Over the past few years, the Wisconsin startup scene has experienced a boom. For example, Madison is becoming a hub for technology startups, while Milwaukee is seeing more diversity among its startups. Along with the growth of Wisconsin’s startup ecosystem is the increasing number of startup events in the state. Here is a list of major startup events held annually in Wisconsin:
Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Conference (Madison/Milwaukee – June)
The Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Conference brings together hundreds of experienced investors, entrepreneurs, industry experts and innovators. This conference includes the Governor’s Business Plan Competition and the Ken Hendricks Memorial “Seize the Day” award presentation.
Forward Fest (Madison – August)
As Wisconsin’s largest technology and entrepreneurship festival, the eight-day Forward Festival convenes more than 5,000 business leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, creatives, hackers, foodies and more from all over the region. It typically has more than 40 events, including the Forward Tech Conference, the Badger Startup Summit and the Startup Showcase.
Photo courtesy of Forward Festival
OnRamp Healthcare Conference (Green Bay – August)
The OnRamp Healthcare Conference is the leading conference for healthcare innovation and strives to improve the healthcare scene. Typically held at Lambeau Field, the conference, which is hosted by gener8tor, brings together investors, startups, corporations and healthcare industry members, including pairing them for one-on-one meetings.
Summerfest Tech (Milwaukee – September)
Summerfest Tech is in its fourth year this year, and it focuses on supporting the growing technology scene in Wisconsin and beyond. Programming includes keynotes, breakouts and a pitch competition that attracts innovators, technologists and business leaders from around the region.
Startup 48 (Eau Claire – October)
Eau Claire’s entrepreneurial scene is continuing to grow. Startup 48 brings together entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs from all over the region to kick-start businesses over a 48-hour period.
OnRamp Manufacturing Conference (Milwaukee – October)
The OnRamp Manufacturing Conference, also organized by gener8tor, convenes the manufacturing startups, investors and the industry’s leading corporations. With keynotes, panels, one-on-one pitch sessions and networking opportunities, the conference highlights new technologies and business models to reinvent the manufacturing industry.
Early-Stage Symposium (Madison – November)
The Wisconsin Technology Council’s Early-Stage Symposium convenes more than 500 early-stage founders and investors. The symposium includes the famous Elevator Pitch Olympics, “Investor Intros,” keynotes, panels and plenty of networking opportunities.
