Governor Jim Doyle today announced $340,000 in funding for BPM, Inc. in Peshtigo to invest in their operations. The funding comes from the State Energy Program (SEP), which is funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.
"My top priority has been to help companies and communities move forward and create good-paying jobs for Wisconsin families," Governor Doyle said. "We are moving Wisconsin forward in difficult national economic times by investing in our businesses and making them more efficient and competitive. With this funding, we will be able to help BPM, Inc. upgrade their facility."
Formed in 2005, BPM, Inc. is a paper manufacturing company that specializes in fine papers and packaging products. The SEP funding will allow the company to purchase more energy-efficient equipment for their Peshtigo facility, making the project eligible for a Wisconsin Focus on Energy award. The project is a $490,000 investment.
Governor Doyle has led major efforts to help Wisconsin manufacturers improve energy efficiency and invest in clean energy technologies. Wisconsin is the only state directing 100 percent of its state energy funds from the Recovery Act - more than $55 million - to help state manufacturers bring down their costs through energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. Through the State Energy Program, companies like McCain Foods, TecStar Manufacturing, Helios USA, Nature Tech, ZBB Energy Corporation, Renewegy and Cardinal Glass are already creating thousands of jobs through these investments.
This project builds on Governor Doyle's efforts to position Wisconsin for future growth. Since taking office in 2003, Governor Doyle has worked aggressively to create and retain jobs in Wisconsin. Governor Doyle's budget last year created some of the strongest economic development tools in the nation to help businesses create jobs and get people back to work. Wisconsin now has powerful new tax credits to help manufacturers create and retain jobs, new tools to help investors create start-ups, and new incentives to spur research and development.