WI Gov’s BPC semi-finalists announced

The semi-finalists in the 2025 Wisconsin Governor’s Business Plan Contest, presented by the Wisconsin Technology Council have been announced.

Fifty-two contestants emerged in first-round competition involving an independent panel of about 70 judges organized through the Wisconsin Technology Council and its programs, the Tech Council Innovation Network and the Tech Council Investor Networks. There were 153 first-round entries spread over four categories.

The semi-finalists represent those same four categories: advanced manufacturing (12), business services (13), information technology (13) and life sciences (14). Within those broad groups, plans range from novel metal separation technologies to turning dairy waste into sugars; from PFAS filtration for municipal water systems to new medical tests, treatments and devices; and artificial intelligence solutions for a variety of uses.

“Trends reflected in the top 52 entries match up well with Wisconsin’s traditional and emerging strengths,” said Gary Frings, chairman of the Tech Council. “Good ideas come from all high-growth sectors of the economy and from all corners of the state.”

The top dozen contestants will give live presentations at the annual Wisconsin Entrepreneurs’ Conference June 4 in Madison. Category winners, as well as the 2025 Grand Prize Winner, will be announced June 5 during the conference.

Sponsors are contributing cash, office space, legal assistance, accounting, marketing, social media management and more. About $2.9 million in cash and in-kind prizes have been awarded over time.