a result of the strong partnership that exists between state government and the business community. I look forward to continue to building upon that partnership as we work together to address the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Yours sincerely,
Governor Scott Walker
