Weinert Center for Entrepreneurship-UW Madison

Professor Martin Ganco was featured on Wisconsin Radio Network discussing how the non-compete clause ban from the FTC will strengthen the economy: https://lnkd.in/d8qbj59b

This week, founder of Madison Chocolate Company, started our Distinguished Entrepreneurs Lunch with a sweet crowd.

We thank her for talking about her experience in the food industry and for being our final featured entrepreneur of the semester- which was certainly bittersweet!

Thank you, Megan!

COMING NEXT WEDNESDAY… on April 17th is our final of the semester!

When it comes to sweet treats, Megan Hile, founder of Madison Chocolate Company, knows best. In 2003, Megan worked as a sales account manager and client educator for Mesocaoao when her world was turned upside down. Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, Megan started a blog- Foodalution, which focused on anti-inflammatory foods. It was then Megan realized her love for baking and sweet treats. Winning two Good Food Awards in 2019 and 2020, The Madison Chocolate Company thrives on quality food and sweet goals!

Please click on the link below to read the full bio and to RSVP today! Pizza will be served first to those that RSVP.
https://buswisc.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_4MFDuqGdlS3DlVY

This week, serial entrepreneur, venture capitalist, CEO, and physicist, started our Distinguished Entrepreneurs Lunch with a big crowd.

We thank him for talking about his experience in business and his expertise in creating ventures!

Thank you, Bob!

COMING NEXT WEDNESDAY… on April 10th is our !

Robert Walker is a Serial Entrepreneur, Venture Capitalist, CEO and Physicist. Graduating from UW-Madison with this badger earned a degree in math, physics, and computer engineering. After graduating with a Ph.D. Caltech in Physics, Robert had big plans. Traveling round the world, especially in Asia and Japan, Robert spent 10 years conducting high energy physics research. He went on to found multiple companies, raising up to $150 million in venture capital funds. Now, Robert continues to do what he loves through working as a venture capitalist and mentor to several VC firms and optoelectronic start-up companies. His passion for his work in physics and consultancy is truly investing!

Please click on the link below to read the full bio and to RSVP today! Pizza will be served first to those that RSVP.
https://buswisc.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_7NEHKlVCWltGZgy

This week, the President & CEO of Madison Economic Partnership (MadREP) started our Distinguished Entrepreneurs Lunch with a fun crowd.

We thank him for talking about his experience and creating an interactive session for our students.

Thank you, Jason!

COMING AFTER SPRING BREAK… on April 3rd is our !

Jason Fields, President & CEO of Madison Region Economic Partnership (MadREP). Starting his career in the financial service sector, Jason managed over $100 million in assets. As an expert in finances, Jason went on to represent the US as a World Business Angel Investment Forum senator. In 2021, Jason joined the Madison Region Economic Partnership to help better Madison and its community.

As an author of 6 books, a certified financial instructor, and president of the Regional Leadership Council, join us in welcoming Jason Fields! Talking to him is definitely worth the investment!

Please click the link below to read the full bio and RSVP today! Pizza will be served first to those who RSVP.
https://buswisc.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0qXC3lzg8WKDESW

This week, the Group Communications Manager at Intuit started our Distinguished Entrepreneurs Lunch with a big crowd.

We thank her for talking about her experience with Intuit and her love for entrepreneurship.

Thank you, Kate!

Entrepreneurship doesn't only apply to starting a new business. Entrepreneurial skills are valuable across a number of different career paths.

Join us at Think Like An Entrepreneur!, for a panel discussion highlighting a variety of career pathways and opportunities that employ an entrepreneurial mindset. This event will showcase different ways you can be entrepreneurial whether starting a business, working for a startup, or pursuing your passion as a side hustle.

OUR PANELISTS
- Chris and James Kardatzke, Founders of Quiver Quantitative
- Tori Gerding, Owner of Ancora Coffee and Founder of Hi/Lo Café
- Yvette Jones, President and Owner of designCraft Advertising

DETAILS
Date: Monday, March 18, 2024
Time: 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Room: 4151 Grainger Hall
Snacks and Beverages will be served!
RSVP on Handshake at: https://wisc.joinhandshake.com/edu/events/1491181

COMING NEXT WEDNESDAY… on March 13th is our !

