INNOVATE® Milwaukee

Innovations of the World

INNOVATE® Milwaukee

THIS INCLUSIVE APPROACH REFLECTS OUR BELIEF THAT GENUINE INNOVATION FLOURISHES WHEN WE HARNESS THE FULL SPECTRUM OF TALENTS AND IDEAS OUR REGION HAS TO OFFER.
KATHY HENRICH, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, MKE TECH HUB COALITION

Dear Reader,

As we present this collection of innovative stories from southeast Wisconsin, we are reminded of the extraordinary transformation our region has undergone in recent years. What you hold in your hands is not merely a compilation of business successes, but a testament to the collaborative spirit and visionary thinking that has helped push Wisconsin forward.

Since the inception of the MKE Tech Hub Coalition, we’ve been guided by a bold vision of technology as an economic driver in the region. We’ve operated with a civic mindset, while constantly evolving to market needs and opportunities to address the region’s most pressing needs in tech.

Our approach balances the pursuit of transformational, high-impact initiatives with responsive programs that address immediate market needs. We refer to this focus as our “go far” and “go fast” strategies. These ensure that we build lasting foundations while remaining nimble enough to seize emerging opportunities. Through our three strategic lanes, attracting tech companies and talent, building a diverse tech talent pipeline, and scaling the innovation ecosystem, we are systematically addressing the key elements required for sustained technological advancement and economic prosperity.

The past year displayed immense progress in our region’s collective journey. We witnessed major investments and recognitions that signal southeast Wisconsin’s emergence as a formidable player in the national innovation economy:

  • Microsoft’s $3.3B investment focuses on artificial intelligence and economic growth in Wisconsin
  • BioHealth Tech Hub designation focuses on propelling Wisconsin into a global leader in personalized medicine and biohealth technologies
  • Water + Energy Forward engine focuses on addressing the water-energy-waste nexus at small and medium-sized manufacturers and wastewater utilities in Wisconsin

These accomplishments represent significant milestones on our path toward becoming a “superstar” tech hub. However, they tell only part of the story. The true strength of the region lies in the interconnected ecosystem of innovators, entrepreneurs, established businesses, educational institutions, and community partners who collaborate daily to continue the momentum in the region.

As you explore these accounts of creative problem-solving, perseverance, and vision, you’ll discover that many represent members of the MKE Tech Hub Coalition. Yet we’ve intentionally included voices from across the broader community, recognizing that meaningful progress emerges from diverse perspectives and collaborative efforts that transcend organizational boundaries. This inclusive approach reflects our belief that genuine innovation flourishes when we harness the full spectrum of talents and ideas our region has to offer.

The accomplishments featured in these pages should inspire pride in what we’ve achieved together and optimism for what lies ahead. As we continue this journey together, we invite you to find your place in this unfolding story. Stay up to date on what’s happening in the #mketech region by visiting choosemketech.org

Kathy Henrich, Chief Executive Officer, Molly Mulroy, Board Chair, MKE Tech Hub Coalition.


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Ecosystem Champions

Thank you to MKE Tech for making this book possible, they are the voice and champion of Innovate® Milwaukee that unifies the community!

Featured Thought Leaders

Featured Thought Leaders

Featured Innovators

Featured Innovators

ECOURT REPORTERS

TECHNOLOGY TO LOCATE AND BOOK LEGAL SERVICE PROVIDERS

eCourt Reporters is a court reporter/women-owned company. eCourt Reporters was created out of a need for locating qualified, experienced court reporters and legal videographers. eCourt Reporters’ app is a custom-built, high-tech, innovative technology to schedule court reporters and other legal services. Karen Renee, CEO; Judy Gerulat, COO; and Justin Furst,...

MKE TECH HUB

A LEGACY OF INNOVATION DRIVING A FUTURE OF IMPACT

Shaped by a rich industrial legacy, Milwaukee is evolving into a beacon of modern innovation. With biohealth, AI, water, energy technology, smart manufacturing, and financial services leading the way, Milwaukee’s dynamic ecosystem is not only thriving, but attracting attention from investors, entrepreneurs, and innovators worldwide. Here, tradition meets technology, and...

FINDORFF

TRANSFORMING A SPACE SO IT BETTER BENEFITS THE STUDENTS, FACULTY, AND COMMUNITY

TRANSFORMING A SPACE SO IT BETTER BENEFITS THE STUDENTS, FACULTY, AND COMMUNITY For over a decade, Findorff has been honored to build, reimagine, and renovate various spaces at Marquette University. From smaller and expedited projects to multi-million state-of-the-art facilities, Findorff understands the importance of innovation and deeply appreciates and values...

