Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle today recently announced that the state will provide nearly $2 million from the Department of Commerce for Waupaca Foundry to upgrade its facilities in Marinette and Waupaca.

"I recognize that every day American foundries are expected to compete more and more with foreign manufacturers, posing significant challenges for a company like Waupaca Foundry," said Doyle. "That is why I am pleased to provide nearly $2 million in state assistance to help Waupaca Foundry upgrade its facilities, train its workers - and keep their good jobs here in Wisconsin."

Waupaca Foundry is one of the largest independent foundries in the nation and the largest foundry in terms of gray and ductile iron poured annually. It was founded in 1955. The company is headquartered in Waupaca, and is a subsidiary of ThyssenKrupp, a German steel producer.

"Governor Doyle's strong support of ThyssenKrupp Waupaca continues to create the atmosphere for our growth and expansion in Wisconsin," said Dave Adams, CEO of Waupaca Foundry.

The Department of Commerce will provide Waupaca Foundry with a $1 million Community Development Block Grant to help the company invest $4.9 million on renovations at its Marinette facility. Renovations will include the repair of a dock wall that holds up the Menominee riverbed running along the facility. The project will secure future growth at this facility, and retain 700 jobs.

The Department of Commerce will also provide Waupaca Foundry with $950,000 in training grants and tax credits to help the company invest nearly $55 million in new equipment at its Waupaca facilities. This project will retain nearly 1,600 jobs and create 60 additional jobs.