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The Wisconsin Technology Council News Room provides news about the Tech Council, its subsidiaries and affiliates, and their efforts to assist in the development, growth and success of technology-based businesses in Wisconsin.

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Partnership first in nation to help Wisconsin companies in Foreign-Trade Zone

June 17, 2013

A new partnership between the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) and the Port of Milwaukee will make it easier for state businesses to take full advantage of the regional Foreign-Trade Zone. This unique effort is designed to increase the participation in the Port’s Foreign-Trade Zone and boost international trade by managing tariffs and in some cases reducing or eliminating those fees.

Latest 'WisBusiness: The Show' features Sun Mountain Capital's Brian Birk

June 13, 2013

On the latest episode of “WisBusiness.com: The Show,” Liz Schrum speaks with Brian Birk, managing director of Sun Mountain Capital in New Mexico, who attended the recent Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Conference in Middleton; Tom Still discusses Wisconsin’s expertise in health information technology; and the Wisbusiness.com Stock Report for early June 2013.

 

The biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, is sponsored by Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., Madison Gas & Electric, UW-Milwaukee and BMO Harris Bank.

Journal Sentinel: Pro golfer Andy North among new investors in Kayo Technology Inc.

June 13, 2013

Two-time U.S. Open winner Andy North is among several new investors in Kayo Technology Inc., a Madison company that aims to modernize the practice of physical therapy.

Journal Sentinel: Growth stalls in Wisconsin, but there are signs of hope

June 12, 2013

What we know is this: Over the next decade, innovation and entrepreneurism are the keys to producing a more robust economy in Wisconsin. And that's why, despite the scary news coming out of the statistic mills, there are still reasons to be optimistic if you're a dyed-in-the-wool Badger.

Waukesha County student wins 2nd annual 'Wisconsin YES' youth biz plan contest

June 12, 2013

Sara Linderman, an 8th grader at Pilgrim Park Middle School and a resident of Brookfield, is the grand prize winner in Wisconsin YES!, a youth business plan contest for students in middle and high school.  

State Journal: Senate's turn to support startups

June 11, 2013

The state Assembly just approved a smart plan to help young companies in Wisconsin expand and hire. Now the Senate should act.

Bugher to retire after guiding University Research Park growth, success

June 11, 2013

Mark Bugher, who helped to mold UW-Madison's University Research Park into an economic and technology transfer force admired nationally, plans to retire in October.

BizTimes: Cudahy donates $2 million for UWM Innovation Campus

June 10, 2013

Just as construction kicked off on the first building at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Innovation Campus this week, Chancellor Michael Lovell announced that the project will receive a $2 million gift from philanthropist Michael Cudahy.

Journal Sentinel: Exact Sciences applies to FDA to sell colon cancer test to public

June 10, 2013

Four years after Kevin T. Conroy took the top job at a struggling biotech company, Exact Sciences Corp. said Monday it has submitted an application to federal regulators for approval to market a DNA-based, non-invasive colon cancer test.

Journal Sentinel: Week's high-tech developments could give venture capital a boost

June 8, 2013

The state's still-emerging high-tech economy saw developments on several fronts last week, creating optimism that years of talk might finally yield significant action.

State Journal: Fish-finding app, made in Madison, lures Wal-Mart's interest

June 7, 2013

Before Brian Jensen’s mobile app, Fishidy, showed up in the sporting goods sections of hundreds of Wal-Mart stores, the Sun Prairie native got all but skunked on a fishing trip to northern Minnesota.

Assembly passes venture bill, 91-2; Tech Council applauds vote, urges Senate action

June 7, 2013

The Wisconsin Assembly voted, 91-2, June 6 to approve Assembly Bill 181, the early stage capital bill, and send it to the Senate for further action. Read a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel story here. Read a statement from the Wisconsin Growth Capital Coalition here.

Journal Sentinel: Odyne Systems awarded plug-in hybrid system contract

June 6, 2013

Odyne Systems of Waukesha has received a contract to supply its plug-in hybrid system technology to about 120 large plug-in hybrid trucks to utilities under a $45 million contract with the research arm of the utility industry.

It's a wrap! Check out all the coverage from the 2013 Wis. "Treps Conference

June 6, 2013

The 2013 Wisconsin Entrepreneurs' Conference was held June 4-5 at the Marriott West in Middleton. View coverage of the event here.

Device to speed healing of diabetic foot ulcers wins Gov's Biz Plan Contest

June 5, 2013

A company that has developed a portable device for treating diabetic foot ulcers won the grand prize in the 2013 Wisconsin Governor’s Business Plan Contest, organizers announced Wednesday.

NitricGen Inc., a Madison-based firm, designed and patented a shoe box-sized device that produces nitric oxide from room air to treat chronic foot ulcers, a serious complication of diabetes. The device electrically creates a flow of nitric oxide gas to be applied by the patient.

UW-Whitewater: Student entrepreneur launches quadcopter

June 4, 2013

Mitchell Fiene, a University of Wisconsin-Whitewater sophomore, has taken his business idea to the skies after finding a solution to an arduous farming practice - crop scouting.

State Journal: Madison stem cell company CDI files for IPO

June 4, 2013

Cellular Dynamics International, created by UW-Madison stem cell pioneer James Thomson in 2004, plans to sell its stock on the public market, the first Madison company to go public in six years.

At least $163 million invested in state firms, angel report shows

June 3, 2013

Wisconsin companies raised more than $163 million in early stage funding in 2012, a 7 percent jump from 2011, according to a new report from the Wisconsin Angel Network.

Wisconsin entrepreneurs see bright future ahead

June 3, 2013

The numbers remain gloomy, but many believe that after more than a decade of serious effort, Wisconsin finally may be re-invigorating its entrepreneurial climate.

Count 'em! Top 10 reasons to attend next week's Entrepreneurs' Conference

May 31, 2013

Still on the fence about attending the 11th annual Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Conference in Milwaukee? Here are 10 reasons to drop in Tuesday and Wednesday for one of the Midwest’s premier events for entrepreneurs.

Entrepreneurs' Conference featured on 'For the Record'

May 31, 2013

Watch "For the Record" with Neil Heinen this Sunday at 10 a.m. on WISC-TV Channel 3. Heinen talks about the growing spirit of entrepreneurship and previews the upcoming Wisconsin Entrepreneurs' Conference. Guests include Tom Still, Wisconsin Technology Council; Melissa Turczyn, Michael Best & Friedrich and 2013 conference co-chair; and Mark Gehring, Asthmapolis and conference panelist.

SOLOMO Technology raises $1.7M

May 30, 2013
A Madison-based provider of mobile technology solutions closed a $1.7 million funding round to help accelerate product development and increase sales and marketing, the company announced today.

Latest 'WisBusiness.com: The Show' features WMC president Kurt Bauer

May 30, 2013

On the latest episode of “WisBusiness.com: The Show,” Liz Schrum speaks with Kurt Bauer, president of Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, about current and upcoming state legislation, including the state budget; Tom Still discusses why Michigan is a potential role model for our economic development; and the Wisbusiness.com Stock Report for early June 2013.

Leading investors, entrepreneurs on tap for Wis. Entrepreneurs' Conference

May 29, 2013

More than 40 investors and entrepreneurs will talk about best practices, success stories – and even how they learned from failure – during panel discussions at the Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Conference in Middleton. Tracks within the two-day conference are built around three distinct stages that matter to all startup companies: launch, grow and succeed. Seasoned entrepreneurs, investors and others who work with emerging companies will take part in each discussion. To register, visit http://www.witrepsconference.com/.

Federal patent reform coordinator to speak June 5 at 'Treps Conference

May 28, 2013

Janet Gongola, the patent reform coordinator at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in Alexandria, Va., will take part in a panel discussion during the second day of the Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Conference in Middleton.

‘Diligent Dozen’ selected to present live June 4 at the Wis. 'Treps Conference

May 23, 2013

Finalists representing diverse tech-based sectors in Wisconsin’s startup economy will present live to judges in the Governor’s Business Plan Contest during the 11th annual Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Conference in Middleton.

'Start Me Up' to bring healthcare CIOs, entrepreneurs and investors together

May 22, 2013

Healthcare industry leaders, local health information technology startups, investors and other industry leaders will converge at the first “Start Me Up” Meet-up Day June 10 at the Fluno Center on the UW-Madison campus.

Latest 'WisBusiness: The Show' features WellIntel CEO Marian Singer

May 17, 2013

On the latest episode of “WisBusiness.com: The Show,” Liz Schrum speaks with Marian Singer, CEO of Shorewood-based WellIntel, about groundwater monitoring from above ground; Tom Still discusses the impact of new energy reserves being found in America and around the world; and the WisBusiness.com Stock Report for mid-May covers Wisconsin's business climate rankings and business tax rankings.

 

The biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, is sponsored by Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., Madison Gas & Electric, UW-Milwaukee and BMO Harris Bank.

ETC's Fred Foster to receive 2013 'Seize the Day' award at 'Treps Conference

May 16, 2013

Fred Foster, a Madison native who founded ETC (Electronic Theatre Controls Inc.) will receive the 10th annual Ken Hendricks Memorial “Seize the Day” award at the Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Conference.

Journal Sentinel: Snowshoe Food selected for TechStar start-up accelerator program

May 13, 2013

A Madison company with a unique, inexpensive technology for authenticating mobile transactions, has been accepted into the highly selective TechStars Boulder start-up accelerator program. Claus Moberg, chief executive officer of Snowshoe Food Inc., and the company's four other employees will spend the summer in Boulder, Co. working with mentors and further developing their company.

Journal Sentinel: Revolution Labs receives $100K in state grants to boost inner city businesses

May 13, 2013

Two state agencies will provide a total of $100,000 to Revolution Labs, a Milwaukee program aimed at providing best practices training and funding for five inner-city start-ups, Gov. Scott Walker said Monday.

State Journal: Executive Q&A - Dan Blake of the Wisconsin Angel Network

May 13, 2013

Dan Blake, 31, took over in March as director of the Wisconsin Angel Network, part of the Wisconsin Technology Council. Read his interview with the Wisconsin State Journal’s Judy Newman here.

Journal Sentinel: ZBB Energy continues international focus with S. Korea order

May 10, 2013

ZBB Energy Corp.. said it has received more orders from Lotte Chemical Co. of South Korea for its batteries and energy storage system technology. The Menomonee Falls firm has been working with Lotte for several years under a partnership, working together on the next generation of the company’s zinc bromide flow battery.

‘Silicon Badgers’ will discuss Wisconsin, California parallels at 'Treps Conference

May 9, 2013

Successful investors and entrepreneurs from California’s Silicon Valley will offer perspectives on opportunities and challenges in Wisconsin’s tech sectors during a 90-minute presentation at the Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Conference, to be held June 4-5 at the Marriott West in Middleton. To register, go t http://www.witrepsconference.com/.

Journal Sentinel: Biopharmaceutical company Inviragen to be acquired by Takeda

May 8, 2013

Inviragen Inc., a privately held biopharmaceutical company with facilities in Madison, has agreed to be bought by Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd. for an upfront payment of $35 million, and future payments of up to $215 million tied to meeting future clinical milestones.

State Journal: Tech businesses are up in the Madison area, new listing shows

May 6, 2013

More than 600 businesses in the Madison area are considered high-tech, according to a survey by Madison Gas & Electric. The 2013 Greater Madison Area High-Tech Directory is out, and based on statistics compiled by MGE, there are 625 companies that fall into categories that include computer software development, bioscience and medical devices. That's up from 580 listed a year ago.

Latest 'WisBusiness: The Show' features WAN director Dan Blake

May 6, 2013

On the latest episode of “WisBusiness.com: The Show,” Liz Schrum speaks with Dan Blake, the new director of the Wisconsin Angel Network, about Wisconsin's early stage investment opportunities for businesses and investors; Tom Still explains how bipartisan cooperation is the best way to grow Wisconsin's economy; and the WisBusiness.com Stock Report for early May covers early stage capital and foreign land buying. 

 

The biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, is sponsored by Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., Madison Gas & Electric, UW-Milwaukee and BMO Harris Bank.

BizTimes: SHINE Medical Technology reaches key milestone

May 3, 2013

A company that plans to build a production plant in Janesville says it has reached a milestone that further demonstrates its ability to produce a medical isotope used in more than 40 million medical imaging tests each year.

State Journal: ETC buys former Sunny Industries building

May 2, 2013

Middleton-based ETC, Electronic Theatre Controls, is expanding to Mazomanie. ETC, which designs and manufactures lighting systems and rigging equipment for entertainment and architectural uses, has purchased the vacant building that formerly housed commercial printer Sunny Industries, later known as Synergy Web Graphics.

Testimony wrap-up from public hearing on state-leveraged fund-of-funds

May 1, 2013

The Assembly Committee on Jobs, Economy and Mining held a public hearing Wednesday in Madison on Assembly Bill 181, which would create a state-leveraged fund-of-funds. Read on for testimony on the bill from Wisconsin Technology Council President Tom Still, Steve Lyons and Trevor D’Souza of the Wisconsin Growth Capital Coalition, and Delora Newton of the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce. Also, read blog items from Wisconsin Angel Network Director Dan Blake, including comments from entrepreneurs who join Still during his testimony.

Bipartisan bill will create state-backed fund to spur job creation

April 29, 2013

A bill that would create a state-leveraged “fund of funds” to invest in some of Wisconsin’s most promising early stage companies was introduced today by a bipartisan group of state legislators.

Journal Sentinel: 3-D printing company Digifii wins BizStarts college contest

April 29, 2013

As the first place winner of the 2013 BizStarts Milwaukee Collegiate Business Plan Competition, Digifii will be entered into Phase 3 of the Governor's Business Plan Contest.

Breakouts at 'Treps Conference will help emerging firms lauch, grow and succeed

April 29, 2013

Tracks within the two-day conference are built around three distinct stages that matter to all startup companies: launch, grow and succeed. Seasoned entrepreneurs, investors and others who work with emerging companies will take part in each discussion.

Journal Sentinel: Moving Milwaukee forward

April 24, 2013

Ideas, risk-taking and industrial muscle built Milwaukee. To move forward, the region needs brain power and an economy fueled by entrepreneurs and start-ups.

WisBusiness.com: Ward reflects on higher ed's changing landscape

April 24, 2013

“Higher education -- whether we like it or not -- is in big, irreversible change,” said Ward, speaking to a Wisconsin Innovation Network event on Tuesday in Madison.

State Journal: Biz Expo highlights ways startups are using digital technology

April 24, 2013

Innovation Way was home, for a few hours, to a group of startup companies that are plowing into the world of digital technology and social media. The startups, which set up shop at the 19th annual Biz Expo sponsored by the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce, are trying to help traditional businesses in an increasingly digital environment dominated by smartphones and apps.

