WI AB1078

Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) must establish an Innovation Grant Program providing $5 million annually ($10 million per biennium) to private nonprofit colleges that are members of the Wisconsin Association of Independent Colleges and Universities.

Grants fund new academic programs, community partnerships, and infrastructure projects designed to meet workforce needs and benefit the broader public.

Grant recipients must provide matching funds at least equal to the grant amount and demonstrate a pathway for the program or project to become self-sustaining through tuition, fees, or other revenue.

No single institution may receive more than 10 percent of the total grant funds awarded under the program.