KENOSHA, Wis. (February 20, 2026) – The Kenosha Innovation Center (KIC) hosted a vibrant Celebration of the Lunar New Year: KICback Social Wednesday evening, in collaboration with the Wisconsin Chinese Chamber of Commerce (WCCC). The event brought together local entrepreneurs, community leaders, and residents to honor cultural traditions while fostering professional connections.
Kelly Armstrong, President of the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood, shared: “This KICback Social beautifully reflects what the Kenosha Innovation Center is all about; bringing people together across cultures, industries, and ideas. Celebrating Lunar New Year alongside our partners at the Wisconsin Chinese Chamber of Commerce highlights how collaboration strengthens our innovation ecosystem and creates meaningful connections that move our community forward. “
During the gathering, guests learned about the mission of the Wisconsin Chinese Chamber of Commerce: to advance the success of a diverse community by providing tailored resources, mentorship, and strategic connections. The event highlighted the WCCC’s dedication to fostering a united business community that drives innovation through diversity.
Ziming Wu, CEO of the Wisconsin Chinese Chamber of Commerce, reflected on the collaboration:
“Co-hosting this event with the Kenosha Innovation Center was especially meaningful, as it highlighted the power of collaboration and innovation. We hope guests left feeling connected to new opportunities, strong relationships, and a shared commitment to the wellbeing and health of the next generation. By bringing businesses, organizations, and community leaders together, we are also helping to build stronger, more resilient communities. The Wisconsin Chinese Chamber of Commerce is proud to serve as a bridge between businesses and communities, supporting inclusive economic development across Wisconsin.”
The success of the evening demonstrated the Center’s commitment to ensuring that all individuals can thrive within an ever-changing entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The event, which took place on February 18th, featured robust networking opportunities and a presentation by Aaron Nodolf, Michael Best, designed to empower local startups.
- A Traditional Lion Dance performed by the Shaolin Center to bring good fortune and energy to the new year.
- A Vocal Performance by singer Stephanie Fong.
- A Dance Performance by Dian Novita.
Attendees also enjoyed a specialized Lunar New Year menu curated by Chef Alex of Ono, providing a flavorful culinary backdrop to the night’s festivities.
About the KICback Social:
KICback Social is a new monthly event at the Kenosha Innovation Center (KIC) showcasing innovation and entrepreneurship across our region.
About the Kenosha Innovation Center (KIC)
The Kenosha Innovation Center is a flagship facility within the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood focused on entrepreneurship, innovation, and community-driven economic development. The Center provides founders with workspace, mentorship, programming, and pathways to growth—supporting the next generation of startups in the region.
About the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood
The Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood, Inc., is a non-profit organization led by a volunteer board of directors composed of local and regional leaders dedicated to fostering economic recovery, improving economic sustainability and resiliency, and ensuring equitable community access to prosperity through the development of the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood (KIN).
The KIN is the revitalization and transformation of 107 acres of vacant land in the heart of Kenosha as a collaborative, mixed-use project that is bringing the community together to define and deliver a regional destination with sustainable, innovation-focused office, medical, educational, commercial, and residential space that meets the unique needs of neighbors, the broader Kenosha community, visitors, and end-users. Learn more about the Kenosha Innovation Neighborhood at www.innovatekin.org.
