| SHEBOYGAN, WI – The Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) hosted the Wisconsin Startup World Cup Pitch Contest on Monday, October 19, at the Stefanie Weill Center in Sheboygan, bringing together entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community supporters to celebrate innovation and entrepreneurship across Wisconsin. The contest gave entrepreneurs the opportunity to pitch their business ideas to a panel of judges, introduce their products to attendees, and compete for a place at the Startup World Cup Global Finals in San Francisco, CA, where the winner will have the chance to compete for a $1 million investment prize. Louis Structures LLC Wins First Place Louis Structures, LLC, (louisstructures.com) represented by Benjamin Louis Horvat, earned first place in the competition and qualifies to advance to the Startup World Cup Global Finals in San Francisco. There, Benjamin will represent Wisconsin and compete alongside fellow startups from around the world for the opportunity to win the $1 million grand prize. “Congratulations to Benjamin Louis Horvat and Louis Structures LLC on earning first place and advancing to the Global Finals in San Francisco, and to all the entrepreneurs who shared their ideas with us,” said Justin Vannieuwenhoven, Chairman of the Innovation Council. Food FiXR (foodfixr.com), represented by Grace Hameister, received the People’s Choice Award, as voted on by event attendees. The pitch contest highlighted the innovative ideas and entrepreneurial talent emerging throughout Wisconsin while providing founders with an opportunity to gain exposure, build connections, and pursue future growth. “Entrepreneurs play an important role in strengthening our economy, creating jobs, and bringing new and inspiring ideas to life,” said Ray York, Business Counselor for the SCEDC and Small Business Development Center at UW-Green Bay. “The Startup World Cup Pitch Contest gives founders an opportunity to share their ideas and connect with potential supporters.” Industry Leaders Serve as JudgesThe SCEDC extends a sincere appreciation to the five judges who shared their time and expertise to evaluate the pitches and support participating entrepreneurs: Chris Kennedy, UMB Bank Barb LaMue, Pebble Rock Partners LLC Jordan Koene, Previsible Erik Falck, Johnsonville Sausage Glenn Gottfried, South Branch Capital Partners LLC Their professional experience and insights helped make the pitch contest a valuable opportunity for participating founders. Thank You to Our Sponsors We would also like to thank the sponsors whose support helped make the event possible. Special thanks to Dave TeLindert of Advantage Prototype Systems in Sheboygan Falls, WI, for serving as the evening’s beverage sponsor. Additional sponsorships included: Associated Bank New North Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation (WEDC) The SCEDC extends its sincere appreciation to Startup World Cup and Pegasus Tech Ventures for their partnership and support in bringing this international competition to Sheboygan County. As organizers of the Startup World Cup and its Global Grand Finale, they provide entrepreneurs with an incredible opportunity to showcase their innovations, connect with investors, and compete on a global stage. Finally, the SCEDC would like to thank all participating entrepreneurs, attendees, and community partners who helped make this year’s competition a success. Together, we are building a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem and creating opportunities for Wisconsin startups to grow, innovate, and compete on the world stage. ## About the Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC)The Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation works to strengthen the economic vitality of Sheboygan County by supporting business growth and expansion, entrepreneurship, housing development, talent attraction, and community investment. Through collaboration with public- and private-sector partners, SCEDC helps create opportunities for businesses, residents, and communities throughout the county.For more information, visit www.sheboygancountyedc.com |
 |
 |
 |
