Ignite Wisconsin

Join us for a conversation about the Ignite Wisconsin Grant! The Entrepreneurship & Innovation team will be sharing details about the grant program and how it can support your ideas. We’ll also answer your questions and help you explore how Ignite could be a fit for you. Fostering a dynamic environment for startups Dense, well-connected entrepreneurial ecosystems—where support organizations collaborate seamlessly and productively—are proven to catalyze innovation, reduce barriers to entry, and accelerate learning. Such ecosystems also elevate regional and sector-based reputations, helping to attract even more entrepreneurial activity. To support the goal of increasing Wisconsin’s startup and capital density, WEDC created Ignite Wisconsin, a new program that will offer funding support for consortia based in regions across Wisconsin to support those consortia’s efforts to boost entrepreneurship. View PDF Want to know more? View the current guidelines and information for this program. Program Guidelines Program Information Ignite Wisconsin: The details We’re looking for the best and brightest ideas on how to support the innovative startups and brilliant ideas Wisconsin produces. Since the best ideas are built through collaboration, we’re looking for partners to help create new ways of building thriving ecosystems for high-growth startups. Applicants must collaborate with ecosystem partners in a formal or informal consortium. Consortia may use the funds for: Entrepreneur support and technical assistance Direct business funding Programmatic and space support consortium operations Applicants should clearly identify how their proposed activities will contribute to the goals of: Increasing early-stage investment in Wisconsin Establishing or expanding technical assistance for startups Launching or expanding entrepreneur-in-residence and fellowship programs Enhancing commercialization and innovation activities Sharing the stories of Wisconsin’s entrepreneurial success To learn more and apply WEDC expects to award four to six grants in the first year of this program, with individual grant amounts ranging from $200,000 to $2 million. Team members in WEDC’s Division of Entrepreneurship and Innovation are available to provide feedback and guidance for anyone considering submitting an application. We encourage reaching out well in advance of the application deadline to ensure adequate time for providing and incorporating the team’s input. Application deadline: Oct. 31, 2025 Let's connect! Elaine Coughlin Startup Ecosystem Director [email protected]