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

MKE Tech

The World of Talent is Changing. Is Your Business Ready?

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 remaining curious to address the region’s most pressing needs in tech. As the region has advanced, we’ve kept...

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....

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...

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...

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...

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...

zizzl health

Igniting a Revolution in the Traditional Benefits Landscape

A recent breakthrough is making it more affordable for employers to offer high quality group health insurance benefits. At the forefront of this benefits innovation stands zizzl health, a trailblazer in the field of Individual Coverage Health Reimbursement Arrangements (ICHRAs). When the Executive Order solidifying ICHRA as an ACA-compliant health...

CONCURRENCY

LEADING THE FUTURE WITH INNOVATION AND EXCELLENCE

At Concurrency, the journey is defined by a relentless pursuit of innovation, excellence, and an unwavering commitment to transforming businesses through cutting-edge technology solutions. As a distinguished 12-time Microsoft Partner of the Year winner and a top AI Partner, Concurrency is at the forefront of the digital revolution, empowering organizations...

BIOFORWARD WISCONSIN:

LEADING THE PATH TO PERSONALIZED MEDICINE

Pioneering Innovation in BiohealthNestled in the heart of America’s Midwest, BioForward Wisconsin represents Wisconsin’s vibrant biohealth sector which stands as a beacon of innovation and economic growth. A 501(c) 6 member association established in 1988 as the Wisconsin Biotechnology Association, the organization initially focused on biotechnology. It expanded its membership...

BADGER METER

A LEGACY OF SMART SOLUTIONS

Innovation at Badger Meter is about more than just technology—it is about empowering every stakeholder in the water ecosystem to acheive more sustainable, efficient, and effective outcomes. Badger Meter has stood as a beacon of innovation in the field of smart water solutions that aid in solving global water challenges....

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,...

SENTRY EQUIPMENT

BUILDING THE FOUNDATION FOR A BETTER, SAFER WORLD

Building the foundation for a better, safer world. For the general public, words such as “innovative” and “dynamic” aren’t commonly used to describe the manufacturing industry. But in an industry criticized for being slow to change, Sentry Equipment—a century-old, Oconomowoc-based manufacturing powerhouse—has solidified its position as a proud outlier driving...

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...

INTERNSHIP ON DEMAND

HOW INTERNSHIP ON DEMAND IS REDEFINING THE PATH TO CAREER SUCCESS

Every year, millions of college students graduate without ever having experienced the workplace firsthand. Employers demand experience, but when only 30% of college students complete an internship on an annual basis, what do those left on the outside looking in do? That’s where Internship on Demand comes in. Launched in...

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...

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...

DELTAHAWK

POWER REIMAGINED THROUGH TIME-PROVEN INNOVATION

Founded in 1996, DeltaHawk Engines, Inc. has always been driven by innovation and a determination to revolutionize aviation propulsion. Specializing in general aviation, military, uncrewed, and hybrid applications, DeltaHawk’s engines are a testament to ingenuity, reliability, and efficiency. In 2023, the company made history by achieving FAA Type Certification for...

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...

NVNG

ELEVATING WISCONSIN’S VENTURE SCENE: THE POWER OF NETWORKS UNLEASHED

Wisconsin-based NVNG is a boutique investment advisory firm with a unique superpower: curating connections. Founded by Carrie Thome and Grady Buchanan in 2019, NVNG (Nothing Ventured, Nothing Gained) is on a mission to make Wisconsin’s venture ecosystem globally competitive by leveraging the power of strategic networks. “We have the right...

ASSOCIATED BANK

MAKING BANKING BETTER FOR EVERYONE

Associated Bank (Associated) operates under the guiding principle of being the “Champion of You.” Every choice and investment made is inspired by customer feedback and aims to strengthen their financial health and simplify their financial lives. The bank’s ranking as #1 for Retail Banking Customer Satisfaction in the Upper Midwest...

FORJ

REVOLUTIONIZES MEMBER EXPERIENCE WITH INNOVATIVE PLATFORM, JOURNEY BY FORJ

Forj has emerged as a trailblazer in the world of association and professional network technology with the launch of their groundbreaking platform, Journey by Forj. The company is redefining how organizations engage with their members, combining the power of community with cutting-edge learning experiences. Forj, a forward-thinking SaaS company, has...

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...

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....

UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MILWAUKEE

A BEACON OF INNOVATION

Just minutes from downtown Milwaukee, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee (UWM) is one of the top research universities in the nation, and one of only two top-rated research universities in the state. Serving as a bridge between academia and industry, UWM does more than just ensure that all students have equitable...

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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