New North is helping lead a bold new chapter for entrepreneurship and innovation in Northeast Wisconsin through the launch of the Cheese Wedge Consortium, a collaborative initiative backed by a $1 million Ignite Wisconsin grant designed to accelerate startup growth and strengthen the region’s innovation economy.
Led by New North in partnership with UW‑Green Bay, gener8tor and a strong network of regional collaborators, the consortium reflects the power of organizations coming together around a shared vision for economic growth, talent development and entrepreneurship.
“At New North, we believe innovation thrives when strong partners work together to create opportunity,” said New North President and CEO Patti Habeck. “This initiative will help entrepreneurs across Northeast Wisconsin access the mentorship, investment and support they need to grow innovative businesses and strengthen our regional economy.”
The Cheese Wedge Consortium will connect entrepreneurs with accelerator programming, pre‑seed bootcamps, corporate partnerships, co‑working opportunities and direct investment support. The initiative also positions Northeast Wisconsin as a competitive destination for startup talent, capital and innovation.
The program is expected to spark innovation across many of the region’s key industries. That includes helping manufacturers explore AI‑driven automation and smart technologies, supporting food and agriculture startups developing sustainable processing and packaging solutions, and advancing healthcare innovations focused on rural access and aging populations. Entrepreneurs working in clean energy, logistics, cybersecurity and construction technology will also have opportunities to scale ideas that solve real‑world challenges.
UW‑Green Bay’s emerging Phoenix Innovation Park will serve as a hub for collaboration among students, researchers, founders, corporations and investors. This will create stronger connections between education, workforce development and entrepreneurship.
“Supporting the region’s economic needs and driving entrepreneurship are central to who we are,” said UW‑Green Bay Chancellor Michael Alexander. “This consortium strengthens our commitment to collaboration, innovation and preparing learners of all ages for future opportunities.”
In its first year, the consortium is projected to support 21 startups, directly fund 18 companies, create 46 jobs and generate $3.4 million in regional revenue.
With support from WEDC’s Ignite Wisconsin initiative, the Cheese Wedge Consortium positions Northeast Wisconsin as a leader in Wisconsin’s innovation economy, while helping to shape its future.
Innovation
Company: New North, Inc.
Innovation: The Cheese Wedge Consortium is a regional collaboration that connects funding, education, accelerators and industry partners to accelerate startup growth and strengthen Northeast Wisconsin’s innovation economy.
Website: thenewnorth.com
