Milwaukee’s entrepreneurial landscape is vibrant, supported by a variety of organizations and programs dedicated to fostering business growth and innovation. These resources provide essential support to local entrepreneurs, contributing significantly to the city’s economic development.
Greater Milwaukee Urban League’s Entrepreneurship Connection
The Greater Milwaukee Urban League (GMUL) offers the Entrepreneurship Connection, a program designed to assist local entrepreneurs in growing their businesses and creating generational wealth. In partnership with Molson Coors and other local nonprofits, this initiative provides access to business resources and year-round networking opportunities. Notably, Molson Coors sponsors free memberships to The Lonely Entrepreneur platform, offering support in various areas to help entrepreneurs succeed. In 2021, 78% of participating entrepreneurs reported gaining new customers, and 66% increased their revenue. Learn more about the Entrepreneurship Connection.
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Lubar Entrepreneurship Center
The Lubar Entrepreneurship Center (LEC) at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee serves as a hub for entrepreneurs, innovators, and changemakers. The LEC offers a range of programs, including the Milwaukee I-Corps™ Program, which links new venture and business mentors with academics to explore pathways for commercializing research ideas. Additionally, the Startup Challenge encourages students to develop their ideas and launch businesses. These initiatives provide the tools and support necessary to transform ideas into reality. Explore the Lubar Entrepreneurship Center.
Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce’s Startup Support
The Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC) has launched a comprehensive initiative to promote startups and entrepreneurship throughout the Milwaukee region. This includes the Milwaukee Venture Mentoring Service, which connects entrepreneurs with carefully selected mentor teams to accelerate startup growth and increase success rates. Additionally, MMAC collaborates with Marquette University’s College of Business Administration to deliver economic reports examining key trends shaping the metro Milwaukee region. Discover MMAC’s startup support initiatives.
City of Milwaukee’s Growing Entrepreneurs in Milwaukee (GEM) Program
The City of Milwaukee’s GEM Program consists of educational modules aimed at increasing participants’ knowledge and proficiency in entrepreneurship. Open to residents under 18 years old, the program covers topics such as the basics of entrepreneurship and Milwaukee’s licensing regulations. Upon completion of required modules, participants receive the ReDonna Rodgers Entrepreneurship Permit, fostering early engagement in the business community. Learn more about the GEM Program.
Small Business Development Center at UW-Milwaukee
The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at UW-Milwaukee offers no-cost, confidential consulting and business education to entrepreneurs at any stage. Serving multiple counties, including Milwaukee, the SBDC provides dedicated experts for impartial guidance, helping entrepreneurs make informed decisions and craft plans for success. Access SBDC resources.
These programs and organizations exemplify Milwaukee’s commitment to nurturing its entrepreneurial ecosystem. By leveraging these resources, local entrepreneurs can access the support and guidance necessary to thrive, contributing to the city’s ongoing economic vitality.