Milwaukee’s entrepreneurial spirit is thriving, thanks to a robust network of organizations dedicated to supporting small businesses and startups. Whether you’re launching a new venture or looking to expand, the city offers a wealth of resources to guide you on your journey.
Greater Milwaukee Chamber of Commerce (GMCC)
The GMCC serves as a hub for small, micro, and startup businesses in Milwaukee. Committed to promoting business growth, the Chamber offers various services aimed at helping members expand their enterprises and contribute to the city’s economic prosperity.
Greater Milwaukee Urban League (GMUL)
GMUL focuses on empowering communities through education, employment, and economic development. Their initiatives address workforce readiness, career pathways, and wealth building, providing entrepreneurs with the tools needed for success.
Milwaukee County Business Resources
Milwaukee County offers a range of resources to support small businesses, including technical assistance, financing options, and networking opportunities. The county collaborates with various partners to ensure businesses have access to the support they need.
Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce (MMAC)
MMAC has launched initiatives to promote startups and entrepreneurship throughout the region. Their programs aim to transform Milwaukee into a premier destination for founders and venture capital investors by creating awareness and fostering connections within the startup community.
MKE BOSS
MKE BOSS is a one-stop-shop for Milwaukee’s entrepreneurs of color, offering resources to build, operate, scale, and sustain small businesses. By answering a few questions, entrepreneurs can be matched with services tailored to their specific needs.
Growing Entrepreneurs in Milwaukee (GEM)
The GEM program consists of educational modules designed to increase participants’ knowledge of entrepreneurship. Upon completion, participants receive the ReDonna Rodgers Entrepreneurship Permit, equipping them with essential skills for business success.
Small Business Milwaukee
Small Business Milwaukee provides a hub for collaboration and growth, offering partnership-driven campaigns, expert insights, and a comprehensive directory to help local businesses thrive.
UWM Lubar Entrepreneurship Center
The Lubar Entrepreneurship Center at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee offers programming in innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship, engaging students, faculty, and the community in creating and scaling new enterprises.
Small Business Enterprise (SBE) Program
The City of Milwaukee’s SBE Program enhances the small business community by maximizing support services, contract opportunities, and financial resources. Businesses seeking certification can apply to become a certified Small Business Enterprise.
Pop-Up MKE
Pop-Up MKE is a partnership focused on economic development and entrepreneurship, providing entrepreneurs with opportunities to test their market and products in a supportive environment.
BizStarts
BizStarts helps individuals start businesses or paths to self-employment, focusing on providing world-class education to Milwaukee’s underserved communities through coaching, workshops, and connections to resources.
Small Business Development Center at UW-Milwaukee
The SBDC supports entrepreneurs and business owners through no-cost, confidential consulting and educational programs, facilitating improvement and growth for small and mid-sized companies.
Entrepreneur-In-Residence at Milwaukee Public Library
The Entrepreneur-In-Residence program offers guidance and practical tools for entrepreneurs at every stage of life, helping them turn ideas into viable businesses.
RISE MKE
RISE MKE is a 14-week entrepreneurial training program designed to provide business development with a focus on marketing, branding, and network development, ensuring emerging businesses start with a solid foundation.
By leveraging these resources, Milwaukee’s entrepreneurs can access the support and guidance necessary to navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business, contributing to the city’s vibrant economic landscape.