Kate Ullsvik, Group Communications Manager at Intuit. Kate is a fellow Badger alumnus, pursuing a fellowship through the Weinert Center of Entrepreneurship. After graduating with an MBA from UW Madison, Kate went on with a focus on brand and product management. Passionate about making a difference, Kate went on to campaign for various political campaigns and has done numerous works with companies such as Turbo Tax, CreditKarma, and QuickBooks. Now, Kate does great work at Intuit, leading market strategy. Come and learn about how you gain market influence!

Please click on the link below to read the full bio and to RSVP today! Pizza will be served first to those that RSVP.
https://buswisc.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bO40QYqy0rzCDS6

This week, Founder and CEO of Fenrici Brands started our Distinguished Entrepreneurs Lunch with an energized crowd.

We thank him for talking about his experience with non-profits and his passion for entrepreneurship. It was truly inspiring!

Thank you, Michael!

COMING NEXT WEDNESDAY… on March 6th is our !

Michael Zhang, Founder and CEO of Fenrici Brands. After Graduating with a Ph.D. in Biochemistry from UW-Madison, Michael went on to lead multiple startups and has had much experience in the world of innovation through his work at eCommerce, Land’s End, and in the AI Space. Inspiredto do more, Michael created Fenrici. Fenrici aims to partner with families with rare diseases- raising awareness through its mission and the non-profit: Global genes. It is clear to see that passion can help communities and Michael is a prime example of it.

Please click on the link below to read the full bio and to RSVP today! Pizza will be served first to those that RSVP.
https://buswisc.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3TMpcS1Owkglx8a

This week, Co-Founder and CEO of Understory started our Distinguished Entrepreneurs Lunch with a big crowd.

We thank him for taking the time to speak about his experience and ventures that allow him to help so many communities.

Thank you, Alex!

COMING NEXT WEDNESDAY… on February 28th is our !

Passion creates the best ideas. Alex Kubicek, Co-Founder and CEO of Understory is a big example of that. As a badger, Alex uses his masters in Science in Atmospheric and Oceanic Science to create practical solutions for climate sensitive industries. After the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, Alex created Understory whose primary use was to provide data through sensors to better assess communities bound to these climate issues. Under Alex’s leadership, Understory revolutionizes the weather industry and helps insurances collect information and assess property in weather disasters. Come and join us in welcoming Alex Kubicek!

Please click on the link below to read the full bio and to RSVP today! Pizza will be served first to those that RSVP.
https://buswisc.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_aXBnG5jkOXsdvL0

This week, the Founder of Mixed Animal Veterinary Associates North America, Inc. (MAVANA) and Former President & CEO of Badger Veterinary Hospital started our Distinguished Entrepreneurs Lunch with a great crowd.

We thank him for taking the time to speak about his ventures and experience in the veterinary world!

Thank you, Scott!

COMING NEXT WEDNESDAY… on February 21st is our !

To all our animal lovers, you do not want to miss Dr. Scott Spaulding, Founder of Mixed Animal Veterinary Associates North America, Inc. (MAVANA) and Former President & CEO of Badger Veterinary Hospital. As a huge animal lover, Scott joined Badger Veterinary Hospital in 1992, growing it to something much larger as a partner in 1996. Scott has created numerous ventures, first being Vet24Seven which paved the way as the first veterinary medicine’s telehealth platform and MAVANA to commit practices to all intermixed animals. If you would love to learn more about animals and how to grow a platform, Dr. Scott Spaulding is the speaker for you.

Please click on the link below to read the full bio and to RSVP today! Pizza will be served first to those that RSVP.
https://buswisc.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_5pYhhakP2X0ALcO

This week, the Founder of Pythonic Corporation started our Distinguished Entrepreneurs Lunch with a big crowd.

We thank him for taking the time to speak about his serial ventures and experience in the startup world!

