Wisconsin's economy is deeply rooted in manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare, while increasingly diversifying into technology and financial services.
* **Manufacturing:** The state is a historic powerhouse for manufacturing, leading in the production of paper products, machinery, and food processing. The Fox River Valley is a major hub for the paper industry, while the Milwaukee area remains a center for heavy manufacturing and brewing. * **Agriculture:** Known as "America's Dairyland," Wisconsin is a leading producer of cheese, milk, cranberries, and ginseng. * **Technology and Healthcare:** The Madison area is a thriving hub for biotechnology and health-tech software, driven heavily by the presence of Epic Systems and research spin-offs from the University of Wisconsin. * **Finance and Insurance:** Milwaukee and the central part of the state host major financial and insurance institutions. * **Retail:** The state is home to several major retail operations, including Menards (home improvement) and Kohl's.