Shark Tank's Lucash to speak at Wis. Entrepreneurs' Conference

April 22, 2013

Jason Lucash, co-founder of OrigAudio and a nationally known entrepreneur whose credentials include landing an investment during an episode of ABC’s “Shark Tank,” will speak at the 11th annual Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Conference.

WisBusiness.com: State rolls out new pavilion to make connections at BIO in Chicago

April 22, 2013

More than 50 Wisconsin biotech companies and research facilities, plus 150 people from the Badger State, are expected to attend BIO International 2013 in Chicago this week.

Latest 'WisBusiness: The Show' features PSC member Ellen Nowak

April 19, 2013

On the latest episode of “WisBusiness.com: The Show,” Liz Schrum talks with Ellen Nowak of the state Public Service Commission about regulatory issues affecting the business community; Tom Still explains how the finalists in the Governor’s Business Plan Contest reflect state market trends; and the WisBusiness.com Stock Report for mid-April 2013 covers the China trade mission and Oshkosh Corp.

The biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, is sponsored by Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., Madison Gas & Electric, UW-Milwaukee and BMO Harris Bank.

Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin companies raise millions in venture capital

April 18, 2013

Wisconsin companies raised $18.42 million of venture capital in the first quarter, the best showing to start the year since 2010.

Journal Sentinel: Loan guarantee will support ZBB Energy exports

April 17, 2013

ZBB Energy Corp. said it has won approval from the Export-Import Bank for loan guarantees to back $1.14 million in loans from InvestorsBank to the maker of energy storage systems and hybrid vehicle controls. The transaction will provide working capital to help support sales of ZBB products that are exported from its factory in Menomonee Falls.

BizTimes: Badger Meter acquires California technology company

April 17, 2013

Milwaukee-based Badger Meter Inc. has acquired Los Gatos, Calif.-based software technology company Aquacue Inc. for $14 million. The addition will help advance Badger Meter’s water usage management technology.

17 entries advance to second phase in 'Wisconsin YES!' youth biz plan contest

April 16, 2013

A statewide panel of judges have selected 17 entries to advance to Phase 2 of Wisconsin YES!, a youth business plan contest for students in middle school and high school. Students submitted their science- and tech-based 250-word business summaries through the contest website last month to compete in Phase 1 of the contest. Professionals from across the state served as judges, scoring the entries and providing constructive feedback to the students.

Journal Sentinel: Why 'treps are key to jump-starting Milwaukee's economic rebirth

April 15, 2013

There are many paths to economic growth, all with their advocates. Many scholars and businesspeople believe the spark for growth comes from the entrepreneur.

 

"Entrepreneurship is where the new ideas come from that produce economic progress," Randall Holcombe of Florida State said. "If you didn't have any entrepreneurs, everything would be the same next week as it is this week, same next year as it was last year. Economic progress would come to a halt."

State Journal: Thermo Fisher to buy Life Technologies for $13.6M

April 15, 2013

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. plans to pay about $13.6 billion for Life Technologies Corp. in a deal that will position the scientific instrument maker to benefit from the expected growth of personalized medicine, which uses genetic analysis to tailor treatments to patients.

 

Life Technologies was formed in November 2008 through the combination of Invitrogen Corp. and Applied Biosystems Inc.

From software to medical devices, Biz Plan Contest finalists show state’s technology range

April 11, 2013

Twenty-one entries representing sectors as broad as software, agriculture, transportation, medical devices and innovations in manufacturing are competing in the finalist round of the 10th annual Wisconsin Governor’s Business Plan Contest.

Business Journal: Milwaukee named an unexpected hub of high-tech innovation

April 10, 2013

Milwaukee residents know the city is more than just beer and manufacturing, and this week it got some recognition for its growing tech scene. Techie.com put Milwaukee on its list of 10 most unexpected cities for high-technology innovation.

La Crosse Tribune: Research extends beyond classrooms

April 10, 2013

The National Conference on Undergraduate Research will be held this week on the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse campus. This is the second time that UW-L will host NCUR, a national event that brings together students and faculty mentors from across the country to share their research. This is a unique opportunity to shed light on the outstanding research taking place on campuses across our state and how that activity enhances the learning experience.

Journal Sentinel: Golden Angels Investors to invest in TechStars Chicago fund

April 9, 2013

The Golden Angels Investors LLC will put money into a new fund being raised by TechStars Chicago, an organization that accelerates young companies from offices in the Merchandise Mart in downtown Chicago. The network's investment will be less than $100,000 but it will give the Golden Angels early access for the next four years to the 10 companies TechStars Chicago runs through its three-month-long program each summer, said Tim Keane, the Milwaukee group's founder and director.

Journal Sentinel: State seeks proposals to manage $3 million venture capital fund

April 8, 2013

The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority is seeking proposals to form and manage a $3 million venture capital fund that would focus on making investments in Milwaukee. The agency, known as WHEDA, wants the fund to have a special focus on the Transform Milwaukeearea. Transform Milwaukee is a public/private partnership led by WHEDA that is trying to restore economic prosperity to the 30th Street industrial corridor, Menomonee Valley, Port of Milwaukee and an area called the Aerotropolis, which is located south of General Mitchell International Airport.

State Journal: Health care tech meetup group focuses on innovation

April 7, 2013

Madison's new cluster of health care technology companies is coming into its own. With at least five local businesses started by former Epic Systems Corp. employees that have created about 400 jobs in the past three years as well as other companies without Epic ties, a Madison health tech meetup group has been formed. The group has nearly 150 participants, organizer Jonathan Baran said.

PopSci: Meet The NASA Scientist Who's Reinventing The Wheel

April 5, 2013

Salim Nasser, a NASA engineer, inventor and quadriplegic, has created a wheel that could dramatically reduce how much energy a wheelchair user expends moving his or her chair forward. Now Rowheels, the company he cofounded in 2012, hopes to bring the wheel to market later this year. If successful, it should mean more efficient mobility and healthier bodies for users, Nasser says.

Aver Informatics chosen for health entrepreneurship program

April 5, 2013

Green Bay-based Aver Informatics was one of 13 companies chosen to join a three-year entrepreneurship program to accelerate growth for consumer health companies.


More than 400 companies from 22 countries applied to be a part of the program. Companies were chosen from across the U.S., Ireland and Israel. The companies will be closely monitored by GE and StartUp Health, a healthtech startup incubator.

Asthmapolis raises $5M to expand digital health respiratory solutions

April 4, 2013

Asthmapolis (az-MAP-o-lis), the FDA-cleared mobile health solution for asthma and COPD, today announces it has raised $5 million in a Series A round from The Social+Capital Partnership ("Social Capital"). With the funds, Asthmapolis will deliver new innovations and services for its comprehensive solution of sensors, leading mobile technology and personalized support, extending its reach to the more than 50 million people living with chronic respiratory disease in the United States today. 

Journal Sentinel: Bioenergy research hub in Madison renewed; awarded $125M

April 4, 2013

The Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center in Madison has won a five-year renewal from the federal Energy Department to continue its research on sustainable next-generation biofuel technologies. The renewal awards the center, based at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, $125 million over five years. The center was created with an initial award of the same amount -- $25 million a year over five years -- in 2007. The center's mission is to research sustainable production of cellulosic biofuels -- crops such as switchgrass and  that don't compete with sources of food to make energy.

WEDC certifies three companies for early stage investment tax credits

April 3, 2013

Three emerging Wisconsin companies have been certified for Early Stage Investment tax credits by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC).  WEDC certified BadgerMax, Inc., Waunakee, Winstruments, Inc., Madison, and SOLOMO Technology, Inc., Madison, as Qualified News Business Ventures, eligible for investment tax credits. In addition, SOLOMO Technology was approved for a $125,000 Wisconsin Venture Debt Fund loan.

State Journal: Epic alumni start new ventures

April 2, 2013
In the first of a two-part series, the Wisconsin State Journal looks at several companies that were started by former employees of Epic Systems, the electronic health records software company located in Verona.

Journal Sentinel: Angels on the Water to begin investing in gener8tor grads

April 2, 2013

Angels on the Water, a recently formed angel investing group in northeastern Wisconsin, said Tuesday it will invest $100,000 into five of the six start-ups graduating from an accelerator program on Thursday night.

State Journal: Cellular Dynamics to open 2nd location in California

April 2, 2013

Cellular Dynamics International, Madison, said Monday it is opening a facility in Novato, Calif., that will become its second location. The company, founded by UW-Madison stem pioneer James Thomson, has signed an agreement to lease space for up to five years at the Buck Institute for Research on Aging.

BizTimes: Medical College employee charged with economic espionage

April 2, 2013

A former employee of the Medical College of Wisconsin has been charged with economic espionage, according to a federal criminal complaint. The complaint alleges that Hua Jun Zhao, 42, stole three bottles of a patented cancer research compound valued at $8,000 and additional research data relating to the compound.

Alfalight sells commercial product segment to Ariz. company

March 30, 2013

Alfalight, Inc., a Madison-based manufacturer of laser components and electro-optical systems sold its commercial segment product lines to a provider of high-definition laser projection light engines for mobile devices.  The terms of the deal with Compound Photonics were not disclosed, but further details can be found on Alfalight's web site. Alfalight will retain its product line for defense customers.  

Latest 'WisBusiness: The Show' features Rose Oswald Poels of WBA

March 29, 2013

On the latest episode of “WisBusiness.com: The Show,” Liz Schrum talks with Rose Oswald Poels of the Wisconsin Bankers Association about new lending rules for banks; Tom Still explains why trade is so important to the Wisconsin economy; and the WisBusiness.com Stock Report for late March 2013 covers venture capital and Walgreens.

 

The biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, is sponsored by Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., Madison Gas & Electric, UW-Milwaukee and BMO Harris Bank.

State Journal: Monona company files for permit to build medical isotope factory

March 29, 2013

SHINE Medical Technologies, Monona, has submitted its application to the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission for a permit to build a medical isotope factory in Janesville.

State Journal: Primorigen Biosciences gets grant for stem cell work

March 27, 2013

Primorigen Biosciences, Madison, has received a $1.2 million Phase 2 Small  Business Innovation Research grant from the National Institutes of Health.

Journal Sentinel: Milwaukee project will seek to promote entrepreneurship

March 27, 2013

The Greater Milwaukee Committee is leading an initiative, along with Gov. Scott Walker and Milwaukee Mayor Tom Barrett, to develop an "entrepreneurship ecosystem" that will try to spur the growth of high-potential business ventures.

Journal Sentinel: Legislature should establish a fund for venture capital

March 27, 2013

The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel's editorial board urges the Legislature to establish a state-backed "fund of funds" to help power Wisconsin's entrepreneurs.

State Journal: InvivoSciences to collaborate with Florida institute

March 23, 2013

Madison biotech InvivoSciences has signed a collaborative agreement with Torrey Pines Institute for Molecular Studies, a nonprofit research institution in Port St. Lucie, Fla.

Business Journal: Cellular Dynamics awarded $16M grant from California institute

March 21, 2013

Madison stem cell technology developer Cellular Dynamics International has received a $16 million grant from the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, according to a Thursday announcement.

The Northwestern: Oshkosh scientist creates activated carbon from waste materials

March 21, 2013

If you’ve got $3 million to invest in a startup, Annamalai “Karthik” Karthikeyan would like to have a word with you about activated carbon.

The Business Journal: Wis. legislators could introduce venture capital bill next week

March 21, 2013

Wisconsin legislators are planning to introduce a venture capital bill separate from the state budget proposal, perhaps as soon as next week, according to advocates who have been meeting with legislators. Gov. Scott Walker’s biennial budget proposal, introduced last month, recommended at least $25 million over two years for venture capital to support early-stage firms. Walker likely left the language purposefully vague to encourage the state Legislature to hammer out the details and potentially devote a larger amount of taxpayer funds to venture capital investments, said Steve Lyons, president of the Wisconsin Growth Capital Coalition, a trade association officially formed in January that is lobbying for increased funding for early-stage companies.

State Journal: Device to help blind people ‘see’ gets OK to be sold in Europe

March 21, 2013

A Middleton company’s device to help blind people “see” — in the making for 15 years — has received approval to be sold in Europe. Wicab’s BrainPort V100 will be available in Germany, Italy, Sweden and the United Kingdom starting in June, around the same time the company submits an application with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration seeking approval to sell the device in the U.S., chief executive Robert Beckman said.  

SWIB, WARF launch venture fund to target early-stage companies

March 19, 2013

The State of Wisconsin Investment Board and Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation announced at the Wisconsin Innovation Network Madison chapter meeting today they are creating an early-stage venture capital fund focused on information technology. Called 4490 Ventures, a reference to the 44° N latitude and 90° W longitude lines that approximate the center of the state of Wisconsin, the $30 million fund will focus on early-stage companies primarily in Wisconsin.

Entrepreneur.com: Angel investment clubs offer a ray of hope -- and capital

March 18, 2013

If raising capital is on your list of New Year's resolutions, angel investment clubs may help you connect your company to startup and growth capital networks. Here are some key trends in angel clubs to pay attention to in 2013.

Latest 'WisBusiness: The Show' features WEDC marketing expert Kelly Lietz

March 15, 2013

On the latest episode of “WisBusiness.com: The Show,” Liz Schrum talks with Kelly Lietz, vice president of marketing for the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp., about the “In Wisconsin” marketing campaign; Tom Still explains job creation statistics in Wisconsin for 2012; and the WisBusiness.com Stock Report for mid-March 2013 covers mining and power plant wages.

 

The biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, is sponsored by Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., Madison Gas & Electric, UW-Milwaukee and BMO Harris Bank.

Want to quiz state Supreme Court candidates? Sign up now for March 22 debate

March 14, 2013
The two candidates for the Wisconsin Supreme Court will meet for their only scheduled joint debate on Friday, March 22 in Madison. Incumbent Justice Pat Roggensack and Marquette University law school professor Ed Fallone will meet for the debate that is being organized by the State Bar of Wisconsin and We the People/Wisconsin. Read on to learn how you can be a part of the studio audience.

Middle and high school students can enter Wisconsin YES! by March 18

March 13, 2013

The statewide Wisconsin YES! youth business plan contest will close to entries 5 p.m. Monday, March 18. All Wisconsin students in middle and high school have the opportunity to submit their ideas and receive feedback from professionals across the state. Students will learn how to write a business plan and develop entrepreneurial skills that will help them succeed in a global economy – all while competing for cash and other prizes.

Business Plan Contest ‘boot camp’ puts 70 young companies through startup paces

March 12, 2013

More than 70 entrepreneurs from communities across the state took part in the annual "boot camp" sponsored as a part of the 10th annual Wisconsin Governor's Business Plan Contest.

