Wisconsin must expand and energize its commitment to economic development. The state’s future vitality can only be secured by pursuing a comprehensive, multi-faceted strategic vision that includes the recruitment of new companies, but which also recognizes the urgent need to empower new entrepreneurs and focus on expanding existing businesses.

Progress has been made, but much remains to be done.

Wisconsin needs, for example, to do a better job of identifying, supporting and mentoring entrepreneurs. We must identify and attract more investment capital, particularly second-stage capital. We need to continue to enhance and align the relationship between the tremendous research capacity housed in our universities and colleges, and the development and marketing power and skills at work in our business communities. We should move in tangible ways to recognize the importance of Wisconsin’s special quality of life to the attraction and retention of the 21st century work force we need.

These are just a few of the issues awaiting Wisconsin’s leaders. The Wisconsin Business Council is starting the discussion today.