Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the world, yet many children are learning about the technology through unguided use. Milwaukee-based startup AI Adventure, founded in 2025 by Anu Höysniemi, aims to change that by introducing elementary-age students to artificial intelligence through interactive games, storytelling and hands-on activities. Höysniemi launched the company after seeing firsthand how quickly … AI Adventure helps kids learn AI skills
As part of MKEStartup.News’ exploration of Wisconsin’s regional startup ecosystems, we’re spotlighting standout innovators from the New North region this week. About 1 in 8 women in the U.S. report symptoms of postpartum depression (PPD), translating to over 460,000 mothers each year. Less known is that 1 in 10 dads experience PPD. Behind these statistics … Auvia aims to close maternal mental health gaps with voice-based support
When UW-Milwaukee graduate Kayla Lokker first imagined a better way to fasten jewelry, she was a junior taking an entrepreneurship class. Three years later, her invention, the Easy Clasp, a retractable jewelry fastener designed for people with limited mobility, is officially on the market through her company, Easy Wear Jewelry. The launch marks the culmination … Easy Wear Jewelry launches, bringing student innovation to the market
Portable urinals are an essential part of patient care, helping those with limited mobility, incontinence, or long-term health challenges maintain dignity and independence. Yet too often the urinals leak, or scrape delicate skin, creating new problems for patients and healthcare providers. One Milwaukee-area company has a solution to this problem and is working to reintroduce … Ladyz by Design relaunches patented Comfort Urinal
Assessed Intelligence, founded by Dr. Joshua Scarpino, Katie Grillaert, and Graeme Rudd, has quickly grown into a 38-member global team focused on secure and ethical artificial intelligence. With hubs across the country and its largest presence in Wisconsin, the company provides AI governance, cybersecurity, and compliance solutions for high-risk sectors including healthcare, finance, education, and … Assessed Intelligence builds responsible AI from WI hub
When disaster strikes a home, the path from insurance claim to completed repair can be stressful and confusing. Grafton now has a growing insurtech business helping to ease that process. Co-founded by Christie Downs and Kathryn Wood, handdii is a women-founded and led company that connects homeowners, insurers, and local contractors through a curated platform … handdii expands contractor network in Wisconsin
In our digital age dominated by automation and isolation, Wisconsin-based startup The Grand is offering something radically human: connection. The company is a coaching and community platform designed to help people navigate major life and work transitions through structured reflection, peer support, and executive coaching. Co-founded in 2019 by Anita Hossain and Rei Wang, The … The Grand builds community & combats isolation
Comfyist founder Amy Fallucca knows her customers—because many of them come back for more. Since launching her Milwaukee-based apparel company in 2021, Fallucca has maintained a clear vision: create high-quality, thoughtfully constructed athleisure that women want to wear. The company’s flagship product is a uniquely designed camisole that offers integrated, rather than removable, bra cups … Comfyist continues steady growth
Founder Kayla Lokker’s mission to make jewelry easier to wear is garnering attention—and real traction. The recent UW-Milwaukee graduate is the inventor of Easy Clasp, a retractable jewelry attachment that simplifies fastening necklaces, especially for people with mobility or dexterity challenges. What started as a classroom idea is now a patented product nearing its first … Easy Clasp heads to market after TV win and patent approval
Karen Laing founded Okkanti in 2022 to address deep gaps in maternal health care and support. Now participating in the Spring 2025 Techstars Columbus accelerator, a highly competitive program that accepts only 1% of applicants, Laing is bringing her bold vision to a national stage. MKEStartup.News (MSUN) caught up with Laing to learn more about … Okkanti joins Techstars