Fill and Sign the Bank of America Forms 3rd Party Authorization

“Our state’s energy independence strategy relies on our ability to become a leader in ground-breaking technology to make alternative energies more affordable and available to all Wisconsin citizens.” Governor Jim Doyle In July 2006, Governor Jim Doyle made an historic announcement, the “Declaration of Energy Independence”, charting the state on a steady course for renewable energy. A few months later, in April of 2007, Governor Doyle issued an Executive Order creating the Office of Energy Independence (OEI) that would lead the state’s effort to advance at his 25% by 2025 goal. This was the beginning of an effort to become the nation’s leader in the drive toward energy independence, moving us away from our addiction on foreign oil. Specifically, the order committed Wisconsin to a goal of supplying 25% of its electric power and transportation fuels from renewable resources by 2025. The OEI is led by Executive Director Judy Ziewacz. Director Ziewacz has an extensive background in economic development and government leadership. OEI serves as the state energy office, a single point of contact for individuals, businesses and local government with questions about clean energy. It is dedicated to moving Wisconsin forward in achieving the state’s energy goals through multiple partnerships. We know that the energy goals can be achieved by supporting industry through grant funding, incentives for research, and creating several innovative initiatives to move the state towards energy independence. Wisconsin Energy Independence Fund: Governor Doyle has pledged to work for $150 million over ten years to invest in clean, renewable energy technologies in Wisconsin. The first installment of this investment - the Wisconsin Energy Independence Fund - will begin by April 1, 2008. Applications for this renewable energy loan and grant program are available from the Wisconsin Department of Commerce’s website. Any Wisconsin business or researcher is eligible. Office of Energy Independence 17 West Main Street Madison, WI 53703 http://power.wisconsin.gov/ 2 • Office of Energy Independence Many financial incentives exist to help Wisconsin’s agriculture, business, industry, and community leaders move renewable energy production and use from concept to reality. An Overview of Focus on Energy Focus on Energy works with eligible Wisconsin residents and businesses to install cost effective energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Its efforts help Wisconsin residents and businesses manage rising energy costs, promote in-state economic development, protect our environment and control the state’s growing demand for electricity and natural gas. Focus on Energy is ready to share the cost of installing innovative technologies through financial incentives and grants. The following is a list of Focus on Energy grants and rewards. Please contact Focus on Energy at 1.800.762.7077 or visit focusonenergy.com. Focus on Energy Resources Learn about Financial Incentives Renewable Energy Info Library Focus on Energy provides Cash-Back Rewards and Grants for eligible Wisconsin residents and businesses to install renewable energy systems. Cash-Back Rewards typically cover 20 percent to 25 percent of the installed cost of the system, making renewable energy systems more affordable. Visit the Info Library to find information about upcoming events and workshops, renew-able energy fact sheets and case studies, links to other renewable energy related Web sites, con-tractors who install renewable energy systems, energy education, energy calculators, wind maps and wind data. Renewable Energy Yellow Pages Search Find providers of renewable energy products and services by location and technology. Wisconsin farms can reduce operating costs by installing energy efficient equipment. Maybe it’s as simple as updating barn lighting with efficient fixtures and bulbs, or upgrading to variable-speed drives on vacuum pumps. Whatever the solution, Focus on Energy can help you increase profits, reduce energy use and improve productivity through energy efficiency measures. The Focus Ag Program enables you to: ● ● ● ● ● ● Full Service Installers & Consultants Find lists of Full Service Installers, renewable energy shopping tips and to update your information in the Yellow Pages. Agriculture & Rural Business Programs Renewable Energy Market Provider Eligible business types include Focus on Energy Full Service Installers, MREA-Certified Site Assessors and Renewable Energy Consultants, Manufacturers, Dealers and Distributors serving Focus on Energy customers. Receive assistance when your compressor fails Receive assistance with your new parlor design Find your farm’s energy wasters and learn what you can do to fix them. Put new energy efficient technologies to work for you Learn about renewable energy systems, such as anaerobic digesters Get access to training, education and other state, federal and utility programs Commercial Business Programs Focus on Energy offers a range of services to owners and managers of commercial buildings, including restaurants, groceries and convenience stores, healthcare facilities and hotels. Focus provides commercial businesses in all industries the following benefits: ● Cash-Back rewards for energy efficient project implementation ● Support in developing a customized energy action plan ● New technology research that saves you money and improves productivity ● Assistance in communicating with internal audiences, contractors, and other suppliers for program implementation ● Access to Focus on Energy-sponsored training programs