Rich Scudellari, Founding Partner of Penny Jar Capital Meet a Visionary Investor Shaping the Future of Entrepreneurship! Join us on Wednesday, September 17 at 12:15 p.m. in Room 4151 Grainger Hall featuring Rich Scudellari, Founding Partner of Penny Jar Capital. Rich brings a powerhouse portfolio of experience—from steering investment strategy at SC30 Inc., the off-court…
Hear from UW-Madison founders at the Wisconsin Entrepreneurs Showcase. Three exceptional Badger alumni will share their entrepreneurial journeys, leadership insights, and how their UW experiences set them on the road to success. Free and open to students, faculty, staff, alumni and the public. Pre-registration requested. Presented by the Weinert Center for Entrepreneurship, Startup Learning Community,…
David L. Epstein, Former Investment Banker and President and CEO of Deli, Inc., a Family Business Come join us to meet David Epstein, a seasoned entrepreneur and current CEO of Deli, Inc., North America’s leading sphagnum moss supplier. With a background in commercial and investment banking—and a career built on launching and leading ventures—David offers…
Have an incredible idea for the next crave-worthy frozen or packaged food? Join the Idea to Aisle Pitch Competition — kicking off October 7, 5:30–7:00 p.m. Open to all first-year BBA and pre-business students! Why join? Could your idea be the next snack on store shelves? Event hosted by the Weinert Center for Entrepreneurship in partnership with…
Amy Jo Pedone, Certified Master Chocolatier of Valenza Chocolatier, Inc. Come join us to meet Amy Jo Pedone who started Valenza Chocolatier after working in the commercial real estate finance-lending industry. She completed the Professional Chocolatier Certification, an internship through Ecole Chocolat Professional School of Chocolate Arts, and earned an Ecole Chocolat Master Chocolatier Certification.…
Have a startup idea? Need a teammate? PartnerUp! is your chance to pitch your startup, share your skills, and find your perfect match. One-minute pitches + candy-fueled networking = your next big venture starts here.This free event will be held in 3190 Grainger Hall.
Grace Wang, Founder & CEO of Petphoria Grace Wang, Founder & CEO of Petphoria, is so popular that the pup-arazzi follows her around. With a diverse background in marketing, project management, and entrepreneurship, Grace has honed her skills at Live Nation and marketing agencies. She is passionate about seeking innovative ways to improve the pet…
Kelly Weight, Co-Founder and CEO of Brillect Kelly Weight is a powerhouse in entrepreneurship and leadership. With career stops at Microsoft, Target, and Salo, she now leads a $25M+ consulting firm that blends finance, digital, and HR expertise. Known for leading with empathy and optimism, Kelly champions the idea that people-first businesses are the most…
Shayna Hetzel, Vice President of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. Come join us to meet Shayna Hetzel who has a background in venture capital, public-private partnerships, public policy and corporate strategy. Currently, Shayna leads the state of Wisconsin's efforts to advance startups and emerging growth companies, invest in innovation ecosystems, grow venture…
Kevin Scharnek, CEO of 14 West Come join us to meet Kevin Scharnek. From his campus hustle selling t-shirts and party favors to fellow students, Greek Life and other Big Ten Universities to achieving serial success, his entrepreneurial journey spans fitness franchises, mud runs, and power tech. With a portfolio that spans startups, exits, private…
Ed Harris, Founder of Synnovation Come join us to meet Ed Harris — serial entrepreneur, 3D printing innovator, and proof that retirement is optional. At 76, he's launched Synnovation, his fourth company, solving real-world challenges with cutting-edge tech. Ed will provide powerful insights on building ventures around paradigm shifts.This free event will be held in 4151 Grainger Hall.…
Jazmynn Appleton, Chief Director of Entrepreneurial Growth and Innovation at the Progress Center for Black Women Come join us to meet Jazmynn Appleton, an entrepreneur from Chicago making waves in Madison. At the Progress Center for Black Women, she uplifts Black women through entrepreneurial support. Co-founder of FOCUS, she guides entrepreneurs to success. Recognized for…