Journal Sentinel: Pharmaceutical research facility, with 50 jobs, proposed for Mequon

March 11, 2013

A start-up company formed by the founder of a Milwaukee-area drug ingredient maker is proposing to build a pharmaceutical research and development facility in Mequon, creating 50 jobs. Major Pharmaceuticals LLC wants to develop a two-story, 79,000-square-foot facility on a 7.7-acre parcel immediately south of Executive Drive and east of Commerce St., according to a filing with the city Plan Commission. That site is in Mequon Business Park, near the northeast corner of Donges Bay and Wauwatosa roads.

Latest 'WisBusiness: The Show' features Growth Capital Coalition’s Steve Lyons

March 4, 2013

On the latest episode of “WisBusiness: The Show,” Liz Schrum talks with Steve Lyons, president of the recently created Wisconsin Growth Capital Coalition; Tom Still explains the need for better cybersecurity in Wisconsin; and the WisBusiness.com Stock Report for early March covers mining and federal spending.

 

The biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, is sponsored by Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., Madison Gas & Electric, UW-Milwaukee and BMO Harris Bank.

Journal Sentinel: Swallow Solutions raises $1 million in venture funds

March 4, 2013

Swallow Solutions LLC, a Madison company that develops products for people with swallowing difficulties, has raised $1 million in a funding round led by Venture Management LLC. Other investors were NEW Capital Fund LP, Wisconsin Investment Partners and wealthy individual investors.

State Journal: Schools need boost, budget needs balance

March 3, 2013

Some of Walker’s priorities are strong, including a special fund to lure more investment capital for young and innovative companies. The fund is an important step for encouraging job and income growth for workers across Wisconsin.

Tom Still discusses Walker's early stage capital proposal in Post Crescent video

February 28, 2013

Tom Still, president of the Wisconsin Technology Council, talks about Gov. Scott Walker's early stage capital proposal in an episode of “Newsmakers” with Larry Gallup of the Appleton Post Crescent. Click here to view the video.

Fifty-one of 326 entries advance to next round in 2013 Gov's Business Plan Contest

February 28, 2013

Fifty-one entries from 28 communities have advanced to the semi-final round of the 10th annual Wisconsin Governor’s Business Plan Contest, contest producers announced Thursday. The contestants were selected from a field of 326 first-round entries by an independent panel of about 70 judges organized through the Wisconsin Technology Council, which is producing the contest in conjunction with its membership subsidiary, the Wisconsin Innovation Network, the Wisconsin Angel Network and other statewide affiliates.

Epic project manager Dan Blake named director of Wisconsin Angel Network

February 27, 2013

Dan Blake will join the Wisconsin Technology Council as the director of its Wisconsin Angel Network in mid-March, it was announced Wednesday. Blake succeeds Zach Brandon, who recently became president of the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce.

MedCity News: Quiet Wis. startup raises $3 million for drug-discovery platform

February 27, 2013

The discovery and development of biologics is complex, time-consuming and expensive because they’re derived from living organisms. A new drug discovery company based in Madison, Wis. called Invenra Inc. says it has a platform that could overcome some of the barriers that limit the discovery of new biologic drugs in areas like cancer, Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes. The company disclosed in a securities filing that it has raised $3 million.

Journal Sentinel: Angel fund geared to young firms starts with $5 million

February 26, 2013

A new angel fund - the first to focus on very young companies in southeastern Wisconsin - has launched with more than $5 million to invest. Organizers of the Wisconsin Super Angel Fund raised money from more than 40 investors, including three foundations and an insurance company, said John Torinus Jr., a general partner and chairman of Serigraph Inc. in West Bend. The fund is the first early-stage fund to form in southeastern Wisconsin, said Tom Still, president of the Wisconsin Technology Council. The other early-stage investors in the region are angel networks, where members receive information about companies and individually make decisions about whether to invest in them.

Journal Sentinel: State certifies four start-ups for investor tax credits

February 26, 2013

Four start-ups have been certified for early stage business investment tax credits by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. With the certification, the companies' financial backers will be eligible for a 25% tax credit on the amount they invest in the company. The companies certified for the tax credits are: Easenet Inc., United Community LLC, NexVex Inc. and SpanDeX Inc.

Journal Sentinel: EatStreet raises $2 million in angel investment funds

February 26, 2013

EatStreet, a Madison company with an online ordering system, has raised $2 million in a funding round led by Cornerstone Opportunity Partners LLC, a Northbrook, Ill., angel investment fund. Great Oaks Venture Capital, Independence Equity Management LLC and Gener8tor also invested in the company, the company said.

Journal Sentinel: Exact Sciences cancer test closer

February 21, 2013

Exact Sciences Corp., expects to submit its application for a noninvasive, DNA-based test for detecting colon cancer to the Food and Drug Administration in May, said Kevin T. Conroy, president and chief executive officer. The company is ramping up its manufacturing capabilities, "laying the foundation" for insurance coverage of the test, and working to develop the market for it, he added.

Spaulding Clinical Research Expands Clinical Pharmacology Facility

February 19, 2013

Spaulding Clinical Research, a change agent in the clinical research and medical device industries, announced that the company has completed a First-In-Human (FIH) study using their dedicated, 12-bed FIH High-Visibility-Unit (HVU). The study was conducted for a biotech Sponsor developing a non-opioid analgesic.

Listen to audio from Gov. Scott Walker's Feb. 18 news conference

February 19, 2013

Click here for the audio of Gov. Scott Walker's news conference held Monday, Feb. 18, at University Research Park in Madison. Walker announced that he is setting aside $25 million in his two-year budget bill to boost venture capital investment in the state.

Wisconsin State Journal: Walker budgeting $25 million for startups

February 18, 2013

Gov. Scott Walker will include $25 million in his proposed budget for an investment capital fund that he says would help create jobs by investing in startup and emerging companies in Wisconsin. Walker will hold two news conferences Monday, Feb. 18, to discuss the early stage capital initiative - Click here for the details.

Journal Sentinel: Scott Walker to seek $25 million for venture capital investment

February 18, 2013

Gov. Scott Walker is setting aside $25 million in his two-year budget bill to boost venture capital investment in the state, but isn't putting forward a plan for how such a program would work. Many in the venture and angel capital communities said they were pleased that Walker will include the venture capital program in his proposed budget, which will be released Wednesday. They expressed hope that the Legislature would boost the dollar commitment and details of the program.

"He's sending a strong signal to the Legislature he wants to work with them and early stage investors to make this happen," said Steve Lyons, president of the Wisconsin Growth Capital Coalition, a trade group that he said counts about 20 investment groups among its members.

GreenWhey Energy secures financing for $28.5 million project in Turtle Creek

February 18, 2013

GreenWhey Energy, Inc. announced Monday it has secured the construction and long-term financing required to construct and operate its innovative anaerobic digester facility in Turtle Lake, Wis.  When completed in the summer of 2013, the project is expected to be one of the largest facilities of its kind in the United States.

Latest 'WisBusiness: The Show' features GMCC president Zach Brandon

February 15, 2013

In the latest edition of "WisBusiness.com: The Show," Liz Schrum interviews Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce president Zach Brandon; Tom Still explains the role of patents and innovation in Wisconsin; and the WisBusiness.com Stock Report for mid-February covers help for startups and business scam artists.

 

The biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, is sponsored by Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., Madison Gas & Electric, UW-Milwaukee and BMO Harris Bank.

Business Journal: State of Wisconsin funds energize Milwaukee-area startups

February 15, 2013

Supporters said the movement to create a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in southeastern Wisconsin and around the state could receive a critical jolt from several initiatives Gov. Scott Walker wants to fund in the next biennial budget, to be introduced this month.

State Journal: Venture capital needed across state

February 13, 2013

State lawmakers shouldn't overlook the need for more private investment in budding businesses across the state. Entrepreneurs in most every legislative district have smart ideas and are looking to expand.

State Journal: Madison firm Novelos offering stock to fund drug research, development

February 13, 2013

Novelos Therapeutics, a Madison company developing a new type of drugs to diagnose and treat cancer, has priced a public offering of 11 million units at 50 cents a unit for gross proceeds of $5.5 million.

Journal Sentinel: Gateway Tech adds MIT-affiliated industrial lab

February 12, 2013

Gateway Technical College has expanded its manufacturing, engineering and technology center in Sturtevant that provides short-term, customized training for area employers. Tuesday, the college offered equipment demonstrations at the SC Johnson integrated Manufacturing and Engineering Technology Center, which has acquired a product prototyping laboratory affiliated with Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Wisconsin Radio Network: Walker wants to support start-ups

February 8, 2013

Governor Scott Walker is proposing ways to support start up businesses in the state. Walker’s office on Thursday announced an extensive list of economic development initiatives, aimed at improving the business climate and encouraging entrepreneurship and innovation.

State Journal: FluGen's flu vaccine shows up well in early tests, CEO says

February 8, 2013

FluGen, a Madison company that’s been working on an influenza vaccine, says it may have found the key to a universal vaccine that will guard against not only known strains of flu but also unanticipated versions of the virus.

Budget proposal to lift angel tax credit cap backed by Tech Council, Angel Network

February 7, 2013

Gov. Scott Walker’s proposal to lift the cap on Wisconsin’s Angel Investment Tax program, often referred to as the Act 255 tax credit program, drew support Thursday from the Wisconsin Technology Council and its Wisconsin Angel Network program.

Journal Sentinel: Force gauge may revolutionize physical therapy

February 6, 2013

Kayo Technology, Inc. says the kiio FLEX, which attaches to resistance bands, helps physical therapists precisely measure and chart the amount of pressure from a patient's exercise. Then, it transfers the data to computers, smartphones and electronic medical records. The Madison company, which was formed in 2011, raised $1.3 million in just six weeks at the end of 2012 following a presentation at the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium in November, said Joseph Hildebrandt, managing director at DaneVest Tech Fund, Middleton.

Record number of entrants tallied for 2013 Governor's Business Plan Contest

February 6, 2013

A record number of individuals from communitites across Wisconsin are competing in the 10th annual Wisconsin Governor's Business Plan Contest, organizers announced Wednesday. A total of 326 entries were received from 296 individuals representing 106 communities across the state, including entries from 22 communities that had not previously participated in the contest.

 

State Journal: Milwaukee outpaces Madison in patents per year, report shows

February 5, 2013

A Brookings Institution report lists Madison as No. 47 among 359 U.S. metropolitan areas in its number of patents per year, between 2007 and 2011. Milwaukee is No. 28. The figures are "not that surprising," said Tom Still, president of the Wisconsin Technology Council.

 

"One of the things that is evident about the Milwaukee area is that industry there tends to drive innovation" while the academic institutions participate at a lower level, he said. It's the opposite in Madison, where UW-Madison's Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation leads patent applications.

State Journal: Funding gives entrepreneurs in Whitewater a boost

February 5, 2013

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. will provide $150,000 to the Whitewater Community Development Authority for early stage capital to local entrepreneurs. The WEDC's Capital Catalyst program provides grants to regional organizations or communities to leverage matching funds to provide seed funding for startup and emerging companies.

Journal Sentinel: AT&T testing wireless technology in Waukesha

February 4, 2013

This technology is a big step toward filling coverage gaps in areas where a wireless signal is blocked by buildings, hills or bluffs, according to AT&T, which has been testing the transmitters on its Waukesha campus that has a customer call center and other services. It's something the wireless industry, overall, is pursuing more vigorously as networks become strained with traffic from phones, tablets and other devices.

WIN director receives recognition from two Madison publications

February 4, 2013

Molly Lahr, director of the Wisconsin Innovation Network with the Wisconsin Technology Council, received recognition from two Madison publications recently. Lahr was named one of Brava Magazine's "Women to Watch" in their January 2013 issue, as well as one of InBusiness Magazine's "40 Under 40". Click here to view the articles.

Journal Sentinel: Aging population, fewer business startups restrain job growth

February 4, 2013

Wisconsin's graying population and its lack of business startups are leaving the state without enough working-age adults and enough new firms to sustain the growth seen elsewhere in the country, according to a report by the Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance.

State Journal: Madison start-up Codiqa gets TechStars boost

February 2, 2013

 

Another young Madison tech business is getting a running start through the TechStar accelerator. Codiqa, a software tool that makes it easier for anyone to create a mobile app or mobile website, is part of the current class at TechStars Cloud in San Antonio, Texas.

 

Latest 'WisBusiness: The Show' features Whole Trees co-founder Amelia Baxter

February 1, 2013

In the latest edition of "WisBusiness: The Show," Tom Still explains why interim leader Reed Hall is the right person to stay in charge of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp.; Liz Schrum interviews Amelia Baxter, co-founder and president of Whole Trees; and the WisBusiness.com Stock Report for early February covers farm income and WPS Health Insurance.

The biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, is sponsored by Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., Madison Gas & Electric, UW-Milwaukee and BMO Harris Bank.

Journal Sentinel: Gov. Scott Walker names Reed Hall executive director of WEDC

January 29, 2013

Reed Hall, who's been serving as interim chief executive officer of Wisconsin Economic Development Corp., was named by Gov. Scott Walker as the agency's new CEO. Along with taking steps to correct the agency's problems, Hall said he'll be working with other state agencies as well as local and regional economic development groups to nurture Wisconsin's businesses, encourage new start-up firms and recruit other companies - particularly from Illinois.

State Journal: Design-a-thon geared toward women entrepreneurs

January 26, 2013

The spotlight will be on women who want to be entrepreneurs at the Design-a-thon, a weekend marathon business development workshop set for weekend of Feb. 9-10 in Madison.

Journal Sentinel: 12 groups respond to state feelers on venture capital program

January 25, 2013

Twelve groups have shown interest in a state-funded venture capital program, according to documents released by the agency Gov. Scott Walker directed to explore ideas for an angel and venture capital plan. The groups responded to a request for information by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. The list showed that big names in the venture capital world as well as homegrown firms were taking a serious look at the state and its proposal, said Tom Still, president of the Wisconsin Technology Council.

Waisman Center celebrates 40 years of advancing knowledge about developmental disabilities

January 24, 2013

Although its roots are deeper, going back to its earliest iteration as the Joseph P. Kennedy, Jr. Memorial Laboratories in the early 1960s, the Waisman Center this year celebrates 40 years of research, teaching and outreach in the interest of developmental disabilities. Exploring the range of disabilities, the Waisman Center community has helped gather new knowledge on the basic biology, developmental course, prevention, treatment and social context of a highly complex set of human conditions.