http://power.wisconsin.gov/ • 3 Focus on Energy Small Business Auditors Customers and companies often contact Focus on Energy requesting information on businesses that perform building audits. Focus provides a list identifying the type and size of buildings each auditor is willing to assess as well as technology experience, degrees/ certifications and any associated fees to perform the audit. Focus has sorted alphabetically by city including the geographic region the auditor services. Education and Training Programs Focus on Energy offers training on a variety of topics for Ag, Commercial, Industrial, School and Government customers. You will learn ways to cut your facility’s energy costs, enhance your productivity and boost your bottom line with these sessions. Visit www.FocusOnEnergy.com and click on the training session names below for a brief summary, scheduled dates and locations or to download a course description. To review all courses please visit www.FocusOnEnergy.com for the Focus on Energy Training Catalog for all businesses. Building Operator Certification Commercial Practical Energy Management Compressed Air Systems Best Practices Paper Drying: Emphasis on Energy Online Seminar Industrial Ventilation Systems Best Practices Smart Strategies for Healthcare Fan Systems Smart Strategies for Grocery Best Practices in Industrial Lighting Efficiency Smart Strategies for Hotels Practical Energy Management Pump Systems Steam System Best Practices Swimming Pool Best Practices HVACR Schools Focus on Energy-Grants Business & Marketing Grant: Provides financial support to organizations and businesses that provide renewable energy services for developing their business plans and marketing materials. Focus on Energy can fund up to 50% of these project costs, up to a maximum of $10,000. Feasibility Study Grant: Provides financial support for feasibility studies to determine whether renewable energy systems will work for you. The grant is intended to increase the ability of businesses and organizations to make informed decisions about using renewable energy systems by understanding and solving technical uncertainties. Focus on Energy can fund up to 50% of these project costs, up to a maximum of $10,000. Development Grant Provides financial support for large projects that are not eligible for Implementation Grants. These grants cofund complex feasibility studies, environmental permitting, financing and other development activities. Focus on Energy can fund up to 50% of the project costs, up to a maximum of $50,000. Implementation Grant: Provides financial support for developing large renewable energy systems with a capacity greater than 20kW or 5,000 therms per year. Commercial solar water heating and solar electric projects can qualify for a maximum grant of $50,000 for implementation and up to 25% of the project funding cost. Commercial wind projects can qualify for a maximum grant of $50,000 for implementation and up to 35% of the project funding cost. Biogas digesters and non-residential biomass combustion projects can qualify for a maximum grant of $250,000 for implementation and up to 25% of the project funding cost. Operations and Maintenance Archived Presentations Compressed Air Leak Detection Presentation Industrial Ventilation Webinar Presentation Focus on Energy-Rewards Wind Energy Systems: Rewards for systems with a capacity of 20kWh or less can fund up to 25% of the project cost, with a maximum reward of $35,000. Solar Electric Systems: Rewards for systems with a capacity of 20kW or less can fund up to 25% of the project cost, with a maximum reward of $35,000. Incentive for nonprofit or local government projects may be approved for up to 35%, with a maximum reward of $35,000. Non-residential Biomass Combustion Systems: Rewards can fund up to 25% of the project cost, with a maximum reward of $10,000. Solar Hot Water Systems: Rewards can fund up to 25% of the project cost, with a maximum reward of $2,500 for small systems and a maximum reward of $35,000 for systems that produce over 250 therms per year. Incentives for nonprofit or local government projects may be approved for up to 35%, with a maximum reward of $50,000. 4 • Office of Energy Independence Wisconsin Programs Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection Food Processors Competitive Energy Incentive Competitive offering for Food Processors allows you to request the amount of financial incentive you need to implement your energy efficiency project. Up to $500,000 will be awarded. More information Contact: Will.Hughes@Wisconsin.gov, 608.224.5142 DATCP- Agriculture Development and Diversification Grant The Agricultural Development and Diversification Grant Program invites proposals for projects that are likely to stimulate Wisconsin’s agricultural economy through the development and exploration of new value-added products, new markets, or new technologies in agriculture. ADD grants are awarded competitively each year. More Information Contact: mike.bandli@datcp.state.wi.us 608.224.5136 Fees: $150 + 1% of guaranteed amount. Misc: Currently operating a farm. Debt-to-asset ratio of 85% or less. Must have sufficient collateral to cover the value of the FARM loan. Must be unable to obtain conventional financing. No prior WHEDA default, and child support current. Contact: Peggy Ellis, 1.800.334.6873, http:/ /www.wheda.com Business Guarantee To develop or expand production of products using Wisconsin’s raw agricultural commodities. Equipment, land, buildings, working capital, inventory and marketing. Loan Amounts: 80% on Loans up to $750,000. Terms: Max, prime + 2.75%, 15 years for fixed assets 7 years for inventory and working capital, equity 10% for existing business and 15% for startup businesses, secured by purchased assets, additional collateral and personal guarantee possible. Fees: $200 + 1-2% of guaranteed amt. + .25% Misc: Population under 50,000, unable to obtain conventional financing, child support current. Contact: Peggy Ellis, 1.800.334.6873, http://www.wheda.com Linked Deposit Loan (LiDL) Subsidy Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority (WHEDA) Credit Relief Outreach Program (CROP) Guarantee Provides guarantees on agricultural production loans. Fund expenses related to production. Loan Amounts: $2000 to $60,000. 