Milwaukee’s entrepreneurial landscape is vibrant, supported by a variety of organizations and programs dedicated to fostering business growth and innovation. Aspiring entrepreneurs and established business owners alike can access numerous resources to help navigate the challenges of starting and expanding their ventures.
Greater Milwaukee Urban League’s Entrepreneurship Connection
The Greater Milwaukee Urban League (GMUL) offers the Entrepreneurship Connection, a program designed to provide local entrepreneurs with business resources and networking opportunities. In partnership with Molson Coors and other local nonprofits, GMUL has launched this initiative to support business growth and the creation of generational wealth. Participants have access to the Lonely Entrepreneur platform, which offers support in various areas to help entrepreneurs grow their businesses. In 2021, 78% of participating entrepreneurs reported gaining new customers, and 66% increased their revenue. Learn more about the Entrepreneurship Connection.
UWM Lubar Entrepreneurship Center
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Lubar Entrepreneurship Center (LEC) serves as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. 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. Participants are coached on designing and validating business models, with opportunities to apply for grants to support customer discovery activities. Discover more about the Milwaukee I-Corps™ Program.
BizStarts
BizStarts focuses on providing world-class education to Milwaukee’s underserved communities, helping individuals start businesses or pursue self-employment. Their offerings include the BizStarts Institute, coaching, workshops, and connections to resources that inspire confidence and develop the capacity for personal success and business growth. Explore BizStarts’ services.
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. Designed for youth under 18 residing within the city limits, the program covers topics such as the basics of entrepreneurship and Milwaukee’s licensing regulations. Upon completion, participants receive the ReDonna Rodgers Entrepreneurship Permit, renewable every three years. Learn more about the GEM Program.
Economic Trends and Support
Milwaukee’s economy remains stable, with low unemployment and strong construction activity. The Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC) reports that the region’s unemployment rate stood at 3.9% in March 2026, below the national average of 4.7%. The construction sector led job growth with a 9.4% increase year-over-year, driven by large-scale investments from companies like Microsoft, Oracle, and Lilly. Read more about Metro Milwaukee’s economic trends.
Additionally, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) has provided nearly $1.3 million in grants to organizations supporting entrepreneurs with technical and financial assistance. These Entrepreneurship Partner Grants aim to assist startups across the state, recognizing the vital role entrepreneurs play in driving Wisconsin’s economy forward. Find out more about WEDC’s support for entrepreneurs.
By leveraging these resources and programs, Milwaukee’s entrepreneurs can access the support needed to launch and grow their businesses, contributing to the city’s economic vibrancy and innovation.