‘Wisconsin YES!’ student biz plan contest open for entries through March 18

January 24, 2013

Wisconsin Youth Entrepreneurs in Science, a statewide youth business plan contest modeled after the successful Governor’s Business Plan Contest, is open for online entries from Wisconsin middle- and high-school students through 5 p.m. March 18, 2013. Public, private and home-schooled students across Wisconsin are eligible to turn their science- and tech-related ideas into business plans and compete for cash and prizes for themselves and their schools. The contest begins with a 250-word summary and culminates in June with awards at the Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Conference.

Isthmus: David Krakauer calls for a new campus to lead a new world

January 24, 2013

Krakauer's appearance at the February 2012 luncheon of the Wisconsin Innovation Network at the Sheraton Hotel was close to a seismic event. His message, which I heard him give repeatedly with different emphases over the next 11 months, was a brash call for UW-Madison to reimagine its place in the world. Above all, it was to climb out of the silos of intellectual pursuit and embrace a more creative mash-up of disciplines — hard scientists working with poets working with social scientists working with entrepreneurs.

Gov. Walker speaks to Wisconsin Technology Council board of directors

January 23, 2013

Governor Scott Walker spoke to the Wisconsin Technology Council board of directors meeting on Tuesday at the American Family Insurance headquarters in Madison. See a round-up of coverage here.

Wisconsin Technology Council discussing a 2014 summit for start-ups

January 22, 2013

The Wisconsin Technology Council and the state's economic development agency would organize a summit where major companies could connect with high-growth start-ups under a plan being discussed by the tech council's board of directors Tuesday. The "Wisconsin Technology Summit," could be held in early 2014.

Journal Sentinel: Software developer Connecture acquires Los Angeles firm DRX

January 22, 2013

Connecture Inc., a fast-growing software company in Brookfield, said it has bought DRX, a company that sells software that enables consumers to compare and enroll in Medicare health and prescription drug plans.

Los Alamos National Lab demonstration validates the SHINE production process

January 21, 2013

SHINE Medical Technologies, Inc., based in Monona, Wis., announced today that Los Alamos National Laboratory successfully demonstrated the production and separation of molybdenum-99 from uranium sulfate solution using a separation flow sheet designed by Argonne National Laboratory. This work is supported by the Department of Energy’s National Nuclear Security Administration’s Global Threat Reduction Initiative. This demonstration represents validation of SHINE’s technology in that it utilized both a low-enriched uranium solution and the process flows that will be used in the commercial operations of SHINE.

Prize list grows for Gov’s Business Plan Contest; Jan. 31 is deadline to enter

January 21, 2013

Entrants in the 2013 Wisconsin Governor’s Business Plan Contest will once again compete for more than cash this year. Wisconsin companies have stepped up to offer a variety of service prizes, such as legal assistance, accounting, information technology consulting, marketing and more. For many contestants, these services will provide an important jumpstart in getting their businesses rolling.

State Journal: Cellular Dynamics to add GMP process

January 18, 2013

Cellular Dynamics International, of Madison, plans to create banks of human induced pluripotent stem cells from five donors using good manufacturing practices, or GMP. The super-clean GMP process enables cells to be used in clinical trials, so the development is a potential milestone in leading to human therapies.

State Journal: Venture capital up in Wisconsin, bucking national trend

January 18, 2013

Funding for business startups declined nationally in 2012 but in Wisconsin, venture capital investments rose significantly when compared to 2011, according to a study released last week. One of the largest deals in the past year was for Cellular Dynamics International in Madison which raised $21 million and accounted for almost half of the $45 million raised in the fourth quarter.

Latest 'WisBusiness: The Show' features Dave Grandin with Kayo Technology

January 18, 2013

In the latest edition of "WisBusiness: The Show," Liz Schrum interviews Dave Grandin, CEO of Kayo Technologies; Tom Still discusses the benefits of creating an early stage capital program in Wisconsin; and the Wisbusiness.com Stock Report covers battery technology and Wausau Paper.

Click here to view the biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, as well as archives of past shows. The show is sponsored by Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., Madison Gas & Electric, UW-Milwaukee and BMO Harris Bank.

Journal Sentinel: State certifies five start-ups for investment tax credits

January 17, 2013

Five start-ups have been certified for early stage business investment tax credits by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. With the certification, the companies' financial backers will be eligible for a 25% tax credit on the amount they invest in the company.

Walker touts investment capital in his annual State of the State address

January 16, 2013

Gov. Scott Walker talked about the need for more early stage capital in Wisconsin during his Jan. 15 State of the State address in the Capitol. Here is what he said:

"During the coming year, I look forward to working with lawmakers in both parties on ways to improve the amount of investment capital available to help startups and other small businesses grow new jobs in our state."

Tom Still, president of the Wisconsin Technology Council, welcomed the governor's remarks.

"We're appreciative of Gov. Scott Walker’s State of the State speech mention of the
need for an investment capital program in Wisconsin. If state policymakers want
to create more companies and jobs, this idea is a sound investment," Still said.

A proposal on the table through the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. would
establish a master fund seeded with state dollars to attract matching private dollars from angel investors and venture capitalists, both in Wisconsin and beyond. 

InBusiness: What do angels want?

January 15, 2013

The Wisconsin Angel Network is the best resource to identify angel networks. From there, it’s a matter of clearly explaining your technology, what problem it solves, what you plan to do with the money, and how it’s going to get you to the next phase of product and business development. 

State Journal: Entrepreneurship group to move HQ back to Wisconsin

January 15, 2013

A national entrepreneurial education organization is moving its headquarters back to the state. The U.S. Association for Small Business and Entrepreneurship announced that in the spring it will move its headquarters to UW-Whitewater from Belmont University in Nashville, Tenn.

Journal Sentinel: Montage Talent raises $4 million in venture funding

January 14, 2013

Montage Talent Inc., a provider of video interviewing technology, announced it has raised $4 million in a funding round led by Baird Venture Partners. This brings to nearly $10 million the amount of outside money raised by the 5-year-old Delafield-based company.

Journal Sentinel: Morgridge Institute appoints UW professor as CEO

January 14, 2013

Brad Schwartz, an expert in blood coagulation and bleeding disorders who recently returned to the faculty at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, was named as chief executive officer of the Morgridge Institute for Research.

Capital Times: Lisa Johnson of WEDC says jobs will come from startups, entrepreneurs

January 13, 2013

Johnson sat down recently with The Capital Times to talk about why investing in entrepreneurs, rather than convincing companies to relocate to Wisconsin, is key to job growth.

Journal Times: WEDC to take region-by-region approach

January 12, 2013

Under new leadership, the state’s economic development agency is taking a targeted, region-by-region approach with the intent of bolstering job growth in Wisconsin.

Journal Sentinel: Madison online art site raises $510,000 in angel investments

January 11, 2013

The Art Commission has secured a $510,000 investment round from individual angel investors in Wisconsin and the Chicago area. The Madison-based company, co-founded by Toni Sikes, is a web-based portal to connect architects and designers with artists who create commission artwork.

Journal Sentinel: Information sessions set on business plan contest

January 10, 2013

Organizers will hold three information sessions this month for entrepreneurs interested in entering the Wisconsin Governor's Business Plan Contest.

Isthmus: UW-Madison gets serious about supporting student software developers

January 10, 2013

The good news is that the UW-Madison campus has stepped up its game. The business school's Weinert Center for Entrepreneurship is taking a special interest in helping what executive director Jon Eckhardt calls "backpack entrepreneurs." The Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, which encourages cross-disciplinary collaboration, offers free business consulting and a workspace for the computer science entrepreneur students. And the computer science department is trying to remedy what they see as a longstanding gap in department programming.

State Journal: Informal Q&A set on Governor's Business Plan Contest

January 9, 2013

Entrepreneurs can find out what it takes to enter the Wisconsin Governor's Business Plan Contest — and what benefits it can provide — at an informal presentation on Jan. 16 at Brocach Irish Pub & Restaurant, 7 W. Main St.

Journal Sentinel: UWM's Innovation Campus lands major office project, 350 jobs

January 9, 2013

ABB Inc. plans to develop its new Milwaukee-area headquarters at University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's Innovation Campus development in Wauwatosa, bringing 350 jobs to that location. The three-story, 95,000-square-foot building will be located on three acres in the western portion of the campus and will be the first private development, according to the UWM Real Estate Foundation.

BizTimes: Wisconsin ranks 42nd in job creation

January 9, 2013

Wisconsin ranks 42nd out of the 50 states in private-sector job creation, according to the latest available government jobs data.

Watch Lt. Gov. Kleefisch video on why entrepreneurs should enter Biz Plan Contest

January 7, 2013

Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch encourages Wisconsin entrepreneurs to enter the 10th annual Wisconsin Governor's Business Plan Contest in a two-minute video describing the contest and its results over time.

Madison College Challenge begins with spring semester

January 7, 2013

The Madison College Challenge is designed to provide enhanced educational and experiential learning opportunities for Madison College students as well as provide a source of startup funding to the winners of the business plan competition.  Hosted by the School of Business and Applied Arts, the Madison College Challenge is open to all current students enrolled in at least one credit or non-credit course during the spring semester of each year and have successfully completed the Madison College entrepreneurship immersion course “From Innovation to Implementation.” 

Application deadline to present at 2013 InvestMidwest is Jan. 11

January 7, 2013

The 2013 InvestMidwest is scheduled for April 3-4, 2013 in Kansas City, Mo. InvestMidwest provides an opportunity for high growth companies from throughout the Midwest to present to an audience of over three hundred attendees, including 60 -70 venture capital investors.  

Evers’ budget request includes $1 million in STEM grants

January 7, 2013

Based on recommendations from the Wisconsin Technology Council and other organizations, State Superintendent Tony Evers proposed $1 million in STEM grants for the 2015 fiscal year to help school districts enhance STEM course offerings and opportunities.

Latest 'WisBusiness.com: The Show' features interview with Chris McCannell

January 4, 2013

In the newest episode of “WisBusiness: The Show,” Liz Schrum talks to Chris McCannell, a representative of the Angel Capital Association in Washington, D.C.; Tom Still points out some trends to watch in 2013; and the WisBusiness.com Stock Report for early January looks at the fiscal cliff talks.

 

Click here to view the biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, as well as our archives of past shows. The show is sponsored by Madison Gas & Electric, Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., BMO Harris and the UW-Milwaukee.

State Journal: CDI to partner with AstraZeneca

January 4, 2013

Cellular Dynamics International says it has signed a Center of Excellence agreement with AstraZeneca to speed the pace of drug discovery by using CDI’s stem cell lines and tissue cells. It is the third Center of Excellence agreement with a major, global pharmaceutical company for CDI, the Madison company founded by UW-Madison stem cell pioneer James Thomson.

Journal Sentinel: Web-based study platform attracts investors

January 4, 2013

StudyBlue Inc., a Madison educational technology company, has raised $9 million in a funding round led by Great Oaks Venture Capital, a New York-based firm. The round brings to $14.7 million the amount of money the company has raised from outside investors, said Becky Splitt, chief executive officer.

Journal Sentinel: Jobs agency gave $56.2 million in grants and loans, report says

January 4, 2013

The state's flagship jobs agency said in its yearly report Friday that it helped hundreds of businesses and opened several new international offices in its first full year. The Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. said in its report that the money it invested affected a total of 218 businesses and 23,759 jobs in the state last fiscal year. WEDC made a total of $56.2 million available to businesses through 170 grants and loans, the report found.

Tips to win 2013 Govs Biz Plan Contest is Jan 10 WIN-Milwaukee topic

January 3, 2013

The 10th annual Wisconsin Governor’s Business Contest is now accepting entries online for phase one. Hear from a panel of past contestants and judges about how to navigate and get the most out of the contest at the Thursday, Jan. 10 meeting of the WIN-Milwaukee chapter.

State Journal: PharmaSeek moves and grows

December 29, 2012

PharmaSeek will move in early January across the hall from its current offices, at 8476 Greenway Blvd., Middleton, more than doubling its space. Founded in 1995, PharmaSeek helps pharmaceutical companies set up clinical trials of their potential drugs, recruits patients, and reports results.

Latest 'WisBusiness: The Show' features Speechtails CEO Patrick Walters

December 27, 2012

In this episode, Liz Schrum talks to Speechtails CEO Patrick Walters, who talks about his company's role in providing pathways to speech therapy for children. Also, Tom Still's commentary touches on the 2013 prospects for early stage capital plan for Wisconsin and the WisBusiness.com Stock Report covers state banks and farmland tax credits. 

Click here to view the biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, as well as our archives of past shows. The show is sponsored by Madison Gas & Electric, Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., BMO Harris and the UW-Milwaukee.

State Journal: UW-led project called second biggest scientific breakthrough in 2012

December 26, 2012

Work by UW-Madison physics professor Karsten Heeger and his team has been deemed the second biggest breakthrough of 2012 by Science Magazine, beaten out by the detection of the Higgs boson, an elusive sub-atomic particle that is considered key in understanding the universe.

State Journal: Exact Sciences gets more attention from Wall Street

December 21, 2012

Two more Wall Street firms are keeping an eye on Exact Sciences Corp., the Madison company working on a stool-based, non-invasive test for colorectal cancer.

Journal Sentinel: SBA seeking early-stage fund managers

December 19, 2012

The U.S. Small Business Administration is taking applications from experienced early-stage fund managers who could receive up to $50 million each to invest in high growth potential startups.

BizTimes: WIN discusses early stage capital

December 18, 2012

Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation COO Ryan Murray encouraged local entrepreneurs to support the early stage capital program being proposed in the state legislature at a meeting of the Wisconsin Innovation Network-Milwaukee last week.

State Journal: UW-Madison engineering student wins national inventors prize

December 17, 2012

An idea for a printable prosthetic hand, first dreamed up when Eric Ronning was bored during an entry-level freshman engineering course, has now been recognized with a national inventors prize for the UW-Madison junior, who's also parlayed it into a start-up company.

Wis. Radio Network: Governor weighs options on venture capital plan

December 17, 2012

With a venture capital bill failing last legislative session, Governor Scott Walker has his sights set on another go around. With the idea to fund start-up companies, the governor indicated last week a number of details still need to be worked out, while reinforcing the need for such a resource.

State Journal: AquaMost makes a move

December 15, 2012

AquaMost, a Madison company with a new system for purifying water, is moving into bigger quarters. The company will graduate from its 5,300 square feet at the Madison Enterprise Center business incubator, 100 S. Baldwin St., to take over 8,000 square feet of space at 103 E. Badger Road on Jan. 1.

State Journal: Two Madison biotechs win kudos from national publication

December 14, 2012

Two Madison area biotechs have their products singled out for recognition in The Scientist magazine's Top 10 Innovations 2012. They are Cellular Dynamics International's MyCell Services and NanoLuc Luciferase technology by Promega Corp., Fitchburg. 