90% guarantee on $50,000 Terms: Max Rate - Prime + 1%, fixed for term, 100% collateral Fees: $150 Misc: 40% Debt-to-Asset, Unable to obtain conventional financing, no prior WHEDA default, and child support current Contact: Peggy Ellis, 1.800.334.6873, http:// www.wheda.com Small Business Guarantee Land, equipment, inventory, working capital, refinance existing debt at maturity including credit card debt, and soft costs (working capital) not to exceed 5% of project. Guarantee Amounts: 80% or $200,000 on loans up to $750,000 for assets or inventory 80% or $80,000 on loans up to $250,000 for working capital. Terms: Market, determined by lender - Max prime + 2.75%. 15 years for fixed assets, 7 years for inventory and permanent working capital, and 2 years for revolving working capital. Fees: $200 + 1% up to $150,000 or 2% above $150,000 of guaranteed amount + 0.25% annual servicing fee. Misc: < 50 employees, targets: daycares, businesses in a downtown storefront. Will retain or create jobs. Unable to obtain conventional financing at reasonable terms. Contact: Peggy Ellis, 1.800.334.6873, http://www.wheda.com Provides an interest rate subsidy on lender financing to women or minorities business. To purchase/improve land/buildings, improvements, machinery and equip. Loan Amounts: Minimum $10,000 and maximum $99,000 For a business more than 3 years old, the maximum subsidy is $10,000 per Full Time job created or retained. For a start-up, or acquisition or expansion of a business less than 3 years old, the subsidy at $10,000, $15,000 or $20,000 per job. Terms: Prime minus 1% for 2 years Fees: $50. Misc: Less than $500,000 in sales, equals or greater than 50% owned/controlled by a woman or ethnic minority, employs less than 25 FTE Contact: Peggy Ellis, 1.800.334.6873, http://www.wheda.com Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Clean Water Fund Program (CWFP) For local governments to modify municipal wastewater systems and to construct urban storm water best management practices Funding Level: < 35.21% of state subsidy in a biennium Terms: low interest. Bob Ramharter 608.266.3915 http://www.dnr.wi.gov/ org/caer/cfa/EL/Section/clean.html Safe Drinking Water Loan Program (SDWLP) For local governments with population < 10,000 to construct/ modify public water system. Funding Level: < 25.1% of state Farm Asset Reinvestment Management (FARM) Guarantee To expand or modernize existing farm operation. Loan Amounts: Minimum loan $10,000; no maximum. Terms: Interest rate set by lender & approved by WHEDA, 10 years for land & buildings purchase, 5 years for other and improvements, 100% collateral. http://power.wisconsin.gov/ • 5 Wisconsin Programs subsidy in a biennium Jeanne Cargill 608.267.7587 http:// www.dnr.wi.gov/org/caer/cfa/EL/Section/drinkingwater.html Small Loan Program Board of Commissioners of Public Lands water and wastewater funding for all municipalities with interest rate subsidy. Total project 8,501 lb GVWR) based on their improved fuel economy and their life-time fuel savings potential. The IRS will certify vehicles for the credit and publish qualifying credit amounts as vehicles are certified. Heavy-duty hybrid vehicles can qualify for a credit as well but are subject to incremental cost limitation. Current Tax Credit rate information is available from the IRS. Contact: Internal Revenue Service, 800.829.4933. ww.irs.govw Electric Vehicle Credit Renewable Electricity Production Credit (REPC) Also known as the Production Tax Credit, allows commercial and industrial business to take a 2 cent kWh credit (adjusted annually for inflation) for wind, closed-loop biomass, and geothermal. Electricity from open-loop biomass, small irrigation hydroelectric, landfill gas, municipal solid waste resources, and hydropower receive 1 cent/kWh credit. Contact: Internal Revenue Service 800.829.4933. www.irs.gov 5 Year Depreciation Schedule for Solar Energy Property Provides a 5-year accelerated depreciation schedule for all solar energy equipment for commercial and industrial businesses. Contact: Internal Revenue Service, 800.829.4933. www.irs.gov Residential Solar and Fuel Cell Tax Credit Provides a residential tax credit for solar water heat, photovoltaic, fuel cells and other solar electric technologies with a 30% cost credit with a maximum of $2000 for solar electric and solar water heating, and $500 per .5kW for fuel cells. Excess credits may be carried forward to succeeding tax year. Solar water heating must be certified by SRCC or by comparable entity endorsed by the state. At least half the energy used to heat the dwellings water must be Purchasers of Qualified Electric Vehicles with a 10% of the cost of the vehicle up to $4,000. This credit is scheduled to be reduced by 75% in 2006 and expire in 2007. Qualified vehicles must be powered primarily by an electric motor drawing current from batteries or other portable sources of electricity. A tax deduction of up to $100,000 per location is available for qualified