Thank you, Matt!

COMING NEXT WEDNESDAY… on February 14th is our !

There is no such thing as too many ideas. Serial Entrepreneur Matt Younkle, founder of Pythonic Corporation, is the prime example through his numerous ventures. From co-founding a music platform, to creating a nationwide sensational product that pours beer three times faster, Matt is finally making room in the AI Space through Pythonic Corporation. To now, Matt has received honors from Popular Science and TIME Magazine, as well as awards from the University through his commitment to entrepreneurship. If you’re interested in creating and starting your own venture, Matt Younkle is a speaker you do not want to miss!

Please click on the link below to read the full bio and to RSVP today! Pizza will be served first to those that RSVP.
https://buswisc.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6LIXlRcaWofcOuW

This week, the Managing Director of University Research Park started our Distinguished Entrepreneurs Lunch with a thoughtful crowd.

We thank him for taking the time to speak about his experience in research and his entrepreneurial ventures.

Thank you, Aaron!

COMING NEXT WEDNESDAY… on February 7th is our !

Inspired to make a change in your community? Come and join us in giving a warm welcome to Aaron Olver, Managing Director of University Research Park. As a Badger Alumni with a degree in Economics, Aaron has worked firsthand with the Wisconsin community through his work as a Director of Economic Development, Real Estate Services and Development. Helping with economic development initiatives, Aaron seeked community support under the administration of Governor Jim Goyle through “Grow Wisconsin” and the Wisconsin Angel Capital Network where he was able to use his experience in business development and growth strategies to make a difference. Change is something that Aaron not only thinks of, but strives for.

Please click on the link below to read the full bio and to RSVP today! Pizza will be served first to those that RSVP.
https://buswisc.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_79WIRgHvz3hzbKK

This week, Co-Founder and CEO of CODAworx started off our spring semester with a huge crowd.

We thank her for taking the time to showcase her entrepreneurial ventures and speak about her experiences in startups.

Thank you, Toni!

LAST CHANCE TO APPLY!

The Annual Governor's Business Plan Contest is now accepting entries online for the 2024 competition until 11:59 PM on Wednesday, January 31st. This contest links up and coming entrepreneurs with a statewide network of resources, expert advice, mentoring, and capital!

You are encouraged to submit an entry as Phase one is open until 11:59 PM on Wednesday, January 31st!

Create a account here and submit your business plan!
https://govsbizplancontest.com/?fbclid=IwAR304N9wIRg-dXPrRIvA5r2JVGmUbbf63hcqPiVBMbeOucK9qgF2j3mwpX4

WI Governor's Business Plan Contest | The mission of the Governor’s Business Plan Contest is to encourage entrepreneurs in the startup stage of tech-based businesses in Wisconsin The mission of the Governor’s Business Plan Contest is to encourage entrepreneurs in the startup stage of tech-enabled businesses in Wisconsin. The contest links up-and-coming entrepreneurs with a statewide network of community resources, expert judges, mentors and possible sources of capital.

UPCOMING THIS WEDNESDAY… on January 31st will be our first of the spring semester!

Come and join us in giving a warm welcome to our final Distinguished Entrepreneur of the semester: Toni Sikes, Co-Founder and CEO of CODAworx. Graduating as a business badger alumni, Toni gained her MBA in Marketing Research. Helping others with their financing and M&A strategies, Toni wanted to make something of her own. CODAworx, is a platform that showcases designs from artists to other members in the art ecosystem. As a key worker of the art network, Toni is considered to be a thought leader of creation.

Please click on the link below to read the full bio and to RSVP today! Pizza will be served first to those that RSVP.
https://buswisc.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1XtHqEK6c0axtX0

Winning Ways is back! Interested in Participating in or hosting a student competition? Come and join us to hear about the entrepreneurship competitions on campus and how easy it is to participate!

PartnerUp! is also back. If you are a UW student who has a startup idea or would love to meet others to join a startup team, this session is for you!

Link to RSVP can be found here:

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Calling all Entrepreneurs!