Journal Sentinel: South Pacific island eco-resort to deploy ZBB battery system

December 11, 2012

ZBB Energy Corp. will supply 40 EnerStore zinc bromide flow batteries to help an island green resort in the Pacific Ocean rely on renewable power sources. The project is the largest island microgrid power system to date for the Menomonee Falls company that is supplying the U.S. military with battery systems. Other ZBB systems have been installed at Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago and on an island in Korea as part of that country’s smart grid pilot project.

Seasonal lyrics from Madison Kiwanis Club for angel investors

December 11, 2012

When Tech Council President Tom Still spoke Dec. 10 at the Madison Kiwanis Club on the state of angel investing in Wisconsin, he was greeted with a song adapted to the tune of "Angels We Have Heard on High." The seasonally appropriate lyrics:

"Angels we have in our midst
Off'ring money to invest.
En-tre-pre-neurs need assist
So they can become the best.
Eu--phoria; one more bus'ness success!
Eu--phoria; one more bus'ness success! 

Thanks to Madison Kiwanis member (and song leader) Jeanne Engle for the adaptation.

Journal Sentinel: Lawmakers urge conflict of interest protections in venture capital plan

December 11, 2012

A venture capital proposal seeking tens of millions in state taxpayer dollars should rule out political conflicts of interest such as the potential conflict raised in a similar, but smaller state program, a group of lawmakers on both sides of the proposal said.

Latest 'WisBusiness.com: The Show' features Jay Singer of MasterCard

December 11, 2012

In the newest episode of "WisBusiness: The Show," Liz Schrum talks to Jay Singer of MasterCard; Tom Still explains how the oil and gas boom will affect Wisconsin industries; and the WisBusiness.com Stock Report covers exports and iron ore processing. 

Click here to view the biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, as well as our archives of past shows. The show is sponsored by Madison Gas & Electric, Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., BMO Harris and the UW-Milwaukee.

InBusiness: Biotech Buildup - Taking the mystery out of biotech

December 10, 2012

In our annual feature on Madison’s biotechnology sector, IB’s intent is not to blind you with science, but present a plain-English look at how local companies are developing both science and industry, and hopefully take some of the mystery out of what biotech companies do. 

BizTimes: Legislature to make another run at venture capital bill

December 10, 2012

With a state-funded venture capital bill headed into its second round in the state legislature, industry experts agree: Wisconsin needs more investment capital. But they disagree on who should provide the early stage funding to Wisconsin's entrepreneurs.

Bloomberg TV: A New Way of Cleaning Up Dirty Fracking Water

December 10, 2012

Planet Forward features AquaMost and a new way of cleaning up dirty fracking water.

The 2013 Wisconsin Governor's Business Plan Contest open for entries

December 6, 2012

The 10th annual Wisconsin Governor’s Business Plan Contest is accepting entries online for the 2013 competition through Jan. 31, 2013. 

Isthmus: The Madison-Milwaukee divide

December 6, 2012

What is it about Milwaukee and Madison — that potent mix of mutual disdain, disregard and ignorance that characterizes their odd relationship? If the cities would only cooperate, a "commerce corridor" could spark an economic renaissance.

Business Journal: UW-Madison fourth in research spending

December 3, 2012

The University of Wisconsin-Madison remains near the top of the class in spending for research, but has slipped one place in rankings to No. 4. UW-Madison, with more than $1.1 billion in research expenditures for fiscal 2011, ranked behind Johns Hopkins University, the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor and the University of Washington at Seattle, according to a press release.

State Journal: You can't 'Challenge' if you don't register

December 3, 2012

Madison College is sponsoring a competition next spring for student entrepreneurs. The Madison College Challenge is hosted by the business and applied arts school and is open to all current students enrolled in at least one spring semester class. Students also must have completed an eight-week entrepreneurship immersion course at the college that's offered in the spring. It's open to students from any major or concentration. The contest will award a $5,000 cash prize.

GazetteXtra.com: Incubator set to help small businesses

December 2, 2012

Biotech company Virent, now thriving in a 72,000-square-foot facility, got its start in a 600-square-foot cubicle at a Madison business incubator. NeuWave Medical started with office space in the same Madison incubator with a handful of engineers. It, too, has moved out and employs about 35. Mike Mathews, president of Economic Growth Advisors of Middleton and Janesville’s consultant for its new incubator, spoke about the Madison success stories when asked about the future of the Janesville Innovation Center , which is set to open in January.

State Journal: CPAC, TomoTherapy spinoff, marks big milestone

November 30, 2012

Compact Particle Acceleration Corp. (CPAC), a company created as an offshoot of Madison-based TomoTherapy, has clinched its first potential client. CPAC said it has received a letter of intent for one of the first proton therapy systems from Southwest Oncology Centers, with locations in Arizona, Minnesota and Mexico.

Wisconsin Radio Network: Chinese investors like what they see in Wisconsin

November 27, 2012

Wisconsin has a number of assets attractive to global investment says the head of an advising group to the legislature and governor. As evidence, Tom Still of the Wisconsin Technology Council cites the Chinese investment firm PiYi that visited Wisconsin and other states in September.

Latest 'WisBusiness.com: The Show' features Internet Hall of Famer Landweber

November 26, 2012

The newest episode of “WisBusiness: The Show,” was filmed on site from the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium at Madison’s Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center. In this episode, Liz Schrum interviews Larry Landweber, charter member of the Internet Society’s international Hall of Fame; Tom Still gives his predictions for a potential early stage funding bill; and the WisBusiness.com Stock Report features health care technology and Oshkosh Corp.

Click here to view the biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, as well as our archives of past shows. The show is sponsored by Madison Gas & Electric, Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., BMO Harris and the UW-Milwaukee.

Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin looks to focus investment capital

November 24, 2012

John Byrnes, managing director of Mason Wells and a former member of the Wisconsin Technology Council, talked about the state’s efforts to spark more venture capital investment during an “Executive Q&A” interview with Kathleen Gallagher of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Click here to read the Nov. 24 story.

State Journal: Wis. startup accelerator prepares for its first Madison class

November 23, 2012

More than 100 startups applied by the Nov. 21 deadline to become part of the winter class of gener8tor, an accelerator program for young tech businesses, in Madison and Milwaukee. Five to 10 companies will be chosen for the class, which will be held at the program’s Madison office, 1 E. Main St., and will run from Jan. 4 through March 28, co-founder Joe Kirgues said.

Journal Sentinel: State approves loans, investor tax credits for 17 new companies

November 21, 2012

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. said Wednesday it has approved $1.75 million of technology development loans for eight start-ups and tax credits for investors in nine other companies.

Wisconsin Radio Network: Optimism for venture capital plan

November 20, 2012

A fund to help start-up companies is likely on the agenda this state legislative session after a similar bill failed last time around. Tom Still, president of the Wisconsin Technology Council, is optimistic such a proposal will pass this.

Analytical tool is focus of spinoff firm

November 20, 2012

A new company making a high-speed, accurate and user-friendly instrument that reveals the molecular structure of proteins, drugs, and other important materials is the latest spinoff from the University of Wisconsin-Madison chemistry department. 

Veteran angel investor Dick Leazer first to join Wisconsin Investor Hall of Fame

November 20, 2012

Richard “Dick” Leazer, one of the first angel investors in Wisconsin and the recently retired co-manager of Wisconsin Investment Partners, has been named to the newly created Wisconsin Investor Hall of Fame.

Journal Sentinel: Investors commit $2.5 million to seven start-ups

November 19, 2012

Private investors have committed more than $2.5 million to the seven companies that represent the first graduating class from gener8tor, a group that works to accelerate start-ups.

Wisconsin State Journal: Judy Newman's column on the Elevator Pitch Olympics

November 16, 2012

Read Judy Newman's "Tech and Biotech" column on the three top presenters in the 2012 Elevator Pitch Olympics.

It's a wrap! Read, view coverage of 2012 Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium here

November 16, 2012

The 2012 Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium attracted 488 attendees over two days. Thanks to all who participated! Read and watch all the coverage of the conference here. This includes interviews with conference speakers, stories on the prospects for a state-leveraged early stage investment program, and columns and features on presenting companies.

Tech Council’s Zach Brandon to lead Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce

November 15, 2012

Zach Brandon, who has headed the Wisconsin Technology Council’s Wisconsin Angel Network since early 2011, will become president of the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce effective Nov. 26.

Business Journal: 50 early-stage Wisconsin firms awarded $11M in tax credits in 2011

November 15, 2012

A state program approved $11.17 million in tax credits last year for 50 early-stage companies that leveraged more than $44 million in outside investment, according to a new report by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp.

Tax credit program leverages $44 million investment in 50 early-stage companies in 2011

November 15, 2012

Wisconsin’s Qualified New Business Venture (QNBV) program helped 50 early-stage companies leverage more than $44 million in outside investment in 2011, according to a report released by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC). The program, also known as the Act 255 program, has helped create more than 1,100 jobs in the last six years, stimulating Wisconsin’s economy.

Venture Best Blog: Term sheet mockup during Early Stage Symposium

November 15, 2012

Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of participating on a panel on term sheet negotiations at this year’s edition of the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium in Madison Wisconsin; an annual event that brings together several hundred entrepreneurs, investors and what are gently referred to as service providers interested in growing the high impact business community in Wisconsin and the upper Midwest.

WTN News: WEN Network awarded 2012 Federal and State Technology grant

November 15, 2012

The Wisconsin Entrepreneurs' Network has recently been awarded a 2012 Federal and State Technology (FAST) grant from the Small Business Administration (SBA) to continue its work as the premiere provider of SBIR services in Wisconsin. Building on a successful history of FAST grant awards leading to improved client successes in acquiring federal funding, WEN is committed to assist small, Wisconsin, technology-based firms in the successful commercialization of cutting edge innovation.

WisBusiness.com: State senators say outlook bright for 'investment capital' bill

November 14, 2012

The chances are good for approval of proposed legislation that would raise roughly $250 million to fund nascent companies, a pair of prominent state senators said Tuesday as part of a Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium (http://www.wisearlystage.com/) forum held at Monona Terrace. 

State Journal: Senators see good chances for bill to boost early-stage companies

November 14, 2012

State senators from both sides of the aisle told an audience of entrepreneurs and investors they're optimistic about the chances for passing a bill next year that will pump state and private money into young Wisconsin companies to help create jobs. Darling and state Sen. Tim Cullen, D-Janesville, were on a panel at the Early Stage Symposium (http://www.wisearlystage.com/) at Monona Terrace.

Journal Sentinel: Lawmakers say venture capital plan could return in 2013

November 13, 2012

A hard-to-pass proposal to use tax dollars to boost private investment in Wisconsin start-up companies could find its way into the next state budget bill, giving it a pathway through the legislative traps that ensnared it last session, a key state senator said Tuesday.

Wisconsin State Journal: Calling all promising young businesses

November 12, 2012

Investment money — bringing more to Wisconsin and nabbing a piece of it — will be a major theme at the 2012 Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium (http://www.wisearlystage.com/) at Monona Terrace next week.

Latest 'WisBusiness: The Show' features Doug Nelson of BMO Harris

November 9, 2012

In the latest edition of WisBusiness.com: The Show, Tom Still talks about the diversity of startup companies in Wisconsin; the WisBusiness.com Stock Report covers a major cybersecurity grant and Harley-Davidson; and Liz Schrum talks to Doug Nelson, regional president of BMO Harris Bank, about the economic outlook and more.

 Click here to view the biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, as well as our archives of past shows. The show is sponsored by Madison Gas & Electric, Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., BMO Harris and the UW-Milwaukee.

Count 'em down! Here are 10 reasons to attend Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium in Madison

November 9, 2012

 

Still on the fence about coming to the annual Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium in Madison? Here are 10 reasons to join nearly 400 registrants Tuesday and Wednesday for one of the Midwest’s premier events for entrepreneurs.

Biz Journal: Skills gap advocates make case for boosting Wisconsin job training funds

November 9, 2012

If Wisconsin wants to make a dent in the skills gap, the state will have to make some serious investments in job training, advocates discussed at a luncheon in Brookfield Thursday.

Wisconsin State Journal: Four-pronged strategy needed for state economic growth

November 8, 2012

Wisconsin needs a four-pronged strategy for building its “high-growth economy,” according to a report released Wednesday by the Wisconsin Technology Council.

BizTimes.com: Startup Weekend looking for software developers, designers

November 8, 2012

Startup Weekend, an entrepreneurial-based event running 54 hours from Friday, Nov. 9, through Sunday, Nov. 11, is still recruiting software developers and graphic designers to assist in creating 15 to 20 Milwaukee-area software companies.

Wisconsin State Journal: AT&T to expand wireless, wired broadband reach

November 8, 2012

Many homes in AT&T Inc.'s local-phone service areas will see the company becoming more competitive with cable for broadband service under a new $14 billion investment plan the company revealed Wednesday. But in more outlying areas, the company will start shifting customers from regular phone lines to wireless service.

Tech Council reports recommends way to strengthen tech-based economy

November 7, 2012

Passing an early stage capital bill to spur company growth, building a better-trained workforce, improving broadband and high-speed computing networks, and focusing on sectors most likely to produce jobs are major themes of the Wisconsin Technology Council’s 2012-2013 “white papers” report.

Meeting on startup funding features UW–Madison Internet Hall of Famer

November 6, 2012

Larry Landweber, a University of Wisconsin-Madison computer science professor who was one of 31 inaugural members of the Internet Society's global hall of fame, will speak Nov. 13 at the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium in Madison.

For more information and to register for the conference, visit http://www.wisearlystage.com/.

Wisconsin company’s new engine is changing the aviation industry

November 5, 2012

With all the noise about alternative energy technology, a Wisconsin company is going directly to the source of energy efficiency— the engine. DeltaHawk Engines Inc., has developed a family of patented diesel engines with innovative technologies that could send the aviation industry to new heights.

DeltaHawk Engines will present to potential investors at the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium Nov. 13-14 at the Monona Terrace. For more information and to register for the conference, visit http://www.wisearlystage.com/.

Researchers make unexpected discovery for Cystic Fibrosis treatment

November 5, 2012

Researchers at C5.6 Technologies have recently come across a possible treatment for Cystic Fibrosis sufferers across the globe, potentially changing the way patients live with the chronic and debilitating disease.

C5.6 Technologies will present to potential investors at the Wisconsin Early State Symposium Nov. 13-14 at the Monona Terrace. For more information and to register for the conference, go to http://www.wisearlystage.com/.

Madison-based Doorjam looks to radically change the way homes are bought and sold

November 5, 2012

There are ways to screen every kind of product or service before you buy it. Companies offer ratings, reviews, test periods and other ways to make sure results live up to expectations. However, the options dry up when the purchase in question is a house. That’s ironic, since it is the largest purchase the average person will make in his or her lifetime. Doorjam, a Madison-based company, is looking to change that with its GoTour service.