electric vehicle recharging property used in a trade business. Contact: Internal Revenue Service, 800.829.4933. www.irs.gov Fuel Cell Motor Vehicle Credit Business or Personal Vehicles that meet at least Bin 5 Tier II emission levels may apply for a base tax credit of $8,000 for the purchaser of light duty fuel cell vehicles ( $10,000 < $500,000. Contact Diane Berger at 202.720.2383 or Diane.berge@usda.gov at RBCS Water and Wastewater Grant Program To construct, improve, or modify drinking water and wastewater systems, storm sewers, and solid waste disposal facilities. Awards: 75% if MHI < $37,306 health/sanitary problems exist, 45% if MHI $37,306 - $46,632. Contact Business & Community Programs, 715.345.7610, www.rurdev.usda.gov/wi Plant Feed Stock Genomics for Bioenergy Competitive Grants Program hereby announce their interest in receiving applications for genomics-based research that will lead to the improved use of biomass and plant feedstocks for the production of fuels such as ethanol or renewable chemical feedstocks. Specifically, applications are sought for fundamental research on plants that will improve biomass characteristics, biomass yield, or sustainability. Systems biology approaches to identify genetic indicators enabling plants to be efficiently bred or manipulated, or research that yields fundamental knowledge of the structure, function and organization of plant genomes leading to improved feedstock characterization and sustainability are also encouraged. Contact: Deborah Greenawalt, Office of Science Financial Assistance Program, 301.903.4074, Deb.Greenawalt@science.doe.gov Federal Programs Environmental Protection Agency Community Action For A Renewed Environment (CARE) Program (1). To support analyses, studies, evaluations, surveys, investigations, conferences, demonstrations and special purpose projects which empower communities to reduce risks from exposures to toxic pollutants in the air, in the water, and on the land through collaborative action at the local level; (2). Develop a comprehensive understanding of all sources of risk from toxics and set priorities for effective action; (3). Create self-sustaining community-based partnerships to improve local environments. Financial Assistance $75K to $350K. Contact: Regional office or Larry Weinstock, 202.564.9226, http://epa.gov/ogd/ Clean School Bus USA School districts with diesel bus fleets can apply for the Clean School Bus USA to reduce operating costs and children’s exposure to harmful diesel exhaust by limiting bus idling, implementing pollution reduction technology, improving route logistics, and switching to biodiesel. Funding up to 50% Cost share to replace school buses with ones that operate on alternative fuels or lowsulfur diesel, or up to 100% for retrofit projects. Contact: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency http://www.epa.gov/ cleanschoolbus/index.htm Construction Grants For Wastewater Treatment Works For construction of municipal wastewater treatment works including privately owned individual treatment systems, if a municipality applies on behalf of a number of such systems. Such works may serve all or portions of individual communities, metropolitan areas, or regions. A project may include, but may not be limited to, treatment of industrial wastes. Financial Assistance $100K to $15M; avg. $5M. Contact: Regional office or Benjamin Hamm, 202.564.0648, http://www.epa.gov/owm/cwfinance/index.htm Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program Contact: North Central Region SARE 13-A Activities Bldg. University of NE-Lincoln Lincoln, NE 68583-0840 402.472.7081 ncrsare@unl.edu SARE Research and Education Grants Competitive grants for sustainable agriculture research and education. Generally ranging from $30,000 to $200,000, they fund projects that usually involve scientists, producers and others in an interdisciplinary approach. Many funded projects involve onfarm research trials with crops and/or livestock; other projects have studied quality of life, agricultural marketing, integrated farming systems, and soil and water conservation. Typically include economic analysis and outreach components. Also funds education and demonstration projects, including the development of farmerto farmer networks. SARE Professional Development Program Professional Development Program provides sustainable agriculture education and outreach strategies for Cooperative Extension System agents, Natural Resources Conservation Service staff and others who work directly with farmers and ranchers. SARE Producer Grant Program Funds projects to explore and apply economically profitable, environmentally sound and socially supporting farming systems. On-farm research trials involving producer collaboration with scientists have been a component of many SARE funded projects since the program’s inception. Each administrative council offers grants that typically run between $500 and $5,000. Producer grants are available annually, with application deadlines generally in late fall or early winter. Department Of Energy 81.087 Renewable Energy Research and Development To conduct balanced research and development efforts in the following energy technologies: solar, distributed energy and electric reliability, biomass, hydrogen, fuel cells and infrastructure, wind and hydropower, hydrogen, and geothermal. Grants will be offered to develop and transfer to the nonfederal sector various renewable energy technologies. Range and Average of Financial Assistance $50K to $1M. Contact: http://www.eere.doe.gov/ Inventions and Innovation Program Offers financial and technical support once or twice