OFFICE HOURS

9:45 to 10:15 a.m.
AI in action: Practical approaches for small businesses to boost revenue
Spencer X. Smith, AmpliPhi @AmpliPhiBiz
As AI technology continues to evolve, both startups and established companies are discovering innovative ways to integrate it into their operations for a competitive edge. This session will explore the different uses of AI in business as well as success stories on how leveraging AI can generate revenue for your business.

10:30 to 11 a.m.
The road to MVP traction: Building a strong ‘minimum viable product’ and navigating your market
Ilya Avdeev, UW-Milwaukee Lubar Entrepreneurship Center @UWMLEC
In today’s fast-paced startup ecosystem, achieving product-market fit is crucial, and the journey begins with creating a strong MVP. This discussion will go through into the essentials of building an MVP that not only addresses core user needs but also sets the foundation for sustainable growth.

11:15 to 11:45 a.m.
Fueling innovation in Wisconsin: Programs designed to help early-stage businesses succeed
Joey Frayne, Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. @_InWisconsin
The Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. (WEDC) and its partner networks support technology-based companies through a variety of initiatives. A veteran WEDC representative will provide an overview of key programs and resources available to innovative startups and emerging firms. Examples include the Qualified New Business Venture tax-credit program, Technology Development Loans and the Capital Catalyst program.

2 to 3 p.m.
Tariffs, trade and technology: What Wisconsin companies should know
Roxanne Baumann, Baumann Global
Dennis Yen-Feng Lei, Taipei Economic and Cultural Office @TEOChicago
This discussion will provide Wisconsin businesses with essential insights into how tariffs and trade policies impact their operations. Experts will discuss the current global trade landscape and how evolving tariffs can affect supply chains, costs and market access. Additionally, experts will highlight how emerging technologies can help companies navigate these challenges by improving efficiency, automating processes and ensuring compliance with new regulations.

3:15 to 3:45 p.m.
Building your brand: Effective marketing and LinkedIn strategies for startup business growth
Michellle Breen and Jenny Weeden, Accelity @AccelityMktg
Discover powerful marketing and LinkedIn strategies to grow your small business. This session will provide actionable marketing tactics that drive visibility, engagement and growth, and share how you can leverage LinkedIn for lead generation. A must-attend for entrepreneurs looking to scale their business effectively.

4 to 4:30 p.m.
Investor expectations and founder realities: Essential tips for startup success
David Arnstein, Venture Investors Health Fund
Adam Kadlec, Rivermark Medical
Dana Guthrie, Gateway Capital Partners
In this session, you’ll hear from a founder whose had success fundraising and two investment funds on things you may not know to ask when preparing for a funding round: investment criteria and preferences, investment philosophy, expectations of revenue growth, risk tolerance, exit strategy preferences and more.