It also administered the distribution of federal economic assistance programs to local governments and businesses, and acts as a go-between for businesses and other government agencies.

It also gave housing assistance to low income families.

The Department of Commerce traced its roots to the Division of Industrial Development which was originated within the Office of the Governor, as established by the Wisconsin Legislature in 1955.

Two years later, in the executive branch reorganization of 1967, it became part of the Department of Local Affairs and Development, where it absorbed local and regional planning functions.

In 2011, the Wisconsin Legislature voted to abolish the Department of Commerce.