each year to inventors and small businesses for promising energy saving concepts and technologies. Technologies that offer significant energy savings and future commercial market potential are eligible for support. This assistance is provided at two levels: Up to $50,000 for development of plans and up to $250,000 for development of working prototypes. Lisa Barnett, 202.586.2212, lisa.barnett@ee.doe.gov http://www.eere.doe.gov/inventions/ Plug In Hybrid Electric Vehicle (PHEV) Technology Acceleration And Deployment Activity Program This program is seeking applications for cost-shared development and demonstration of plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs). The vehicle shall be capable of charging by using the standard 110 volt outlet found in every home and building across the United States. Funding: up to $10,000,000 Contact: http://www.eere.doe.gov/ Solar Energy Grid Integration Systems (SEGIS) Program This RFP provides up to $6.25 million for the development of advanced inverters, controllers, and other balance-of-system components for photovoltaic (PV) distributed power applications. The goal of the SETP is to increase the value of PV as large numbers of systems are incorporated into the utility distribution system. Contact: http://www.eere.doe.gov/ http://power.wisconsin.gov/ • 11 Venture Capital Wisconsin Angel Investors Appletree Capital Ltd. is a Chicago-based private equity, venture capital, and merchant banking group focused on early stage, expansion, and buy-out/ins of companies in the following sectors: consumer products, foods financial services, communications, healthcare products and services, and life sciences. For more information contact Francis P. Manzo at 847.441.1822, www.appletreecapital.com. Badger AgVest, LLC is a membership organization formed by Wisconsin farmers and agribusinesses to better identify and support businesses that may add value to agricultural commodities and industries and that might spur rural economic development. For more information, contact James Hanke, Executive Director at 715.849.5510, www.badgeragvest.com. Capvest Venture Fund, a venture capital fund affiliated with the Community Bankers of Wisconsin, was established to make investments in a diversified portfolio of growth and expansion companies. Industry sectors include niche manufacturing, distribution, healthcare, business services, or enabling technology with revenues greater than $5 million. Investment range is $250,000 $1.2 million. For more information, contact Christopher Zuzick at 414.719.4304, www.capvestvc.com. Central Wisconsin Business Angels, LLC was formed to assist in equity financing of business start-ups and expansions that produce a product or service that is exported beyond the Central Wisconsin area. For more information, contact Connie Loden at 715.423.1830. Continuum Investment L.P. is a Middleton-based investment organization. For information contact Athena Bayne via e-mail at Athena@continuumip.com, phone 608.821.1100, or fax 608.821.1101. DaneVest Tech Fund, LLC makes equity investments in Portfolio Companies - primarily privately held early stage growth businesses, and businesses with special technology and other advantages in the information technology, life sciences, and consumer goods/services industries - primarily in Wisconsin and the Midwest. For more information, contact Managing Director Joe Hildebrandt at 608.661.1000. Daycholah Capital LLC is a financial advisory and investment management firm focused on the Cleantech/Renewable Resources industry sector. For more information contact Mark Worley at 847.295.5900 or via mark@daycholahcapital.com. The Golden Angels Network (GAN) is a group of angel investors in Chicago and Milwaukee, many of whom are Marquette University alumni and friends. They consider a wide range of angel opporunities, focusing on high growth markets. Contact Tim Keane at 414.288.5722 or via e-mail at keane@mu.edu for more details. Kegonsa Capital Partners (KCP) works with entrepreneurs to help establish new companies, bringing new products or services to market. KCP offers office, lab facilities, and services that help a company grow during the start-up period when it is the most vulnerable. Visit www.kegonsapartners.com to learn more about KCP. Madison Development Corporation Venture Debt Fund is designed to provide debt financing to emerging growth companies. The Fund is intended to complement other early stages of capital and stretch the ability of growth companies to access capital at a predictable cast while giving up minimal ownership. Contact David Scholtens at 608.256.2799 ext. 13 or fax at 608.256.1560 for more details. Marshfield Investment Partners, LLC is a formal group of accredited angel investors who are interested in taking equity commitments in early-stage, high growth potential companies in the greater Marshfield region and throughout Wisconsin. For more information, contact James Hanke, Director at 715.849.5510 Ext. 306. Mason Wells is a middle-market private equity investor serving the Midwest. For more information, contact Mason Wells through their online form at www.masonwells.com/contact_us. NEW Capital Fund Inc. will target companies in northeastern Wisconsin that have the potential for rapid growth and can be certified as qualified businesses under Wisconsin’s Act 255. For more information contact Chalie Goff at 920.731.5777 or Charlie@newcapitalfund.com. Origin Investment Group, LLC is a regional angel investment network established with the support of the Small Business Development Center at the University of Wisconsin – La Crosse. Contact Jan Gallagher at 608.785.8782 