The Wisconsin Technology Council announced today that the annual Wisconsin Governor’s Business Plan Contest will shift its application window from winter to spring, creating a refreshed experience designed to better serve entrepreneurs statewide.
While the contest has traditionally opened for entries in mid-December with a Jan. 31 deadline, the next competition cycle will instead begin in the spring of 2026. Organizers emphasized that the contest is very much moving forward, with more features, more support for founders and more ways to get involved.
“We want to ensure entrepreneurs have the time, resources and energy they need to put their best ideas forward,” said Maggie Brickerman, president of the Wisconsin Technology Council. “This shift gives us the opportunity to roll out new offerings that will make the contest even more engaging, valuable and accessible.”
The spring launch will coincide with a slate of updates designed to expand participation and strengthen the statewide entrepreneurial pipeline. Planned enhancements include:
- More prize opportunities, including expanded cash and service awards;
- Stronger connections with investors through curated meetings and feedback sessions;
- New educational programming, including workshops, founder tools and more;
- A refreshed contest structure, aimed at streamlining the experience for contestants; and
- An updated event location and format, designed to elevate finalist presentations and networking.
These updates build on the contest’s long track record of success. Since its inception in 2004, the Governor’s Business Plan Contest has received more than 4,958 entries and awarded about $3 million in cash and in-kind prizes to emerging companies helping many of them grow, hire and attract private investment. Founders, innovators and students are encouraged to stay tuned for the official spring launch date.
The Governor’s Business Plan Contest remains free to enter and open to Wisconsin residents 18 and older, as well as businesses and teams planning to expand or grow in Wisconsin. To learn more, visit govsbizplancontest.com
