Two tech-oriented groups were quick to endorse Gov. Tony Evers’ plan for a $100 million state-backed venture capital fund when he first pitched the proposal in February.

One was the Wisconsin Technology Council, which has been the state’s leading voice on startup policy for more than 20 years.

The other was the Wisconsin Startup Coalition, a group formed last year that is focused on advocating for entrepreneurs and the state’s early-stage ecosystem.

How planned $100-million state venture investment can help Wisconsin – Is your state ready for a state venture fund?

While it’s new to the governor’s budget bill, similar investments have been made by other states in the Midwest and around the country. Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Michigan all have larger funds of funds, although their formats and funding sources vary.

Startup founders and investors form Wisconsin Startup Coalition

Several startup founders and investors from around the state have formed the “Wisconsin Startup Coalition,” an organization whose mission is to advocate for policies that advance growth in Wisconsin’s startup ecosystem.