TitletownTech, a venture capital firm backed by the Green Bay Packers and Microsoft, has launched the first-ever TitletownTech Startup Draft, a nationwide pitch competition awarding a $1 million investment.
The winner also will receive $350,000 in credits from Microsoft that can be used for the company’s cloud computing business platform.
“The Startup Draft is a strong testament to TitletownTech’s initiative to find and invest in leading entrepreneurs who want to tackle challenges to US growth and opportunity,” says Brad Smith, vice chair and president of Microsoft. You just never know where the next great idea is going to come from or how far it may take you. Frankly, the only way to lose is to fail to compete.”
Startups harnessing emerging technologies in industries aligned with Wisconsin’s core strengths: advanced manufacturing, supply chain, logistics, agriculture, water, energy, digital health, and sports, can apply at TitletownTech.com/TitletownTechStartupDraft. The deadline is March 16.
Hosted in collaboration with the Packers and Microsoft, and in conjunction with the 2025 NFL Draft, the TitletownTech Startup Draft is expected to draw thousands of entries according to TitletownTech Managing Partner Craig Dickman.
“The TitletownTech Startup Draft is creating opportunities for transformative ideas to thrive,” says Dickman. “With the Packers and Microsoft catalyzing this effort, we have a unique stage during the NFL Draft to showcase Wisconsin’s growing innovation ecosystem.”
Finalists will travel to Green Bay to participate in the Startup Combine, taking place April 3 and 4. It will provide an opportunity for startups to refine their pitch, receive market feedback, and engage with TitletownTech’s team, portfolio companies, and corporate investors.
The TitletownTech Startup Draft will culminate with Startup Draft Day, a live-streamed event April 24, ahead of the first round of the NFL Draft. During the event, finalists will pitch their ideas, receive feedback, and compete for a $1 million investment. Details on how to access the livestream of event can be found at TitletownTech.com/TitletownTechStartupDraft.
“The Startup Draft is a natural extension of the Packers’ commitment to fostering growth and opportunity in our community,” said Mark Murphy, President and CEO, Green Bay Packers. “Our unique community-owned structure allows us to invest in initiatives like TitletownTech, which highlight Wisconsin’s strengths and create lasting impact beyond football. This competition is an exciting way to showcase the innovation and talent that will shape the future, making it a perfect complement to the NFL Draft as we highlight the next generation of game-changers on and off the field.”
