18 Feb From 25 communities statewide, 52 entries advance in 2025 Wisconsin Governor’s Business Plan Contest
Fifty-two entries from 25 distinct communities have advanced to the semi-final round of the annual Wisconsin Governor’s Business Plan Contest, contest producers announced.
Contestants emerged in first-round competition involving an independent panel of about 70 judges organized through the Wisconsin Technology Council and its programs, the Tech Council Innovation Network and the Tech Council Investor Networks. There were 153 first-round entries spread over four categories.
The semi-finalists represent those same four categories: advanced manufacturing (12), business services (13), information technology (13) and life sciences (14). Within those broad groups, plans range from novel metal separation technologies to turning dairy waste into sugars; from PFAS filtration for municipal water systems to new medical tests, treatments and devices; and artificial intelligence solutions for a variety of uses.
Those 52 plans also represent the geographic diversity of Wisconsin, with 25 coming from outside the state’s two largest cities. Communities represented include Appleton, Coon Valley, Eagle, Janesville, Kohler, Muskego, Neenah, Oshkosh, Rhinelander, Waupaca and Whitewater.
“Trends reflected in the top 52 entries match up well with Wisconsin’s traditional and emerging strengths,” said Gary Frings, chairman of the Tech Council. “Good ideas come from all high-growth sectors of the economy and from all corners of the state.”