Doorjam will present to potential investors at the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium Nov. 13-14 at the Monona Terrace. For more information and to register for the conference, visit http://www.wisearlystage.com/.

Wisconsin startup can be a game changer at business trade shows

November 5, 2012

Business trade shows are excellent opportunities to get products out and connect with other companies, consumers and customers. But they can be static, even boring, events. Interactive technology is a way to get trade-show vendors and customers alike engaged. Co-founders Bill Finn and Tim Grove first imagined an all-event mobile application while at a trade show where traffic was not meeting expectations. Together, they created BoothTag, a full trade show and event app that delivers traffic and drives sales.

BoothTag will present to potential investors at the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium Nov. 13-14 at the Monona Terrace. For more information and to register for the conference, visit http://www.wisearlystage.com/.

New website provides one-stop-shop for golf enthusiasts

November 5, 2012

Anyone who has golfed knows it can be one of the most frustrating sports to play. What really frustrated Brian Wroblewski was the fact it was just as hard to manage the process of getting to the golf course as it was playing the game. The solution to this frustration was Golf Pipeline, a website designed to combine all the features necessary to manage your golf game.

Golf Pipeline will present to potential investors at the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium Nov. 13-14 at the Monona Terrace. For more information and to register for the conference, visit http://www.wisearlystage.com/.

Piiku strives to target advertising to match viewers’ profiles

November 5, 2012

Piiku, a year-old premium advertising channel, is aiming to break the barrier between advertisers and their consumers. With its patent-pending Exchange Value Engine and a blue-ribbon board of directors, advisory board and management team, Piiku is building an advertising channel that delivers its members and advertisers an authentic viewing engagement of commercials from the most relevant companies.

Piiku will present to potential investors at the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium Nov. 13-14 at the Monona Terrace. For more information and to register for the the conference, visit http://www.wisearlystage.com/.

Web-based speech learning system plans to grow business, reach more children

November 5, 2012

SpeechTails, an online speech and language learning system, is already telling a successful story just two years after it was founded. Launched by Amy Reno, a licensed speech-language pathologist, and her husband, Todd Reno, SpeechTails provides parents and professionals with a low-cost tool to assess and monitor speech development issues in children under the age of 10.

SpeechTails will present to potential investors at the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium Nov. 13-14 at the Monona Terrace. For more information and to register for the conference, visit http://www.wisearlystage.com/.

Human swallowing difficulties target of Madison-based tech company

November 5, 2012

Most people take for granted the ability to swallow, a physical function seemingly as basic as breathing. For an estimated 10 million Americans, however, the ability to swallow can be impaired to the point of requiring medical attention. Madison-based Swallow Solutions LLC plans to revolutionize this medical field by enhancing the quality of life for patients suffering from swallowing disorders, generally known as dysphagia.

Swallow Solutions LLC will present to potential investors at the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium Nov. 13-14 at the Monona Terrace. For more information and to register for the conference, visit http://www.wisearlystage.com/.

Innovative technology provides everlasting wedding memories

November 5, 2012

Girls dream of their wedding day as far back as they can remember. They let nothing stand in their way of their pristine, gorgeous and perfect day. Dreaming of this one day for years, if not decades, calls for everlasting memories. What better memories than capturing the entire wedding story from engagement through honeymoon? WeDo aims to capture these memories by creating a mobile, group photo-sharing platform that brings all the visual wedding ideas and memories into a collaborative mobile experience.

WeDo will present to potential investors at the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium Nov. 13-14 at the Monona Terrace. For more information and to register for the conference, visit http://www.wisearlystage.com/.

Extend Manufacturing introduces adaptable excavator

November 5, 2012

Mitch Larson grabs a shovel and begins to dig. The hot, summer sun beats down mercilessly as he struggles to dig a drainage trench in his cornfield near Waupaca. Then, in the distance, he spots his savior rolling toward him – the MX Towable Mini Excavator. With the TMX, the trench is effortlessly dug, saving Larson hours of back-breaking work. That scenario explains how Chris Osswald, founder of Extend Manufacturing, hopes to revolutionize home and commercial excavating with his state of the art, towable excavator.

Extend Manufacturing will present to potential investors at the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium Nov. 13-14 at the Monona Terrace. For more information and to register for the conference, visit http://www.wisearlystage.com/.

Wall Street Journal: When Madison met Handan – A tale of two cities

November 5, 2012

According to Rhodium Group, which tracks Chinese investment into the U.S., over the last 13 years only two Wisconsin firms have received direct investment from China. Given that Wisconsin has been hardly a beacon for Chinese investment, it raises the question: How did a group of investors from a fourth-tier Chinese city — many of whom had never traveled to the U.S. before, and some of whom hadn’t even been overseas — end up on a shopping trip to Madison?

Presenting companies named for Nov. 13-14 Early Stage Symposium

November 5, 2012

From fishing to biotech, and from mobile applications to new motors and engines, more than 40 early stage companies will present to potential investors at the 2012 Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium, Nov. 13-14 in Madison.

The conference will be held at Madison’s Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center. Visit http://www.wisearlystage.com/ to register and learn more.

UW-Madison students profile presenting companies for Early Stage Symposium

November 5, 2012

A number of companies that will present during the Nov. 13-14 Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium have been profiled by students in the UW-Madison Department of Life Sciences Communication. Read their stories in the Wisconsin Technology Council's Newsroom here.

For more information and to register for the conference, visit http://www.wisearlystage.com/.

Madison company looks to change the way people shop; focuses on eyewear and accessories

November 5, 2012

Founded by Natasha Vora and her silent partner in January 2012, Iristocracy aims to take eyewear somewhere it has never been. To make eyeglasses as accessible as other fashion accessories, the company has built a website that allows people to try on glasses using 3D technology. 

Iristocracy will present to potential investors at the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium Nov. 13-14 at the Monona Terrace. For more information and to register for the conference, visit http://www.wisearlystage.com/.

Wisconsin State Journal: Exact Sciences plans 2nd clinical trial of colon cancer test

November 2, 2012

Exact Sciences Corp., Madison, already conducting a huge clinical trial on its Cologuard stool-based colorectal cancer test, plans to start a second clinical trial for the use of Cologuard in early 2013. The new project will focus on patients with inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis.

WTN News: National cybersecurity effort launched to strengthen software infrastructure

November 2, 2012

Scientists at the Morgridge Institute for Research, the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Indiana University, and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign have received a $23.6 million grant as part of a Broad Agency Announcement (BAA 11-02) by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate to address threats arising from the development process of software used in technology ranging from the national power grid to medical devices.

WEDC promoting November as Entrepreneur Month; Early Stage event among highlights

November 2, 2012

The Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. is promoting November as Entrepreneur Month to celebrate the positive business climate and entpreneurial spirit in Wisconsin. See a full list of events and updates here.

Orion Energy exec to speak Nov. 14 at Cleantech Network event in Madison

November 1, 2012
Kevin Crawford, senior vice president for external affairs at Orion Energy Corp., will speak on the company’s energy-saving solutions for businesses at the Nov. 14 Wisconsin Cleantech Forum, to be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. The forum will be held from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the J. Galt Pub at Wood Communications Group, 4801 South Biltmore Lane on Madison’s far East Side.

Cost is $10 per person in advance and $20 at the door, including refreshments. Register by Nov. 13 through the Tech Council website.

Oak Ridge National Laboratory powers up Titan, supercomputer with Wisconsin roots

November 1, 2012
A new 20-petaflop supercomputer dubbed Titan is powering up at the Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Tennessee and is poised to tackle a host of scientific applications. Titan features the latest technology from Cray Inc., which has production facilities in Chippewa Falls. Read more here from BIO-IT World.

Wisconsin State Journal: Professor Larry Landweber lauded as Internet pioneer

November 1, 2012

When Larry Landweber was growing up in Brooklyn, N.Y., in the 1950s, he competed on his high school math team. But he never imagined he would become a leader in a technology that has dramatically changed the world.

Investors among panelists, 'pitch' judges at Early Stage event

October 31, 2012

Investors from Wisconsin, the Midwest and beyond will share their expertise with entrepreneurs and others at the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium, to be held Nov. 13-14 at Madison’s Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center. For more information or to register for the conference, go to http://www.wisearlystage.com/.

Guest column: Business plans/pitches and intellectual property disclosure

October 31, 2012

One of the conundrums facing entrepreneurs seeking venture or high impact angel financing is when and what to disclose about the entrepreneur’s intellectual property.

WisBusiness.com: Madison medical device startup takes big step with first patient

October 31, 2012

Glenn, an interventional radiologist working in Green Bay at the time, is an avowed tinkerer who had come up with several different medical innovations that he'd licensed to companies such as Johnson & Johnson. But when he invented a minimally invasive, patient-friendly alternative to larger chest ports and peripherally inserted central catheters, he decided to start his own company. He dubbed it Stealth Therapeutics, with the aim of designing and developing a portfolio of improved venous access devices.

Stealth Therapeutics took second place in the life sciences division of the 2006 Wisconsin Governor's Business Plan Contest.

Latest 'WisBusiness: The Show' features Reed Hall, interim CEO of WEDC

October 26, 2012

In the latest edition of "WisBusiness: The Show," Reed Hall, the interim head of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp., says he's confident the organization is headed in a good direction. Also on the show, Tom Still talks about the growing number of new business establishments in Wisconsin and the WisBusiness.com Stock Report covers Exact Sciences and Allstate Insurance.

Click here to view the biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, as well as our archives of past shows. The show is sponsored by Grant Thornton, Madison Gas & Electric, Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., and the UW-Milwaukee.

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Madison start-up to participate in incubator program

October 26, 2012

Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium topics offer tips from entrepreneurs, investors

October 25, 2012

Fourteen panel discussions on topics of interest to entrepreneurs and investors alike will be among the highlights of the annual Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium, to be held Nov. 13-14 in Madison. Produced by the Wisconsin Technology Council and its partners, the conference gives selected companies the opportunity to make presentations and meet with investors. For more information and to register for the conference, go to http://www.wisearlystage.com/

WIN-Madison meeting focused on Internet needs for UW-Madison researchers

October 25, 2012
The president of AT&T Wisconsin said his company “completely supports” the UW-Madison’s efforts to stay connected to Internet 2 and other comparable networks dedicated to serving the computing needs of major research universities.

Wisconsin State Journal: WARF, Hyrax reach deal on biofuel license

October 23, 2012

Hyrax Energy has reached a licensing agreement with the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation to move ahead with technology aimed at reducing the cost of processing waste agricultural products to turn them into biofuel or chemicals.

Wisconsin State Journal: Midwest attracting West Coast attention

October 19, 2012

Maybe the Midwest is not so much of a fly-over zone for investors any more. A Silicon Valley venture capital firm came to Madison a week ago to talk to some promising local tech companies. Meanwhile, two West Coast venture firms announced plans recently to open Midwest offices. Artiman Ventures, of East Palo Alto, Calif., met with about half a dozen companies at the offices of the Wisconsin Technology Council in Madison, council president Tom Still said.

Latest NSF grant to UW-Madison will speed progress on 100 gigabit research network

October 18, 2012

The National Science Foundation has awarded $500,000 to UW-Madison to upgrade its computing infrastructure so that researchers can more easily move large amounts of data to and from the campus.

NIH grant expert Milman to speak Nov. 13 at Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium

October 18, 2012

Gregory Milman, who has led major programs within the National Institutes of Health and is recognized as an expert on federal Small Business Innovation Research grants, will speak Nov. 13 during the first day of the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium in Madison. For more information and to register for the conference, go to http://www.wisearlystage.com/

Tech Council adds seven to its board of directors

October 18, 2012
Seven leaders from Wisconsin’s tech and engineering industries, private equity and political sectors have been elected to the Wisconsin Technology Council Board of Directors. Elected at recent board meetings were:

· James Antczak, biomedical technology licensing manager, Medical College of Wisconsin
· Lisa Johnson, vice president of entrepreneurship and innovation, Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation
· Brian Lindstrom, controller, Epic Systems
· Jeanne McCabe, president and CEO, JZB Solutions
· Jim Pavlik, partner, Baird Venture Partners
· John Wiley, former chancellor, UW-Madison
· James Zylstra, vice president of finance, Wisconsin Technical College System



Delegation from German state of Saxony-Anhalt to examine tech transfer in Wisconsin

October 17, 2012

A delegation from the German state of Saxony-Anhalt will visit Wisconsin next week to learn more about technology transfer and entrepreneurism.

Headed by Birgitta Wolff, Saxony-Anhalt's minister of the economics and technology, the group of about 20 representatives of industry and academia will visit Madison and Milwaukee, Oct. 24-26, following a visit to Atlanta.

Greater Madison Convention and Visitors Bureau aims to attract tech-based events

October 14, 2012

The Greater Madison Convention and Visitors Bureau, a member of the Wisconsin Innovation Network, wants to help attract more tech-based regional and national events to the area. Go to http://www.visitmadison/.com/home to fill out a form that can help the GMCVB's meeting planners reach out to meeting planners for trade associations, academic groups and other regional or national groups with ties to Wisconsin.

"Conventions and conferences not only help the local economy while visitors are here, but the exposure generated by such events helps to showcase the region's tech-based economy," said Tom Still, president of the Tech Council and WIN.

Contact Ann Shea at the GMCVB (608-255-2537) to learn more or to offer ideas.

Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: UWM's Innovation Center in Wauwatosa moving forward

October 13, 2012
Na Jin Seo is creating devices to help stroke survivors better use their hands, while Junhong Chen is researching ways to improve early detection of infectious diseases. Both engineering professors are eager to see the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's Innovation Park development in Wauwatosa finally moving forward after a yearlong delay.

Latest 'WisBusiness: The Show' features Linda Hoff of Physicians Plus

October 12, 2012
In the latest edition of WisBusiness.com: The Show, Tom Still talks about the new “In Wisconsin” brand; the WisBusiness.com Stock Report covers the bumper cranberry crop and layoffs at Lands’ End; and Liz Schrum talks to Linda Hoff, president of Physician Plus Insurance Corp., about the future of health care.

Click here to view the biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Wisconsin Technology Council and WisBusiness.com, as well as our archives of past shows. The show is sponsored by Grant Thornton, Madison Gas & Electric, Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., and the UW-Milwaukee.

Internet legend Landweber to speak Nov. 13 at Early Stage event

October 9, 2012

Larry Landweber, a UW-Madison computer science professor who was among 31 inaugural members of the Internet Society’s global Hall of Fame, will speak Nov. 13 during the first day of the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium in Madison.

