Wood County is abuzz with exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs, and there are some fantastic updates that could be the perfect stepping stones for your entrepreneurial journey. Whether you’re just starting or looking to expand your business, these initiatives are designed to help you succeed.

Entrepreneurial Foundations Scholarship: A Pathway to Success

Wood County is thrilled to announce a new scholarship for residents eager to enroll in Mid-State Technical College’s “Entrepreneurial Foundations” course. This 8-week, one-credit course is an excellent educational opportunity for both new and emerging entrepreneurs. The best part? The scholarship covers all tuition and fees, totaling $170.  “Entrepreneurial Foundations” Scholarship Mid-State offers various formats for the course, including online, in-person, and hybrid options. Some sessions begin as early as next week, so be sure to spread the word and encourage aspiring entrepreneurs in Wood County to seize this opportunity.

The First Pitch Idea Contest: Your Idea Could Win $100

Mark your calendars for Thursday, October 3rd, from 5-7 PM at the Mid-State Technical College Wisconsin Rapids Campus (500 32nd St N). This low-stakes idea contest is the perfect platform to pitch your entrepreneurial ideas. The format is simple: one idea, one minute, one slide. If your idea stands out, you could walk away with $100! This event was a hit in Stevens Point back in March, and now it’s coming to Wisconsin Rapids. Stay tuned for more details.

Entrepreneurship & Placemaking Strategic Doing Workshop

On Monday, October 7th, from 9 AM to 2 PM, join us at Mid-State Technical College’s Stevens Point Campus (1001 Centerpoint Dr) for a regional workshop focusing on fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem and placemaking efforts in Central Wisconsin. This event is open to entrepreneurs and community leaders from Marathon, Portage, and Wood Counties. This workshop is a fantastic opportunity to collaborate on actionable solutions that will benefit our region. Don’t miss out—learn more and register today! Entrepreneurial Ecosystem & Placemaking Strategic Doing Workshop

Emerging Entrepreneur Night: Expand Your Network

Come join fellow entrepreneurs on Thursday, October 24th, from 5-7 PM at Mosinee Brewing Company (401 4th St) for a night of networking and community-building. This event is open to entrepreneurs at all stages, from those with a budding idea to established business owners. It’s an excellent chance to meet like-minded individuals and connect with local entrepreneur-support programs. Mark your calendars and don’t miss out on this opportunity to grow your network. Emerging Entrepreneur Night

Immigration, Employment, and Entrepreneurship: A Legal Symposium for Wisconsin’s Workforce Friday, September 20, 2024

The Rural Wisconsin Entrepreneurship Initiative will host a legal symposium for Wisconsin’s workforce at the WI Latino Chamber of Commerce in Fitchburg. This is a professional development event, led by the Law and Entrepreneurship (L&E) Clinic. This symposium will provide insights into enhancing service providers’ understanding of laws, regulations, and practical solutions concerning employment and entrepreneurship for new immigrants, migrant workers, and undocumented workers. The training will cover topics relevant to employers, employees, job seekers, and entrepreneurs. The event costs $40 to register. Event Link

Reminder: Surge Regional Pitch Competition Applications Due August 30th

A quick reminder that applications for the Surge regional pitch competition are due on August 30th. This competition is a great way to showcase your business idea and gain valuable exposure. Don’t miss this chance to be part of something big!  Surge Application

Finally, if you missed it, Morgan Vanderhei, a Mid-State Instructor, and Kayla Rombalski, Community Development Educator, Wood County, University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension recently appeared on the radio with James Malouf to discuss the Entrepreneurial Foundations course and some of the upcoming events. You can listen to our conversation on Mid-Day Magazine here: Mid-day Magazine – Mid-State & UW-Madison Division of Extension.