WAUWATOSA–State Representative Robyn Vining (D-Wauwatosa), Representative Francesca Hong (D-Madison), Representative Alex Joers (D-Waunakee) and State Senator Brad Pfaff (D-Onalaska) introduced a bill to create an online one-stop-shop for Wisconsinites to access information on starting, maintaining, and growing a small business. This website creates a more streamlined process with state agencies to make it easier to start and run a business in Wisconsin. Rep. Vining announced this legislation at a roundtable with Main Street Alliance and local business owners and released the following statement:
“Wisconsin is a small business state. As a small business creator myself, I understand what it takes to start and run your own business from the ground up. Many state agencies work with small businesses in different ways, but the information and processes are not centralized.
“This bill creates a one-stop-shop for business owners to access information on bidding opportunities, economic development programs, educational and networking opportunities, licensing or permit requirements, and taxes and fees associated with their businesses.
“This is the fourth time I have authored and introduced this bill. It received a hearing in the Senate Committee on Insurance and Small Business in 2023, and I am hopeful we can get it passed this session.
“Small businesses are getting hit hard right now by tariffs, rising healthcare costs, lack of affordable and accessible childcare, and many other issues. Our conversation at the roundtable reinforced that making simple changes to the state’s online repository of business information, licensing, and other processes makes it easier for Wisconsinites to start, maintain, and grow a small business.
This bill was introduced during a roundtable hosted by Rep. Robyn Vining and Main Street Alliance with local small businesses. Shawn Phetteplace, National Campaigns Director for the Main Street Alliance made the following statement:
“Main Street business owners tell us the same thing frequently: navigating multiple agencies and websites wastes time they could be spending running their businesses. This legislation is a simple, commonsense step that would make government work better for small businesses. Let’s get it done.”
Rep. Vining represents the 13th Assembly District, which includes Elm Grove, and parts of Wauwatosa and Brookfield. For more information visit Rep. Vining’s website here.