 

Madison company Echometrix gets OK to sell ultrasound technology

October 4, 2012
Echometrix, a Madison medical technology company, has received U.S. Food and Drug Administration approval to sell its EchoSoft ultrasound technology.

UW-Madison: Researchers develop efficient, scalable process for making renewable liquid fuels

October 4, 2012
Using simple technology developed primarily for producing electricity from hydrogen, a team of researchers from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Massachusetts-Amherst and Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology of South Korea has developed what could be a commercially viable, continuous process for converting biomass and electricity into renewable liquid transportation fuels.

Madison's Orbitec unveils rocket engine designed to send satellites to space

October 2, 2012
It's a project that's been in the works for 15 years, but Madison-based Orbital Technologies Corp., or Orbitec, is only now going public with news about its VR-3A Vision flight rocket engine.

Beloit firm to build factory for NorthStar Medical Technologies

October 2, 2012
Hendricks Commercial Properties, Beloit, has agreed to build the factory for NorthStar Medical Technologies, a Madison company that will produce a medical isotope used in thousands of procedures every day.

Tech and Biotech: Stealth Therapeutics celebrates first implantation of Invisiport

October 2, 2012
Madison medical device company Stealth Therapeutics is marking a big milestone: Its Invisiport has been implanted in the first patient, an 18-year-old northern California woman.

State Journal: Advances at Madison-area firms BioIonix, Stealth Technologies

October 1, 2012

Click here to read Judy Newman's column in the Wisconsin State Journal on advances for Madison-area firms BioIonix and Stealth Therapeutics.

Latest 'WisBusiness: The Show' features WEDC's Paul Jadin on move to Thrive

September 28, 2012

In the latest edition of WisBusiness.com: The Show, Tom Still talks about building a skilled workforce in Wisconsin; the WisBusiness.com Stock Report covers GE Healthcare’s recent announcements and the impending close of the Dairy Business Innovation Center; and Liz Schrum talks to Paul Jadin, who will leave the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. to become the new head of Thrive.

Click to here to view the biweekly show, produced by Tweedee Productions for the Tech Council and WisBusiness.com, as well as our archives of past shows. The show is sponsored by Grant Thornton, Madison Gas & Electric, Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek S.C., and the UW-Milwaukee.

UW-Madison CIO Maas named to national boards on Internet technology

September 27, 2012

Bruce Maas, the chief information officer for the UW-Madison, has been named to the board of directors for EDUCAUSE, the association for information technology in higher education. He has also been appointed to the Internet2 External Relations Advisory Committee.

Marketing campaign for "In Wisconsin" promotes state's business climate

September 27, 2012
The Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation has unveiled its marketing initiative to brand Wisconsin’s business climate and promote the benefits of starting, expanding or locating a business in Wisconsin.

NorthStar Medical Technologies signs construction agreement with Hendricks group

September 27, 2012

NorthStar Medical Technologies LLC has signed an agreement with Hendricks Commercial Properties to develop a state-of-the-art medical isotope production facility in the Gateway Business Park of Beloit, Wis. The facility will be built to suit for lease. Once complete, the facility will allow for the safe, non-uranium-based production of Molybdenum-99, a medical isotope used daily in the United States for more than 50,000 diagnostic medical procedures—and currently supplied entirely via importation from foreign nuclear reactors.

State companies make pitches to Chinese investors

September 26, 2012
Eighteen state companies are making presentations this week to Chinese investors who have said they want to invest $100 million in state companies.

Madison firm's medical device implanted in patient

September 26, 2012
Stealth Therapeutics Inc. said Wednesday its new port for intravenous treatment has been implanted in a patient for the first time.

Promentis receives grant to develop schizophrenia drugs

September 26, 2012
Milwaukee-based Promentis Pharmaceuticals Inc. has received a three-year, $1.8 million award from the National Institutes of Health to develop more effective drugs to treat schizophrenia.

Emerging companies may apply now to present at Nov. 13-14 Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium

September 17, 2012
The producers of the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium are looking for cutting-edge companies from Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest to present to investors at the  Nov. 13-14 conference at Madison’s Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center.

Minority business conference set for Oct. 15-16 in Milwaukee

September 17, 2012

Minority-owned businesses seeking sales leads and development assistance should attend the Marketplace 2012 Governor’s Conference on Minority Business Development Conference, Oct. 15-16 at the Potawatomi Expo Center in Milwaukee.

Madison gaming company PerBlue gains national attention via Empact 100 list

September 14, 2012

PerBlue Inc., a Madison-based mobile and social gaming software start-up, is the only Wisconsin company to be named to the Empact 100 list. Learn more in a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel story.

WisBusiness event: Diplomats say free trade, not tariffs, help grow economy for all

September 14, 2012
Diplomats from India, the United Kingdom and Canada agreed Thursday that free trade agreements will help grow economies in the United States and beyond. They spoke at an event produced by WisBusiness.com and sponsored by the Wisconsin Technology Council and others. Click here to read more.

SpeechTails raises venture debt funding, signs market agreement

September 14, 2012
SpeechTails, a Wisconsin-based company that was among the top 12 finalists in the 2011 Wisconsin Governor’s Business Plan Contest, has been approved for a $300,000 investment through the Milwaukee Economic development Corp.’s venture debt program. The company has also signed a non-exclusive agreement with Connections, an affiliate of Pearson Education Inc., which is a national leader in virtual and blended learning systems.

GE Healthcare, UW med school announce $32.9-million research agreement

September 13, 2012
An agreement to continue and expand an already well-established research collaboration between GE Healthcare and the UW-Madison was announced Thursday at a news conference at the UW Health Sciences Learning Center. Click here to read a story from BizTimes Milwaukee. 

Emerging companies may apply by Oct. 1 to present at Early Stage Symposium

September 13, 2012

The producers of the Wisconsin Early Stage Symposium are looking for cutting-edge companies from Wisconsin and the Upper Midwest to present to investors at the Nov. 13-14 conference at Madison’s Monona Terrace Community and Convention Center.

 

The annual conference gives selected companies the opportunity to make presentations and meet with investors. For many firms, participation in the conference has been a key factor for significant business growth. For more information and to register for the conference, go to http://www.wisearlystage.com/.

The deadline to apply to present is 5 p.m. Monday, Oct. 1, 2012.

Madison tech entrepreneurs win $70,000 prize in San Francisco contest

September 13, 2012
Two Madison entrepreneurs with deep roots in mobile applications won a prestigious contest in San Francisco, Calif., over 145 other entries Read more here in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

Group lays out plan to invigorate technology education – and Wisconsin’s economy

September 13, 2012
A group of business and education leaders from across Wisconsin has hammered out a plan to spur educational growth in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), which include concepts such as removing barriers to related career exploration and forging more public-private partnerships in this tech-driven area.

Guest column: Microsoft exec on why updating to Windows 7 now makes sense

September 12, 2012
It may surprise you to know that Microsoft isn’t necessarily recommending that all businesses, organizations and consumer wait for Windows 8. In fact, the decision many PC users should make with confidence is to upgrade to Windows 7 first.

Tom Still commentary: Food industry's impact goes beyond 'organic' paradigm

September 8, 2012
A study released last week by scientists at Stanford University concluded there's not much difference, in terms of nutritional value, between conventionally grown foods and those of the organic variety.

Oshkosh Corp. awarded $67 million military order for all-terrain trucks

September 7, 2012
Oshkosh Corp. has received a $67 million order from the U.S. Marine Corps for all-terrain trucks, the company said Thursday.

Three biotech companies to expand in Madison's University Research Park

September 6, 2012
Three biotechnology companies will expand in Madison's University Research Park. Click here to see the full Milwaukee Journal Sentinel story.

NeuWave Medical raises $14 million in venture funding

September 6, 2012
NeuWave Medical, a Madison-based medical device company, has raised $14 million in a second roud of financing. H.I.G. BioVentures, a new investor in the company, led the funding round. Read full Milwaukee Journal Sentinel story here.

Senate panel holds hearing on early stage capital; Tech Council's Still, Brandon testify

September 6, 2012
A number of entrepreneurs, investors and others with a stake in Wisconsin's high-growth economy were among those who testified Thursday during a Senate committee hearing on the need for a state-leveraged early stage capital fund. Tom Still, president of the Wisconsin Technology Council, and Zach Brandon, director of the Tech Council's Wisconsin Angel Network, were among those who testified. Look for coverage of the hearing at http://www.wiseye.org/

NorthStar Medical Technologies secures $5.2 million in new funding

September 6, 2012
NorthStar Medical Technologies, a manufacturer and distributor of domestically-produced radioisotopes for the nuclear medicine field, has announced the closing of a Series D preferred stock financing round totaling $5.2 million.

Indian health care company licenses software from Medical College, UW-Milwaukee

September 5, 2012
AdvenioTecnoSys, a health care company based in Kolkata, India, has licensed software that automatically assets images of the liver from two Wisconsin research institutions -- the Medical College of Wisconsin and the UW-Milwaukee. Read the full Milwaukee Journal Sentinel story here.

Federal tech scouts to detail agency needs during Sept. 6 ‘Resource Rendezvous’

September 4, 2012
A lineup of speakers and technology scouts will help Wisconsin researchers and companies better understand federal R&D and contract needs during Thursday’s sixth annual “Resource Rendezvous” in Madison.

Conference to help state firms land federal work

August 31, 2012
Thirteen state companies will showcase their research and products next week in Madison at an event sponsored by the Wisconsin Security Research Consortium.

‘WisBusiness: The Show’ covers news, commentary; interview with foreign direct investment expert

August 31, 2012
In the latest edition of WisBusiness.com: The Show, Tom Still talks about guiding principles for a state-leveraged early stage capital program; the WisBusiness.com Stock Report covers telecom investment and jobless rates; and Molly Lahr talks to Scott Mosley, who leads foreign direct investment efforts for the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp.

Campus Connection: WARF keeps UW among leaders in cashing in on research

August 30, 2012
UW-Madison, thanks to its partnership with the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation, remained among the national leaders in commercializing its academic research during the 2011 fiscal year, according to an annual survey of the Association of University Technology Managers released earlier in the week.

Bioenergy research leader to speak Sept. 12 at Wisconsin Cleantech Network forum

August 30, 2012
Tim Donohue, the principal investigator at the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center in Madison, will speak about the center’s cutting-edge work at the Sept. 12 meeting of the Wisconsin Cleantech Network in Madison.

Promentis Pharmaceuticals receives funding from Michael J. Fox Foundation

August 27, 2012
Promentis Pharmaceuticals Inc. said Friday it has received a $299,000 award from the Michael J. Fox Foundation to conduct further research into compounds that show promise for treating Parkinson's disease.

Gener8tor holds launch party for 7 companies

August 27, 2012
Mayor Tom Barrett, state legislators, financiers and others were among more than 300 people who attended a launch party for seven new companies Thursday night at Discovery World in Milwaukee.

Tom Still commentary: Early-stage capital program to enter state budget debate

August 27, 2012
The history of the Wisconsin Legislature suggests that most big ideas take more than one floor session to pass. From how the state pays for public schools to welfare reform, and from school vouchers to health care for low-income families, major initiatives rarely pass by acclamation in the Capitol.

Tech companies will present to federal scouts during Sept. 6 ‘Resource Rendezvous’ in Madison

August 27, 2012
Thirteen companies with research and products of potential interest to federal science and technology scouts have been selected to present Sept. 6 in Madison, Wis., during the sixth annual “Resource Rendezvous.”

Oshkosh wins role in Humvee replacement

August 24, 2012
A competition to replace thousands of U.S. military vehicles, potentially worth billions of dollars, has heated up with the naming of Oshkosh Corp. as one of three firms awarded vehicle engineering and manufacturing development contracts.

Walker, groups to try again for venture capital bill

August 24, 2012
Gov. Scott Walker has asked the state commerce agency to pull together a broad coalition in a new effort to develop venture capital legislation aimed at creating more jobs in Wisconsin.

Four Madison businesses among 1st graduates in tech startup program

August 24, 2012
A new Wisconsin accelerator program for technology companies, gener8tor, introduced its first class of graduates in Milwaukee on Thursday, and four of the seven young businesses are in Madison.

Entrepreneurs gather in Madison for Forward Technology Festival

August 22, 2012
Midwestern entrepreneurs and innovators are gathering in Madison for a 10-day event called the Forward Technology Festival.

Sept. 13 event in Madison will inform attendees about how international trade with Canada, United Kingdom and India is faring during turbulent economic times

August 22, 2012
Some one in five Wisconsin jobs depends upon international trade. Find out more about how international trade with Canada, United Kingdom and India is faring during turbulent economic times and what that means for future business and jobs.

Aviation, aerospace sectors growing in state

August 20, 2012

Bill Watson took the entrepreneurial plunge in the late 1970s. He developed a low-cost, reliable gyroscope, quit his job in Virginia and moved to the Chippewa Valley in 1980 to fine-tune and manufacture the product. Today he oversees Watson Industries, which makes gyro products and systems that are used to stabilize cameras over football fields and antennas on cruise ships or to control unmanned aircraft. Gyroscopes are mechanical devices that maintain or measure orientation.

Internet entrepreneur is ready to match women with just the right cosmetics

August 20, 2012
Jalem Getz, an entrepreneur who grew BuySeasons.com from nothing into a $160 million company, has started what he says could be an even bigger winner.

Scientists win award to create patient, doctor avatars

August 16, 2012
Scientists from the Medical College of Wisconsin and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee have received a one-year, $100,000 award from a Milwaukee businessman and his wife to develop avatars for patients and doctors that would allow the medical professionals to see more people, more efficiently.

Stevens Point firm Skyward named one of 50 best ed-tech software tools for schools

August 15, 2012

Skyward, Inc., based in Stevens Point, Wis., has earned a 2012 Readers’ Choice Award for its software-driven school management system. Skyward is a member of the Tech Council's Wisconsin Innovation Network.

Sept. 6 ‘Resource Rendezvous’ line-up will cover federal needs in defense, cyber and medical sectors

August 15, 2012
Speakers with first-hand knowledge about federal government needs in sectors such as defense, homeland security, cybersecurity and medical simulation will speak Sept. 6 in Madison, Wis., during the sixth annual “Resource Rendezvous.”

Cellular Dynamics and CeeTox unveil stem cell screening device

August 14, 2012
Madison-based Cellular Dynamics International and CeeTox, of Kalamazoo, Mich., on Tuesday announced a stem cell screening device to check for heart problems in potential new drugs.

Tom Still commentary: UWM pairings with industry have paid off

August 13, 2012
On his second day at work as dean of the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee College of Engineering in 2008, Mike Lovell met with leaders of Johnson Controls Inc. Power Solutions group. It was time well spent - even if Wisconsin newcomer Lovell had barely unpacked.

