Job creation through capital donation

BrightStar invests in the future of Wisconsin!

BrightStar Wisconsin Foundation, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) organization committed to getting capital to Wisconsin entrepreneurs. Why? They are the most efficient and effective creators of jobs, talent, innovation, and value that our state has. The proven model is simple: we accept donations and then use those funds to make equity investments into Wisconsin early-stage tech companies. When these investments are successful, returns are re-deployed into more entrepreneurs in our great state.

“It’s not too strong a statement to say that the kind of State that Wisconsin becomes will depend upon efforts such as BrightStar.”

Journal/Sentinel Editorial Board

“My BrightStar ROI is seeing dozens of innovative Wisconsin start-ups get funded and creating thousands of quality jobs throughout our state …. exactly what BrightStar promised 10 years ago.”

Ted Kellner, Donor

“Brightstar invests wisely, operates with integrity, and adds tremendous value to startups as well as investors.”

Matthew Kee, Manager, Tundra Angels

70+

Tech startup investments

$1.5 B+

Follow-on capital received by portfolio companies after BrightStar investment

1,500+

Jobs created by portfolio companies

“We grew from an idea to the largest rewards app in the country and employ over 800 incredibly skilled people in under 10 years. I believe that Fetch’s founders, employees, and investors will start and fund dozens of new tech businesses in Wisconsin following the
company’s success. This is how ecosystems develop and BrightStar will be there to help seed these new businesses like they were for us.”

Wes Schroll, CEO, Fetch Rewards

“BrightStar was the first investment group to support us with capital. We showed proof of concept and then were able to raise over $1.5MM in new investment, build out a lab, advance exciting corporate relationships, and take the team to over 10 skilled employees. We intend to make Wisconsin the hub for domestically sourced sustainable battery materials in the U.S. and are appreciative of BrightStar’s efforts in the beginning to help make it happen.”

Carol Hirschmugl, CEO, COnovate

“I have seen firsthand how BrightStar leverages its venture philanthropy model to launch businesses and create tech jobs throughout the state. As the President of the Judd S. Alexander Foundation and an active participant in business development in Central Wisconsin, I can say that we are a proud donor and supporter of BrightStar Wisconsin and its mission. BrightStar is an incredible asset for our state!”

Gary Freels, Donor

Entrepreneurs

We’re eager to see your ideas succeed. BrightStar Wisconsin can help you launch and scale.

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Donors

Investment earnings are reinvested again and again, allowing your donation to live forever.

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Our Portfolio

BrightStar has a long track record of investing in Wisconsin innovation to create jobs.

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What’s Your Big Idea?

Do you have a high-growth potential startup or idea in Wisconsin? Please register your business with BrightStar Wisconsin at the following link to start the evaluation process.

Submit Your Idea

GeneralInfo@brightstarwi.org

414-224-6000

710 N. Plankinton Ave., Ste. 340
Milwaukee, WI 53203