BAIRD

DRIVING INNOVATION THROUGHOUT THE REGION AND BEYOND

Founded in 1919 in Milwaukee, Baird’s financial advice and expertise has helped guide clients through changing market cycles and unexpected events across generations. Today, Baird is actively investing in many initiatives throughout Wisconsin to position the state as a center for innovation. These activities are part of the firm’s ongoing...

Aeroplicity

Simplifying Aerospace and Defense: The Aeroplicity Story

Aeroplicity has emerged as a transformative force in the aerospace and defense industry, with a mission to simplify and modernize supply chain and aftermarket operations. Leveraging cutting-edge aerospace-grade technologies, the company is reshaping how organizations manage data, compliance, and operational efficiency. At its core, Aeroplicity addresses the industry’s most pressing...

INTRNLS 

SHAPING THE FUTURE

Intrnls is at the forefront of revolutionizing the carbon capture industry. With a clear focus on producing the world’s most efficient carbon capture filters, Intrnls is not just a company; it’s a transformative force dedicated to addressing one of the world’s most pressing environmental issues – reducing atmospheric carbon dioxide....

Epochal Intelligence

The Focus is Unlocking Access to Information and Building Communities Within the IT Space

The Midwest’s tech scene isn’t just growing – it’s booming, with Wisconsin heavily contributing. Milwaukee has transformed from an industrial powerhouse into a digital dynamo, attracting major players and cementing its status as an emerging tech hub where innovation meets Midwestern grit. The opportunities here are continuing to emerge every...

BiaCure Therapies

Redefining Healthcare Standards

BiaCure™ Therapies Redefining Healthcare Standards: The Wisconsin Leaders Bringing Breakthrough Medical Solutions to Life. Innovation isn’t just about discovering new technologies—it’s about assembling the right team of experts to solve the most pressing unmet clinical needs. This belief has fueled every venture led by Laura King. BiaCure is more than...

Ideawake

REVOLUTIONIZING CORPORATE INNOVATION FROM MILWAUKEE

REVOLUTIONIZING CORPORATE INNOVATION FROM MILWAUKEE In a world where ideas hold immense value, Ideawake is on a mission to empower companies to mine their most valuable resource: their employees’ creativity and insights. Founded in 2013 by Coby Skonord and Trae Tessmann, Ideawake began with a vision to make innovation accessible...

MILWAUKEE METROPOLITAN SEWERAGE DISTRICT

INNOVATION IN WATER MANAGEMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP

INNOVATION IN WATER MANAGEMENT AND ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARDSHIP Since 1994, the Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) has captured and cleaned an impressive 98.6% of the water entering the regional sewers from its 423-square-mile service area. This is a significant achievement, considering that many metropolitan areas struggle to capture and clean the...

BROOKSOURCE

A RELATIONSHIP-FOCUSED APPROACH TO BUILDING THE FUTURE OF TECH & MILWAUKEE!

Since 2000, Brooksource has established and maintained lasting relationships with its clients, consultants, and the Milwaukee community to create unparalleled experiences. Brooksource is a trusted services provider that specializes in delivering Engineering and IT initiatives for Fortune 500 organizations and the public sector through Experience-Driven Staffing, Professional Services, as well...

AfroCharts

AMPLIFYING THE PULSE OF AFRICAN MUSIC WORLDWIDE

AMPLIFYING THE PULSE OFAFRICAN MUSIC WORLDWIDE AfroCharts, founded by Leonard Novati in 2020, is a pioneering digital music platform dedicated to showcasing the rich tapestry of African music to the global audiences. Headquartered in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, AfroCharts has rapidly grown to become a vibrant hub for artists, fans, and event...

READY REBOUND

ELITE HEALTHCARE NAVIGATION FOR OUR HEROES AND THEIR FAMILIES.

Ready Rebound is a Health and Wellness Solution for first responders and their families. Through early injury detection and expedited, quality care, they significantly reduce time to recovery and decreases risk of injuries. The ProblemWhen it comes to first responders, local governments are facing unique challenges. Departments are chronically understaffed....

NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL

INNOVATING IN FINANCIAL SERVICES FOR MORE THAN 165 YEARS

INNOVATING IN FINANCIAL SERVICES FOR MORE THAN 165 YEARS Founded in 1857, Northwestern Mutual, a FORTUNE 500® financial services company, embodies a unique culture dedicated to helping people achieve financial security. As a mutual company, Northwestern Mutual answers to its policy owners — not Wall Street. Through a comprehensive planning...

