Walker talks venture capital options

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Gov. Scott Walker says he is exploring options to increase money available for venture capital and investors either by including it in his state budget or pursuing separate legislation.

Walker spoke about it at a Tuesday meeting of the Wisconsin Technology Council, an advisory board with members from tech companies, venture capital firms, the University of Wisconsin, state government and elsewhere.

Walker says the challenge is finding the right mechanism and dollar amount that can find support in the Legislature. Walker says he understands that the state must create a venture capital fund to help startup companies grow and expand.

He encourages members of the council to explain to lawmakers how venture capital would spur business growth statewide and not just in Madison and Milwaukee.