The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation today announced 50 early-stage companies in Wisconsin leveraged more than $44 million in outside investment last year thanks to the Qualified New Business Venture (QNBV) program.

Investors can be eligible for a 25 percent tax credit on the amount they invest in a business that WEDC certifies for QNBV status. This includes private, angel and venture capital investors.

“This program is a winner for Wisconsin because it helps spur private seed and early-stage funding into new businesses in the state,” Gov. Scott Walker said in a statement. “The QNBV program continues to help new companies leverage private investment capital to accelerate their potential for growth and job creation in Wisconsin.”

Overall in 2011, $118,748,808 in private investments were made in a total of 77 certified companies.

More information can be found on the WEDC website (PDF).