Programs begin April 2026
Develop the Founder. Launch the Venture
Founder Factory is Southeastern Wisconsin’s startup launchpad for anyone ready to turn a bold idea into a real, growing company. And here’s the best part: you don’t need your own tech to join. Whether you’re sitting on a clever idea, scouting for a team, or just convinced you could build something cool with the right people and support, you’re welcome here.
We help you get there with:
- Customized programming for your goals, your venture, and your technology.
- Milestone‑based funding because progress deserves fuel – up to $50,000!
- Hands‑on mentorship from people who’ve been in the trenches.
- A coordinated regional support network cheering you on and keeping you accountable.
Founder Factory exists to bridge the messy middle, that awkward place between early discovery and scalable growth where many startups stall out.
The program is led by the Universities of Wisconsin‘s Center for Technology Commercialization and UWM Research Foundation, backed by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, and powered by a network of innovative partners.
This program is a fit for:
- The startup‑curious and the startup‑committed , whether you’re already prototyping or still whispering your idea to friends “just to see.”
- Experienced founders and founders‑in‑training who believe their idea could go big and are ready to find out how big.
- Researchers, scientists, and inventors who’ve created something cool and are wondering, “Could this be a company?” (Spoiler: yes.)
- University and community innovators — I‑Corps grads, student teams, project squads, makers, hacker‑collectives, anyone who’s built something impressive.
- Entrepreneurs hunting for early money that doesn’t take equity, plus practical help turning your idea into a real business.
If you’ve got curiosity, a spark, and even the tiniest itch to build something, you might be a fit!
No Technology or Business?
Join one of our bootcamps to be matched with a technology, a team and free startup assistance!
Existing Technology or Business?
You may be ready to apply to the Stage 1 Pre-Accelerator! We will help you determine which step in the program is appropriate for your team…. Reach Out Today!
Bootcamps and Entity Creation Clinic dates announced soon!
Pre-Accelerator
Founder Factory cohorts launch Spring of 2026. If you are a founder, researcher, or entrepreneur interested in participating, we encourage you to express interest to receive updates and application information.
The Factory was Developed Through Thoughtful Collaboration
Founder Factory brings together universities, investors, industry leaders, and founder support organizations across Southeastern Wisconsin.
This collaborative model reduces duplication, aligns resources, and creates a clearer path from innovation to investable company.
Founder Factory is a WEDC funded initiative helping founders turn innovation into investment ready companies through funding, mentorship, and structured support.