CITY RIDERS

BRIDGING THE GAP: HOW CITY RIDERS LINKS LIKE-MINDED ENTHUSIASTS

City Riders, born in 2018 from the frustrations of its founder, Thomas McElroy, embodies a passion for community and exploration. Motivated by the inconsistency of his riding companions, McElroy envisioned a solution that would unite like-minded enthusiasts globally. This vision materialized into City Riders, a platform connecting individuals who share...

MSOE

INNOVATION AT THE FOREFRONT

Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE) stands as a beacon of innovation, driving forward the boundaries of what’s possible in engineering, business, technology and nursing. With a legacy that intertwines with the heart of Milwaukee’s development, MSOE has become synonymous with excellence, opportunity, and the relentless pursuit of knowledge. At the...

DCI MARKETING

CELEBRATING ITS 80TH ANNIVERSARY IN 2024, DCI MARKETING FOSTERS A CULTURE OF INNOVATION FOCUSED ON SPECIFIC SOLUTIONS FOR FORTUNE 50 COMPANIES, MAJOR RETAILERS AND CONSUMERS.

As American forces crossed the English Channel to liberate France in June 1944, Milwaukee native Lloyd A. Sauer was thinking forward to a post-war era. Sauer purchased a small company called ColorPrint Products Printing and began producing window signage for shoe stores. But it was Cadillac and Harley-Davidson that propelled...

DATA HOLDINGS

KEEPING BUSINESSES’ DATA SECURE AND AVAILABLE

Data Holdings is a premier Tier III+ commercial data center, centrally located in Milwaukee with a LEED gold design. Offering a full suite of solutions and services designed to meet any needs, Data Holdings is a highly secure facility with 24/7 staffing and monitoring. Commissioned in 2013 by Potawatomi Ventures,...

GENO.ME

A REAL-WORLD APPROACH TO BETTER CLINICAL RESEARCH OUTCOMES

Geno.Me is a biotechnology company that was born from the idea of empowering people to take greater ownership of their health data, because it is a valuable and necessary asset to advance medical research. With a focus on creating better ways to treat populations that have diseases with a genetic...

WEAR-TECH

INNOVATING SAFETY

WEAR-TECH – DETECT – PREDICT – PROTECT™ “Our homegrown AI companion, MAHI™, is aware of its users’ environment and alerts the wearer and the caregivers if a vulnerable loved one inadvertently heads towards a hazard.” A profound loss propelled an innovator in Hartland, WI, to create predictive safety technologies for...

CODEWORKS

PURPOSE. PASSION. PEOPLE.

Codeworks began in 1995 when Mark Theisen, a software developer, recognized the need for a software development consulting firm that provided high-level quality talent at reasonable rates. There was a lot of competition popping up in the IT consulting industry at the time, but he saw companies that were inefficient...

THE WATER COUNCIL

INNOVATING THE FUTURE: THE WATER COUNCIL’S VISIONARY JOURNEY

In the heart of Milwaukee, where the vast expanse of Lake Michigan meets the city’s vibrant streets, a transformation in water technology and stewardship is underway. This isn’t just a story of a city that grew from the rich waters of the Great Lakes; it’s a narrative of revolution, where...

ROCKWELL AUTOMATION

EXPANDING HUMAN POSSIBILITY

The Allen-Bradley® Clock Tower, part of the Rockwell Automation headquarters, is an iconic piece of the Milwaukee skyline and a symbol of the city’s rich industrial and technological heritage. For 120 years, Rockwell Automation has been innovating and engineering solutions that advance industrial automation – allowing manufacturers around the globe...

CODEBABY

AI THAT ENHANCES HUMAN CAPACITY

As AI reshapes industries, CodeBaby leads in emotionally intelligent, human-centric AI. Specializing in real-time, 3D animated avatars, CodeBaby bridges the gap between automation and authentic interaction—enhancing, rather than replacing, human capacity. Founded to improve communication and accessibility, CodeBaby redefines engagement in education, healthcare, customer service and workforce training. By merging...

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The Publisher

Daniel Esterhuyse

Daniel is the Head of International Publishing Partnerships at Innovations of the World. Born and raised in South Africa, he currently resides in Johannesburg with his wife of 19 years, their 12-year-old daughter, and three cats—FluffPuff, Roxy, and Gizmo, all girls.  An entrepreneur since his school days, Daniel has co-founded various small and large businesses.... click to read more

The Publisher

Daniel Esterhuyse

Daniel is the Head of International Publishing Partnerships at Innovations of the World. Born and raised in South Africa, he currently resides in Johannesburg with his wife of 19 years, their 12-year-old daughter, and three cats—FluffPuff, Roxy, and Gizmo, all girls.  An entrepreneur since his school days, Daniel has co-founded various small and large businesses.... click to read more

Other Ecosystems