Tech festival, VentureLab put focus on entrepreneurship

August 13, 2012

If you’ve ever thought about starting a company – especially if there’s technology involved – the next week or two should get those juices flowing. All sorts of activities are on tap, primarily tied to the Forward Technology Festival, Aug. 15-25. Meanwhile, 16 budding entrepreneurs will get intensive training on how to run a business at VentureLab Wisconsin 2012 at University Research Park.

AhR Pharma, WARF sign license for cancer-fighting hormone developed on campus

August 13, 2012
AhR Pharmaceuticals Inc. and the Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation have signed an exclusive license agreement for ITE, a natural hormone discovered by UW-Madison researchers with properties helpful in treating cancer, obesity and immune system disorders.

Monona company leading the way in LED efficiency: State Journal

August 13, 2012

If the city of Monona, at night, looks brighter lately, Rob and Cynthia Everhart had a hand in that. Their growing Monona company, Energy Tech Solutions, provided the energy-efficient LED lights that now illuminate the exteriors of several city-owned buildings and parking lots and parks, from City Hall and the Fire Department to the community center, the skate park, the pool house, tennis courts and more.

Air Force expands use of Telkonet energy technology: Journal Sentinel

August 13, 2012

The U.S. Air Force has expanded its use of energy-saving technology developed by Wauwatosa-based Telkonet Inc. at one of its bases. The Air Force had already contracted to install intelligent thermostats at more than 2,800 rooms on the base earlier this year, Telkonet said. The company said the savings achieved so far prompted the base to install them in 800 additional rooms.

Exact Sciences completes secondary stock offering: State Journal

August 13, 2012
Exact Sciences Corp. of Madison said Monday it has completed its previously announced secondary public offering of common stock at a price of $9.75 per share.

Seely on science: Exploring the human side of nanotechnology

August 10, 2012

In today's fast-moving technological world, some words can quickly lose their meaning. Take the word "nanotechnology," for example. We see and hear it all the time. But, other than a vague sense that some pretty amazing things are being done with very small things, most of us don't really have a handle on the promise of this science.

Latest on FatWallet move from Illinois to Wisconsin: WisBusiness.com

August 9, 2012
FatWallet made big news last year when it jumped across the border (a mere five-mile hop) from Rockton, Ill., to Beloit. The move was due -- at least in part -- to a call from Wisconsin Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch, who told Storm she would do just about anything to convince FatWallet to move.

Exact Sciences expects to raise $50 million through additional stock offering

August 9, 2012
Exact Sciences Corp. wants to raise $50 million to get its test for colon cancer ready to go to market, even though it will be more than a year before that happens, in the best of circumstances.

Tech and Biotech: Bjorksten|bit 7 -- Adding a sweet side to its bees-ness

August 8, 2012
Madison product development firm Bjorksten|bit 7 wanted to get the word out that it offers more than just design, engineering and prototyping services. But it didn’t want to hand out pens or zip drives or the usual widgets. So it took a rather unorthodox, sweet step to create that message.

Rockwell acquires Chinese maker of medium voltage drives

August 8, 2012
Rockwell Automation Inc. said Tuesday it has agreed to buy the assets of the medium voltage drives business of China-based Harbin Jiuzhou Electric Co. Ltd. for about $83 million.

Executive Q&A: Michael Williamson is investing in Wisconsin

August 8, 2012
Michael Williamson holds the keys to $80 billion, money that more than half a million people are counting on to pay their bills when they retire.

WisBusiness: The Show - Dane County Regional Airport Director Brad Livingston

August 8, 2012
Welcome to a new episode of "WisBusiness: The Show," a twice-a-month Web show covering state business news and issues.

Pinstripe acquired by California private equity firm Accel-KKR

August 3, 2012
Pinstripe Inc., a Brookfield recruitment process outsourcing firm, has been acquired by Accel-KKR, a private equity firm that primarily focuses on technology.

Lt. Gov, Kleefisch congratulates Biz Plan Contest finalists

August 2, 2012
Lt. Gov. Rebecca Kleefisch congratulated finalists from the 2012 Wisconsin Governor's Business Plan Contest Wednesday night, noting that small businesses are vital drivers of the U.S. and Wisconsin economies. Read WisBusiness.com story here

State certifies eight start-ups for investor tax credits

August 1, 2012
Eight start-up companies have been certified as qualified new business ventures by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp., the agency said Wednesday.

Business start-ups will make their pitches to investors

August 1, 2012
Gener8tor, a Milwaukee group formed in February to accelerate start-ups, said Wednesday it will hold its first launch day on Aug. 23 for five start-up companies.

Chicago micro grid launches with locally developed energy storage system

July 31, 2012
A ZBB Energy Corp. energy storage system has been installed and commissioned in Chicago as part of a micro grid demonstration project.

VictorySpark affiliates with Global Accelerator Network

July 31, 2012
VictorySpark Inc., which makes investments in young, military veteran-owned businesses, has become the first veteran-oriented group to affiliate with the Global Accelerator Network.

Director of national defense innovation group to speak Sept. 6 at annual ‘Resource Rendezvous’

July 31, 2012
Pete Palmer, director of General Dynamics’ EDGE Innovation Network, will speak Sept. 6 in Madison, Wis., during the sixth annual “Resource Rendezvous.”

Business travel flying high in Madison area

July 30, 2012
Business travel is on the rise in the Madison area, enough that some travel agents say it is back to 2008 levels, before recession-related cutbacks.

Building a work force: Sullivan to recommend encouraging immigration to help fill jobs gap

July 30, 2012
Wisconsin will need to become more immigrant-friendly if the state’s economy is going to keep pace with employer needs in the coming decades, says a prominent business executive who heads Gov. Scott Walker’s initiative for work force development.

Medical College to join gene-sequencing partnership

July 30, 2012
The Medical College of Wisconsin has signed a collaboration agreement with Transgenomic Inc. that calls for the school to provide sophisticated gene-sequencing services for one of the company's products.

Cow manure is focus of biofuel research

July 30, 2012
The race to create a better, less controversial biofuel has spawned plenty of research into a variety of potential new sources - including switchgrass, cornstalks and algae.

Tom Still commentary: Wisconsin, Upper Midwest have ingredients to attract venture capital funds

July 30, 2012
After his obituary was mistakenly published, American author and humorist Mark Twain sent home a cable from London that read: "The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated."

Joint venture set for developing medical devices

July 27, 2012
Bjorksten|bit7, Madison, has entered a joint venture with Granite MEDSystems, Mequon. The two companies will work together to develop medical devices for clients.

Madison ranked No. 1 for young adults in Kiplinger's Personal Finance survey

July 27, 2012
Madison was ranked the No. 1 U.S. city for young adults by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance on a new list of the top five best cities for young adults. The magazine said Madison was an “educated, tech-savvy city” with many recent college graduates who help foster an “entrepreneurial community” for start-up companies. Click here to read more.


Venture capital firm raises $70 million for new fund, investor says

July 26, 2012
Madison-based venture capital firm Venture Investors has received commitments of $70 million for its fifth venture capital fund, according to an investor in the fund.

U.S. Forest Products Lab to open nanomaterials plant

July 25, 2012
The U.S. Forest Products Laboratory, in Madison, says it's opening a $1.7 million pilot plant that will support an emerging market for wood products derived from nanotechnology.

Honam and ZBB to continue battery partnership

July 25, 2012
Honam Petrochemical Co. and ZBB Energy Corp. are in discussions on ramping up manufacturing of EnerStore zinc bromide batteries.

Stem cell pioneer Thomson, UW researchers receive $2.2 million grant

July 25, 2012
Stem cell pioneer James Thomson and two other University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers have received a $2.2 million, two-year federal grant that is part of an initiative to improve the process for predicting whether potential new drugs are safe in humans.

Medical College licenses acid reflux device from Somna Therapeutics

July 25, 2012
The Medical College of Wisconsin said Wednesday it has completed a licensing agreement with a start-up that is developing a device for patients with severe acid reflux.

Wisconsin angel investment leader tapped for national public policy campaign

July 25, 2012
Wisconsin Angel Network Director Zach Brandon has been selected by the national Angel Capital Association to be the vice chair of the organization’s public policy committee.

Printed photonic crystal mirrors shrink on-chip lasers down to size

July 23, 2012
Electrical engineers at The University of Texas at Arlington and at the University of Wisconsin-Madison have devised a new laser for on-chip optical connections that could give computers a huge boost in speed and energy efficiency. The team published its findings on July 22, 2012 in Nature Photonics.

Tech and Biotech: An innovation award for Bruker AXS

July 23, 2012
A machine developed by Bruker AXS, Fitchburg, has won an R&D 100 award.

'WisBusiness: The Show' features interview with co-founder of Scootercabs

July 19, 2012
In the latest edition of WisBusiness.com: The Show, Tom Still talks about the need to keep well-educated, foreign-born students in America; the WisBusiness.com Stock Report covers banking industry news and the postponed acquisition of Appleton Inc.; and Liz Schrum talks to Justin Sisley, the co-founder of Scootercabs, an entrepreneurial startup that is helping keep intoxicated people off the road while getting them and their cars home safely.

$300,000 grant to boost veterans' start-ups

July 18, 2012
The Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. said Tuesday it will give a $300,000 grant to VictorySpark Inc., a group that will make investments in young, veteran-owned businesses.

Most U.S. research funding in Wisconsin goes to academia, not industry

July 17, 2012
Federal research dollars coming into Wisconsin flow overwhelmingly into academia rather than industry, a National Science Foundation report shows.

Yahoo raids Google's ranks for its latest CEO

July 17, 2012
SAN FRANCISCO (AP) Yahoo has hired longtime Google executive Marissa Mayer as its next CEO in the Internet company's latest attempt to burnish its image and revive its financial growth after years of often-demoralizing upheaval.

Angels will trump crowd funding

July 17, 2012
Congress and the president were well-intended when they created the JOBS Act in April to help young companies raise capital, but their new law is probably not going to have much of an impact on job creation.

Kohler Center at Marquette sharpens focus on startups

July 16, 2012
The Kohler Center for Entrepreneurship at Marquette University   advises students to find out who their customers are and what those customers want before offering a product.

Tom Still colunm in Journal Sentinel: Streamline visa process for educated immigrants

July 16, 2012
Ankit Agarwal is a two-time finalist in the Wisconsin Governor's Business Plan Contest and a biochemical engineer whose work promises to help doctors treat patients with slow-to-heal skin wounds. He's even started a Madison-based company, Imbed Biosciences, to commercialize his discoveries.

Accuray to buy medical imaging company

July 16, 2012
Accuray, the parent company of TomoTherapy, has signed an agreement to buy Morphormics, a privately owned medical imaging software company, for $5.7 million.

Wausau native Mayer is new CEO of Yahoo

July 16, 2012
Yahoo! is hiring Google executive Marissa Mayer, a native of Wausau, to be its next chief executive officer.

Water company start-ups to make their pitch to investors

July 11, 2012
Eight water-related companies will make presentations Wednesday to wealthy investors at an event sponsored by Golden Angel Investors LLC and two partners.

Madison firm gets FDA clearance for asthma inhaler sensor

July 11, 2012
Asthmapolis, a Madison-based company, will be rolling out its asthma inhaler sensor, along with mobile and web application software, to the public after receiving federal clearance on Tuesday.

Payoff may be near for Exact Sciences

July 9, 2012

Exact Sciences Corp. was one of the top-performing stocks in Wisconsin over the last year. And that was despite reporting losses totaling $60 million over the 39 months ended March 31.

Firm that predicts fishing hot spots wins business plan award

July 5, 2012
Strategic Fishing Systems LLC, a Madison company that predicts the best fishing locations, has received a $25,000 software, applications and consulting package for its first place finish in the information technology category of the Wisconsin Governor's Business Plan Contest.

Biofuels proposals sought, Madison's Virent among firms invited to participate

July 3, 2012
A biofuels initiative that aims to reduce the military's reliance on imported petroleum is moving ahead, with companies including Madison-based Virent Inc. invited to submit proposals in a $30 million initiative announced Monday.

Tech Council board member Clancy to retire as president of tech college system

July 3, 2012

MADISON – Dan Clancy has announced his retirement as president of the Wisconsin Technical College System. Clancy will step down effective Sept. 14, 2012, following a 16-year tenure, including the past eight years as system president. He is a member of the Wisconsin Technology Council board of directors and its Human Capital Committee.

Tom Still commentary in Journal Sentinel: Time to get creative on job creation

July 2, 2012
The good news for Wisconsin’s economy: It added nearly 20,000 jobs in 2011, according to the now-official figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The not-so-good news: Wisconsin still ranked behind 40 other states when it came to creating jobs.

Dahlberg named interim executive director for Morgridge Institute

June 29, 2012

Saying its current executive director is leaving at the end of the month "to pursue new career interests and opportunities," the Morgridge Institute for Research has named James Dahlberg interim executive director.

Watch 'WisconsinEye' coverage of June 26 WIN meeting on growth capital

June 26, 2012

Click here to watch 'WisconsinEye' video coverage of the June 26 WIN-Madison meeting, at which Revenue Secretary Rick Chandler discussed the state's tax climate and the prospects for a growth capital program for Wisconsin. Chandler was joined at the meeting by investor Tim Keane and Todd Asmuth of AquaMost.

Tech and Biotech: Bioscience industry adds jobs while others don't

June 25, 2012
The bioscience industry gave itself a pat on the back this week for adding jobs over the last decade, even as employment overall dropped nationwide.

Column: Wisconsin execs see promising future for women in biotech

June 25, 2012
This year’s BIO International Convention shows the face of the world’s biotechnology industry hasn’t changed much. The cavernous halls of Boston’s international trade center are a vast conglomeration of people, cultures and nationalities from around the world.

Pair launches new venture capital fund

June 25, 2012
Two veteran investors are trying to establish a new $50 million venture capital fund that would invest primarily in companies in Wisconsin and other Midwestern states.

Weeklong class prepares participants to cash in on their billion-dollar idea

June 25, 2012

Starting a business is not the usual course of action for a budding doctor, pharmacist or scientist. But a UW-Madison program is trying to change that.

Latest 'WisBiz: The Show' features Holly Hawkins of Tri-North on green building

June 22, 2012
Click here to watch the latest edition of "WisBusiness: The Show," which features Liz Schrum's interview with Holly Hawkins of Tri-North Builders, Tom Still's commentary on Gov. Scott Walker's "salesman-in-chief" status, and our rising and fall news segment. The Show is sponsored by Grant Thornton, Whyte Hirschboeck Dudek, MGE and the UW-Milwaukee.

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