The Annual Governor's Business Plan Contest is now accepting entries online for the 2024 competition until 11:59 PM on Wednesday, January 31st. This contest links up and coming entrepreneurs with a statewide network of resources, expert advice, mentoring, and capital!

You are encouraged to submit an entry as Phase one is open until 11:59 PM on Wednesday, January 31st!

Create a account here and submit your business plan!

WI Governor's Business Plan Contest | The mission of the Governor’s Business Plan Contest is to encourage entrepreneurs in the startup stage of tech-based businesses in Wisconsin The mission of the Governor’s Business Plan Contest is to encourage entrepreneurs in the startup stage of tech-enabled businesses in Wisconsin. The contest links up-and-coming entrepreneurs with a statewide network of community resources, expert judges, mentors and possible sources of capital.

Interested on how to take your innovation to the next level? The application for the Spring 2024 NSF I-CORPS Training is now open for applications.

Applications are free and successful completion of this course will qualify teams as eligible to apply for the NSF I-CORPS National Teams Programs and a $50,000 grant! This 6 week program, taught by NSF I-CORPS trained instructors, will help you with your research and innovation this spring as a cohort.

COURSE BENEFITS ARE:
In addition to gaining eligibility for the national program and $50,000 grant, participating
1) Increase your team’s ability to compete for other commercialization grants.
2) Gain valuable market insight to inform the next steps for creating impact with your research.
3) Gain unique professional development experience appropriate for a broad range of career
paths, from academic to industry to startup.
4) Expand your network of like-minded peers, instructors, investors, customers, and mentors
5) Learn, practice, and hone your entrepreneurship skills.

Registration deadline is January 25th, 2024 at 11:59 pm.

Interested in tech-based startups? The annual Governor's Business Plan Contest is open for applications now! The Wisconsin Governor's Business Plan links up up-and-coming entrepreneurs with resources, expert advice and mentoring, management talent, and possible sources for capital. Create an entry today up to January 31st:

WI Governor's Business Plan Contest | The mission of the Governor’s Business Plan Contest is to encourage entrepreneurs in the startup stage of tech-based businesses in Wisconsin The mission of the Governor’s Business Plan Contest is to encourage entrepreneurs in the startup stage of tech-enabled businesses in Wisconsin. The contest links up-and-coming entrepreneurs with a statewide network of community resources, expert judges, mentors and possible sources of capital.

UPCOMING NEXT SEMESTER… on January 31st will be our first of the spring semester!

Come and join us in giving a warm welcome to our final Distinguished Entrepreneur of the semester: Toni Sikes, Co-Founder and CEO of CODAworx. Graduating as a business badger alumni, Toni gained her MBA in Marketing Research. Helping others with their financing and M&A strategies, Toni wanted to make something of her own. CODAworx, is a platform that showcases designs from artists to other members in the art ecosystem. As a key worker of the art network, Toni is considered to be a thought leader of creation.

Please click on the link below to read the full bio and to RSVP today! Pizza will be served first to those that RSVP.
https://buswisc.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1XtHqEK6c0axtX0

Wisconsin School of Business | Weinert Center for Entrepreneurship-UW Madison

This week, the Director and Founder of Sector67 brought a innovative crowd to the lunch!

We thank him for taking the time to talk about his time at UW as an entrepreneur and answering questions about his own startup!

Thank you, Chris!

COMING THIS WEDNESDAY... on November 29th is our last of the semester!

If you like puzzles, building things, and fixing things, then you do not want to miss the opportunity to see speaker, Chris Meyer. A formal badger alumni with a BS and MS degree in Mechanical Engineering, Chris founded Sector67- which has paved the way for other companies and startups, to make their dreams a reality. Sector67 is a home for innovative minds and is a nonprofit dedicated to teaching those to learn how to build and create next level ventures and technologies. If you are a tech person or would love to learn more hands on with your ventures- please come and join us in giving a warm welcome to Chris!

Please click on the link below to read the full bio and to RSVP today! Pizza will be served first to those that RSVP.
https://buswisc.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_6x5szy4wE6R1sma