FOR-M Tech Startup Incubator Launches 10th Cohort as It Marks Its 5th Year

This fall, MKE Tech Hub Coalition’s FOR-M Tech Startup Incubator is celebrating a significant milestone as it kicks off its 10th cohort on September 16th. Established in the fall of 2019, the incubator program has played a crucial role in fostering Milwaukee’s tech startup ecosystem over the past five years.

Since its inception, more than 300 founders have participated in the FOR-M program, benefiting from the support of over 150 coaches. These coaches provide valuable feedback, advice, and connections, helping early-stage founders navigate the complexities of starting and growing a tech-based business.

Designed to accommodate working adults, the six-week program is offered free of charge and features a hybrid schedule of in-person and virtual sessions. The incubator is open to emerging businesses at any stage and focuses on providing an “on-ramp” to the Milwaukee tech startup ecosystem.

Program facilitators Joe Poeschl of MKE Tech Hub Coalition and Maggie Fernandes of We Pivot pride themselves on creating a supportive and inclusive environment where founders can explore their first and next steps authentically.

Fernandes emphasized the program’s focus on the individual behind the idea, stating, “FOR-M always prioritizes the founder above the idea. Our intention is to help our founders grow that entrepreneurial skill set that they can apply to their current idea, any future ideas, or in their current careers.”

“FOR-M supports our founders in building community and connection,” added Poeschl. “We all know that the founder journey can be a lonely one, but being a part of FOR-M allows founders to connect with each other as well as the broader Milwaukee startup community.”

Beyond mentorship and guidance, MKE Tech Hub Coalition’s FOR-M program provides financial support to help founders develop their businesses. Program graduates are eligible to apply for a $10,000 grant, and the MKE Tech Hub is also offering startups low-interest loans.

In response to the challenges many early-stage founders face—particularly those unable to access “friends and family” funding or who are too early for angel investment—FOR-M has addressed this gap by awarding over $400,000 in grants and $120,000 in low-interest loans. These funds are made possible through support from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) and Bader Philanthropies.

FOR-M’s commitment to supporting emerging businesses extends beyond the six-week program.

To further strengthen the Milwaukee tech ecosystem and foster innovation and engagement in the community, FOR-M has partnered with CSA Partners, Ward4, Midwest Founders Community, We Pivot, and MKEStartup.News to launch Founders Day. This initiative has brought together over 275 local founders and mentors for monthly coworking, mentorship, and networking events.

As the FOR-M Tech Startup Incubator enters its fifth year, it continues to provide critical support for early-stage founders, fostering innovation and community in Milwaukee’s growing tech ecosystem.

To learn more about the FOR-M program or to apply for the fall cohort, click here.