for additional information. Pennies From Heaven was organized as a collaborative effort between the law firm of von Briesen and Roper, S.C., the Center 12 • Office of Energy Independence Venture Capital for Advanced Technology & Innovation (CATI) and local development corporations to provide a forum for angel investors in Southeastern Wisconsin. For more information, contact Attorney David Barnes at 262.657.6000. Phenomenelle Angels Fund I, L.P. is a new, early stage fund that invests in women and minority owned or managed businesses in the Midwest. Qualifying businesses must have t least one woman or an ethnic minority holding substantial ownership or in an executive (C-level) position. Investors are limited to accredited women investors and select entities. For more information contact Dedee Wojtal via e-mail at info@phenomenelleangels.com, or by phone at 608.441.8315, or fax at 616.582.5926. The St. Croix Valley Angel Network, Inc. seeks to foster economic development in the St. Croix Valley by connecting candidate companies with prospective angel investors. For more information, contact Steven DeWald at 715.425.3398 or via e-mail at steven.e.dewald@uwrf.edu. Silicon Pastures, based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a network of angel investors and strategic partners for emerging businesses, especially those in the Midwest. Silicon Pastures focuses on businesses with technology that is protectable with patents, copyrights, or trade secrets. Contact Director Teresa Esser at 414.771.4350 or via e-mail at teresa@siliconpastures.com for more information. Stateline Angels members invest in companies with the potential to rapidly scale into market and financial leadership. This usually implies potential for high growth, a strong market position and a sustainable advantage. For more information e-mail Dale Falconer, president, at defalconer@sewardscrew.com or DeWayne Fellows, vice president, at defellow@aolcom. Private Funding Sources Norman Foundation - Environmental Justice Program Summary: The Norman Foundation Environmental Justice Program supports work to prevent the disposal of toxins in communities, and to link environmental issues with economic and social justice. The foundation provides grants for general support, projects, and collaborative efforts. The foundation also welcomes innovative proposals designed to build the capacity of social change organizations working in its areas of interest. Individual grants NTE $20K. Contact: http://www.normanfdn.org/. Successful Entrepreneurs Investors brings investors together with start-ups to assist in creating an innovation economy in Wisconsin. For more information, contact Daniel J. Steininger at 414.430.2204, fax 414.390.5515, or e-mail atdsteinin@execpc.com. Fund for Wild Nature Summary: The Fund for Wild Nature provides grants to grassroots projects in the United States, Canada, and Mexico for campaigns to save and restore native species and wild ecosystems, including actions to defend wilderness and biological diversity. The Fund seeks proposals with visionary as well as realistic goals to create tangible change. Special attention is given to ecological issues not currently receiving sufficient public attention and funding. The Fund supports advocacy, litigation, public policy work, development of citizen science, and similar endeavors. Contact: http://www.fundwildnature.org/. Venture Investors, LLC is Wisconsin’s oldest and largest early and seed stage venture capital firm. Venure Investors provides private equity financing to high-growth companies in the health care and information technology sectors. For more information, contact John Neis at 608.441.2700, fax 608.441.2727, or e-mail at viweb@ventureinvestors.com. Renewable Fuels Foundation Summary: While sound research should be the basis for all grant applications, the RFF will only support projects that directly enhance domestic production of ethanol and the efficient use of co-products. Grants will be awarded for up to $75,000 annually, with viable projects qualifying for con-tinued funding. Contact: http://renewablefuelsfoundation.org/grants/. Women Angel, a Milwaukee angel group of women who invest in women-owned businesses, began considering deals in September, 2005. For more information, contact Barbara Boxer at 414.298.8173. Energy Foundation Summary: The Energy Foundation is a partnership of major donors interested in solving the world’s energy problems. Our mission is to advance energy efficiency and renewable energy — new technologies that are essential components of a clean energy future. Major program areas of support include: power, building, transportation and climate. Contact: http:// www.ef.org/home.cfm. Wisconsin Investment Partners, LLC is a life science-oriented angel investment network with a Wisconsin- and seed round-focused investment strategy. Contact Dick Leazer at 608.832.6365 or Terry Sivesind at 608.238.7674 for more information. McKnight Foundation Summary: The goal of McKnight grant http://power.wisconsin.gov/ • 13 Venture Capital making is that Upper Midwest will provide a significant portion of the nation’s renewable energy supply for electricity and transportation fuels. Funding for advanced biofuels began in 2005: $10 million over 5 years. Since 1997, its renewable energy grant making has been in partnership with the Energy Foundation. Contact: http://www.mcknight.org/. Rockefeller Brothers Fund Summary: Rockefeller Brothers’ program areas are Sustainable Development and Combating Global Warming. The fund supports advocacy to accelerate biofuels development as a means to combat global warming. An