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BrightStar Wisconsin Foundation Investments is an equity investment program from BrightStar Wisconsin Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit venture capital firm dedicated to getting capital to Wisconsin entrepreneurs. The Foundation accepts philanthropic donations and deploys those funds as equity investments into early-stage Wisconsin technology companies, with returns recycled into additional startup investments.
To date, BrightStar has made 80+ tech startup investments, supported portfolio companies that have attracted over $1. 5 billion in follow-on capital, and helped create 1,500+ jobs. Eligible recipients are early-stage technology companies based in Wisconsin.
Investment amounts vary based on company stage and opportunity.
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BrightStar Wisconsin Foundation | Nonprofit Venture Capital Firm Job creation through capital donation BrightStar invests in the future of Wisconsin! BrightStar Wisconsin Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to getting capital to Wisconsin entrepreneurs. Why?
They are the most efficient and effective creators of jobs, talent, innovation, and value that our state has. The proven model is simple: we accept donations and then use those funds to make equity investments into Wisconsin early-stage tech companies. When these investments are successful, returns are re-deployed into more entrepreneurs in our great state.
“It’s not too strong a statement to say that the kind of State that Wisconsin becomes will depend upon efforts such as BrightStar. ” Journal/Sentinel Editorial Board “My BrightStar ROI is seeing dozens of innovative Wisconsin start-ups get funded and creating thousands of quality jobs throughout our state …. exactly what BrightStar promised 10 years ago.
” “Brightstar invests wisely, operates with integrity, and adds tremendous value to startups as well as investors. ” Matthew Kee, Manager, Tundra Angels 80 + Tech startup investments $ 1 .
5 B+ Follow-on capital received by portfolio companies after BrightStar investment 1 , 500 + Jobs created by portfolio companies “We grew from an idea to the largest rewards app in the country and employ over 800 incredibly skilled people in under 10 years. I believe that Fetch’s founders, employees, and investors will start and fund dozens of new tech businesses in Wisconsin following the company’s success.
This is how ecosystems develop and BrightStar will be there to help seed these new businesses like they were for us. ” Wes Schroll, CEO, Fetch Rewards “BrightStar was the first investment group to support us with capital. We showed proof of concept and then were able to raise over $1.
5MM in new investment, build out a lab, advance exciting corporate relationships, and take the team to over 10 skilled employees. We intend to make Wisconsin the hub for domestically sourced sustainable battery materials in the U.S. and are appreciative of BrightStar’s efforts in the beginning to help make it happen.
” Carol Hirschmugl, CEO, COnovate “I have seen firsthand how BrightStar leverages its venture philanthropy model to launch businesses and create tech jobs throughout the state. As the President of the Judd S. Alexander Foundation and an active participant in business development in Central Wisconsin, I can say that we are a proud donor and supporter of BrightStar Wisconsin and its mission.
BrightStar is an incredible asset for our state! ” We’re eager to see your ideas succeed. BrightStar Wisconsin can help you launch and scale.
Investment earnings are reinvested again and again, allowing your donation to live forever. BrightStar has a long track record of investing in Wisconsin innovation to create jobs. Do you have a high-growth potential startup or idea in Wisconsin?
Please register your business with BrightStar Wisconsin at the following link to start the evaluation process. GeneralInfo@brightstarwi. org 710 N.
Plankinton Ave. , Ste. 340
Based on current listing details, eligibility includes: Early-stage tech startups in Wisconsin. Applicants should confirm final requirements in the official notice before submission.
Current published award information indicates Varies (equity investments) Always verify allowable costs, matching requirements, and funding caps directly in the sponsor documentation.
The current target date is rolling deadlines or periodic funding windows. Build your timeline backwards from this date to cover registrations, approvals, attachments, and final submission checks.
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Requirements vary by sponsor, but typically include a project narrative, budget justification, organizational capability statement, and key personnel CVs. Check the official notice for the complete list of required attachments.
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