Walker gives loans to growing Racine manufacturers

Gov. Scott Walker today announced that BRP US Inc. and DeltaHawk Engines Inc. have received a total of $1.7 million in loans from the Wisconsin Department of Commerce to assist job-creating projects in Racine County.
“Manufacturing is a cornerstone of the Wisconsin economy and will be a key element in driving our overall recovery efforts,” Walker said. “I am pleased that we could help these companies generate jobs and new investment.”
“This additional investment further demonstrates BRP’s commitment to the Evinrude brand,” said Jose Boisjoli, president and chief executive officer of BRP US Inc. “One site allows BRP to bring all Evinrude-related employees under one roof to better serve its network and its customers worldwide.”
“DeltaHawk Engines is very pleased to be receiving loans from Commerce to assist with the start-up of our aviation engine production here in Racine, Wisconsin,” said Dennis Webb, president of Racine-based DeltaHawk.  “We have substantial interest in our technology and have received orders from aircraft companies, the military and individuals, both in the U.S. and from around the world.”
“These are exactly the kinds of businesses we want to help grow in Racine County,” said Racine County Executive Bill McReynolds.  “DeltaHawk is a dynamic, innovative enterprise, born and bred right here.  BRP USA has quickly become a vital part of local manufacturing. The company’s move of additional operations into Racine County shows our economic vitality.”
DeltaHawk Engines received a $400,000 State Energy Program loan and a $320,000 capital finance loan.  The company, established in 2006, will manufacture light-weight, fuel-efficient, 100- to 650-horsepower aviation engines. The  project is expected to create 100 jobs and represent $2.3 million in investment.
BRP US Inc., a subsidiary of Bombardier Recreational Products Inc., received a $1 million Wisconsin Development Fund loan to purchase equipment for its facility in Sturtevant, which manufactures Evinrude outboard engines.  The project is expected to create 136 jobs and represents a $15-million investment.
– BizTimes Milwaukee