additional focus is on democratic practice to ensure that this transition is made in a sustainable and transparent way. Sustainable development accounted for 70% of RBF 2005 grant making, or nearly $15.8 million. Over the next two years RBF will invest roughly $500,000 in biofuels work. Average grant size in sustainable development is about $63,000. Contact: http://www.rbf.org/. Turner Foundation Summary: The Turner Foundation provides funding for advocacy and policy work to advance energy efficiency and renewable energy. Geographic priorities include Georgia, Florida, South Carolina, Montana, and New Mexico, as well as some nationwide programs. $800,000 for energy and climate, including about $250,000 for biofuels. $500,000 for air quality (much of this work relates to energy). Contact: http:// www.turnerfoundation.org/. The Joyce Foundation Summary: The Joyce Foundation’s focus is on energy from clean coal. It committed $7 million over three years (2005-2007) to ensure that the next generation of Midwest coal plants use state-of-the-art technology to minimize climate change and pollution. Total given to environment was just over $6.2 million for 37 projects in 2005.The average grant size was $168,000, with a range of $42,000 to $787,000. Contact: www.joycefdn.org. Nathan Cummings Foundation Summary: Nathan Cummings has a related program area in Environment & Contemplative Practice. The foundation seeks to foster sustainability and environ- mental justice by supporting the accountability of corporations, governments, and other institutions for their environmental practices. In energy, support has focused on the Apollo Project’s national, regional, and statewide projects to spark action and policy development in renewable energy and efficiency. Annual support to Apollo Project energy work this year was about $400,000 for national work, and about $250,000 for regional efforts, for a total of close to $750,000 per year. Contact: www.nathancummings.org. Great Lakes Protection Fund Summary: The interest of the Great Lakes Protection Fund is to assure that water issues related to the ecological health of the Great Lakes basin remain in the foreground of any transition to biofuel cropping, transportation, and refining. The foundation is paying attention to biofuels as it touches on existing work in ecological health. Returned $1.6 million to member states in 2005 and paid $2.8 million for regional projects. It lists 26 active projects in 2005. Contact: www.glpf.org. Pioneer Hi-Bred International’s Community Investment Summary: Pioneer Hi-Bred International’s Community Investment Program supports efforts to improve the quality of life in the communities where the company’s customers and employees live and work worldwide, including locations in the United States and Canada. In the U.S., the company supports nonprofit organizations that address science education, agriculture, and farm safety. In Canada, the focus is on agriculture and conservation, education and leadership development, rural health and welfare, and heritage preservation and the arts in rural communities. Priority is given to nonprofit organizations located in Pioneer facility communities or rural agricultural regions. Contact: www.pioneer.com. Jessie Smith Noyes Foundation Summary: The mission of the Jessie Smith Noyes Foundation is to promote a sustainable and just social and natural system. The Foundation provides support to grassroots organizations nationwide through several grant making programs. The Protect the Health and Environment of Communities Threatened by Toxics program supports organizations that work on toxics exposure and contamination. The Advance Environmental Justice program supports organizations that strive to counter environmental degradation in low-income communities and communities of color. The Promote a Sustainable Agricultural and Food System program provides grants to rural and urban organizations that work with farmers and consumers on issues involving sustainable agriculture and community food security. Contact: http://www.noyes.org/. Skoll Foundation Summary: The requests proposals for Social Entrepreneurship Awards, for social entrepreneurs whose work has the potential for large-scale influence on critical challenges of our time in the areas of environmental sustainability, health, tolerance and human rights, institutional responsibility, economic and social equity, peace and security. These awards provide later-stage funding, which is generally structured as a $1 million award paid out over three year. In most cases, the grant is provided for core support to help organizations expand their programs and capacity to deliver long-term, sustainable equilibrium change. Contact: http://www.skollfoundation.org/. 14 • Office of Energy Independence Resources and Contacts Government and Educational Resources WI Dept. Ag, Trade, & Consumer Protection: Sue Porter PO Box 8911, Madison, WI 53708, Conservation planning, watershed program 608.224.4605, sue.porter@datcp.state.wi.us Food Packaging & Technology Center: UW Stout Menomonie Focus Groups, Consumer testing, product development 715.232.2994, fptc@uwstout.edu Northwest WI Manufacturing Outreach Center: UW Stout Labeling, processing, and packaging 715.232.2994, http:// nmmoc.uwstout.edu Small Business Development Centers: Market information, business management, financial resources, and business planning 608.836.8820, http://www.wisconsinsbdc.org Wisconsin Innovation Service Center: Debra Malewicki Whitewater, New Product, Invention assessment, Market expansion262.472.1365, malewicd@uww.edu, rickm@uww.edu Lakeshore Technical College: