15 Oct Startup surge: More than 60 companies to share ideas at 2025 Early Stage Symposium in Madison
Sixty-one companies will pitch to potential investors and others during the in-person Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium, set for Nov. 5-6 in Madison.
That includes 20 companies selected by conference organizers for the newly added “Open Mic” Quick Pitch on the morning of Nov. 5; 22 companies presenting Nov. 5 during the Tech Council Investor Networks (TCIN) tracks; and 19 more chosen for the fast-moving Elevator Pitch Olympics on Nov. 6. Seventy companies from across the Midwest applied to present at the annual conference, to meet with investors through the Investor Intros track, or both.
The “Open Mic” Quick Pitch session will feature two-minute presentations without audience questions or feedback. The fast-paced session is designed to give as many companies as possible the opportunity to pitch. The session is sponsored by Silver Lining Foundation.
The Tech Council Investor Networks tracks will feature companies making five-minute presentations during two sessions, morning and afternoon. Selected companies cover a range of technologies, from health-care innovations to advanced materials for new products, and from workforce solutions to pet care.
The companies selected for the Elevator Pitch Olympics will deliver 90-second pitches and be scored by a panel of investor judges. In addition to the judges’ feedback, participants will also be scored by members of the audience for selection of a People’s Choice award. The Elevator Pitch Olympics awards are sponsored by Madison Development Corp.
The conference will also feature:
- A Nov. 6 forum featuring gubernatorial candidates focusing on economic and technology development issues;
- Keynote speakers, targeted panel discussions and workshops featuring leading entrepreneurs, investors and others tied to the tech sector;
- An exhibit hall showcasing innovative Wisconsin companies; and
- A Nov. 5 conference reception, two luncheons, two breakfasts and other networking opportunities, including an investors-only dinner.