The Water Council’s transformative impact

Milwaukee’s position as a leader in water technology has been significantly influenced by The Water Council, a nonprofit organization launched in 2009 that is dedicated to fostering innovation and partnerships within the global water sector. With roots tracing back to the region’s historical water usage in brewing, food processing, and tanneries, Milwaukee has become a hub for cutting-edge water technologies, making The Water Council a central figure in driving the local economy forward.

In October, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced that The Water Council was selected for a Regional Innovation Cluster Award of $2.5 million. This prestigious five-year award builds on the foundation laid a decade ago and underscores Milwaukee’s position as one of the nation’s most mature water technology clusters.

“This recognition by the SBA affirms the undeniable value proposition we offer to the industry. We can expand our programming and support even more companies, including those from overseas and minority- and women-owned businesses,” said Karen Frost, The Water Council’s vice president of economic development and innovation.

Through this award, the organization will enhance its BREW 2.0 Post-Accelerator for late-stage startups, as well as customized resources for both domestic and international water technology businesses, like specialized support for foreign direct investment prospects, capacity-building, and access to new market resources.

“Never has there been a time in recent history that water is a more important topic or threat,” said Scott Beightol, The Water Council chairman. “The companies, startups, and scale-ups we are working with today are the problem solvers for these pressing issues.”

Supporting Innovation and Attracting Global Companies

The Water Council plays a critical role in supporting startups and international businesses seeking to innovate in the water tech space. These initiatives not only strengthen the local economy but also open doors for companies to establish a foothold in the U.S.

“We can be that door opener to new ideas and new technology… We’re able to create that full-circle moment for companies, helping them quantify their water risks and then find solutions through our network of innovators,” Frost said.

One recent example is GKinetic Energy, an Irish company that has established a presence in Milwaukee’s Global Water Center. Frost explained how the organization’s network makes Milwaukee a desirable location for international companies: “If they’re going to develop a footprint in the U.S., why not Milwaukee? The support and connectivity we offer are unparalleled.”

Over the past decade, The Water Council has continuously refined its approach, building an ecosystem that supports innovation while strengthening Milwaukee’s economy. Frost reflected on this journey, expressing her excitement for what lies ahead: “We’ve honed our craft over time. This new grant will allow us to not only grow our current programs but also make them even better.”

With The Water Council at the helm, Milwaukee is poised to remain a global leader in water technology, attracting companies and innovators eager to tap into Milwaukee’s rich resources and expertise.