Kick-start your business or build a startup around real university technology
Bring your own idea or start with a vetted technology, Founder Factory helps you build and launch a startup.
Our two-stage pre-accelerator provides structure, support, and up to $50K in funding to move you to investment readiness.
Join a team. Build a Startup. Explore technologies with real IP and market potential
Fall Solicitation will be Announced in August
What is Founder Factory?
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 bridges the messy middle, that awkward place between early discovery and scalable growth where many startups stall out.
Existing Tech/Business
You may be ready to apply to the Stage 1 Pre-Accelerator! We will help you decide which step is appropriate for your team.
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.
Who is a fit for Founder Factory?
Founder Factory: If you are a founder, researcher, or entrepreneur interested in participating, we encourage you to express interest to receive updates and application information.
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.
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.