Fostering a dynamic ecosystem for high tech, high growth startups
Dense, well-connected entrepreneurial ecosystems—where entrepreneurs, institutions, and 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 talent, capital, entrepreneurial activity, and the formation and growth of high-tech, high-growth startups.
To support the goal of increasing Wisconsin’s startup and capital density, particularly among innovative, scalable companies with strong growth potential, 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.
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 plan, support, and create new ways of building thriving ecosystems for high-growth startups.
Consortia may use the funds for:
Applicants should clearly identify how their proposed activities will contribute to the goals of:
- Increasing early-stage investment in Wisconsin
- Establishing or expanding incubators, cohorts, and 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 second 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 guidance for prospective applicants. We encourage interested organizations to schedule a meeting with our team to discuss their potential application and to connect with us well in advance of the application deadline. Organizations wishing to apply should request an application by contacting zainab.hameed@wedc.org.
Application deadline: Oct. 1, 2026