Greg Booher Cleveland ValueAdded Ag – Bus Development, Feasibility Studies, Business Plan920.583.3913, grbo@gotoltc.edu UW Campuses- Marketing Classes: All campuses Survey and market research http://www.wisconsin.edu/campuses/index.htm Business Development Resources Taxation: Tax Publications or Small Business Resource Guide This site contains tax forms, instructions, and other useful information for small Business. Go to http://www.irs.gov , select Businesses, then Forms and Publications Exporting: US Foreign Commercial Service Department of Commerce 414.297.3473, http://www.commerce.state.wi.us Wage and Hour Laws: US Department of Labor Wage and Hour Division 608.264.5221, 414.297.3585, http://www.dwd.state.wi.us Workplace Safety Regulations: OSHA Publications US Department of Labor 608.264.5221, 414.297.3585, http:// www.dwd.state.wi.us Market Statistics: For data on consumer spending and demographics Division of Industry Productivity Studies Bureau of Labor Statistics 202.691.5624, http://www.bls.gov Industry Forecasts: US Chamber of Commerce International Division 202.463.5460, http://www.uschamber.com Science and Technology References: Library of Congress Science and Technology Division 202.707.5522, http://www.loc.gov Procurement Information: Federal Government Contracts SBA 414.297.3941 State Resources EX-IM Bank: Assistance for small business selling overseas 312.353.8081, http://www.exim.gov State Bar of Wisconsin: Business Assistance Program An opportunity to receive up to two hours of legal counseling from a business lawyer at no cost 608.250.6006, http://www.wisbar.org Wisconsin Department of Financial Institions (WDFI): Corporate Registration Information System Information on legal entities 608.261.7577, http://www.wdfi.org Small Business Development Centers (SBDC): Provides no-cost counseling to help businesses in four general categories: preventure, start-up, established and growth 608-263.7794, http:// www.wisconsinsbdc.org Wisconsin Innovations Service Center (WISC): Specializes in new product feasibility and market expansion opportunities for small manufacturers and entrepreneurs 262.472.1365, http:// academics.uww.edu/business/innovate Economic Data: US Department of Commerce Bureau of Economic Analysis 202.606.9900, http://www.bea.gov Census Data: US Department of Commerce Customer Services Center 301.457.4100, http://www.census.gov Importing: Department of Treasury, 202.622.2000, http:// www.ustreas.gov/ Customs Service : 414.571.2860, http://www.ustreas.gov http://power.wisconsin.gov/ • 15 Resources & Contacts Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE): Helps small businesses solve their operating problems at through one-on-one counseling no charge http://www.score.org workplace free from safety and health hazards 920.734.4521, 715.832.9019, 608.441.5388, 414.297.3315, http://www.osha.gov Help Business Line: Department of Commerce For basic resource/contact information 608.266.3447 Environmental Regulations: Department of Natural Resources Information on water, air, or water regulations 608.264.6266, http://www.dnr.state.wi.us Census/Demographics and Population Estimates: Demographics Services Center 608-266-1927, http://www.wisstats.wisc.edu Applied Population Laboratory 608.262.1515 Building Permits and Zoning Codes: Department of Commerce Division of Safety and Buildings 608.266.3151, http:// www.commerce.state.wi.us State Purchasing (Procurement): Department of Administration Bureau of Procurement Information on state government purchasing 608.266.2605 Motor Vehicle Licensing: Department of Transportation Division of Motor Vehicles 608.266.1466, http://www.dot.state.wi.us Wisconsin Procurement Institute: 756 N. Milwaukee St., Milwaukee, 53202Assists companies in doing business with federal, state and local government agencies and prime contractors 414.270.3600, http://www.wispro.org Economic and Business Development: UW-Extension Cooperative Extension http://www1.uwex.edu Technology Transfer Institute: UW-Stout Center for Innovation & Development, Stout Advanced Manufacturing Assistance, Packaging Research & Development Center 715.232.5266, 866.880.2262, http://stti.uwstout.edu Science and Technology References/Resources: Wisconsin Tech Search Access to published scientific, technical, marketing information, patents and trademarks, standards and specifications 608.262.5913, http://www.wisc.edu/techsearch Regional Planning Commission Job Service: Department of Workforce Development 608.266.0327, 888.258.9966 Regional Planning Commissions: See map on Web site for contacts, http://www.commerce.state.wi.us/MT/MT-RPC-map.html Tourism Information: Wisconsin Department of Tourism 608.266.2147, http://www.travelwisconsin.com Wisconsin Utility Services Contacts Corporation/Tradename/Trademark Registration: Department of Financial Institutions For information on the incorporation of a business, registration of a business name or limited partnership, and information on the process and records of business collateral 608.261.7577, http://www.wdfi.org Alliant Energy: Bill Johnson, 4902 North Biltmore Lane, Madison, WI 53718, 800.937.0177, http://www.alliant.com Franchise and Securities Registrations: Department of Financial Institutions Franchise and securities offerings in the state 608.266.1064, http://www.wdfi.org Madison Gas & Electric (MG&E): Phyllis Wilhelm, 608.252.5647, http://www.madison.com/communities/mge/index.php Wage and Hour Laws: Department of Workforce Development Rules on minimum wage, overtime pay, child labor laws, compensatory time and wage payments 608.266.6860, http:// www.dwd.state.wi.us Dairyland Power::* Craig Ha