The University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay Foundation have partnered with global venture firm and startup accelerator gener8tor to launch the inaugural gBETA UW-Green Bay pre-accelerator program. The initiative is designed to support early-stage entrepreneurs across Northeast Wisconsin, with a focus on building a stronger regional innovation ecosystem.
The seven-week accelerator will be offered free of charge to participating founders and will not require companies to relinquish equity. Participants will receive personalized coaching, mentorship, and access to gener8tor’s national network of investors and corporate partners. The program is intended to help startups establish traction and prepare for follow-on accelerator programs and potential fundraising opportunities.
The program will recruit founders from Brown County and the broader Northeast Wisconsin region, while also welcoming UW-Green Bay alumni located outside the area who are building new ventures. The curriculum will align with gener8tor’s global gBETA pre-accelerator framework, which focuses on offering high-impact guidance to startups of all industry backgrounds.
The initiative comes as UW-Green Bay works to deepen its role as a driver of innovation, local economic development, and experiential learning. The university views the accelerator as part of a broader effort to support entrepreneurial growth in the region, expand business creation, and increase opportunities for students to engage with real-world business formation.
Brown County leadership has highlighted the importance of providing spaces and support for entrepreneurs to develop and scale ideas locally. The project aligns with the progress being made at Phoenix Innovation Park, which aims to serve as a hub for research, commercial activity, and business incubation.
The first gBETA UW-Green Bay cohort will begin on October 28, with applications opening immediately. Entrepreneurs interested in applying are directed to the gener8tor website. Emma Snyder has been appointed as the first Program Manager and will serve as the point of contact for founders considering participation.
KEY QUOTES:
“Collaboration with gener8tor allows us to create new opportunities for entrepreneurs right here in Northeast Wisconsin. The partnership highlights how regional comprehensive universities can provide tremendous economic value to our communities while providing experiential learning for UW-Green Bay students and anyone in the region who wants to grow their ideas and companies.”
Michael Alexander, Chancellor, UW-Green Bay
“As the Phoenix Innovation Park continues to take shape it is essential we begin the process of creating an environment for aspiring entrepreneurs to recognize our university is a place that welcomes and encourages their presence. This is another step in our journey of cementing our university as a space for business startups and an incubator for ideas to commercialization.”
Troy Streckenbach, Brown County Executive
“Special thank you to WEDC, Brown County and Associated Bank for their investment to kickstart this program. Cultivating an entrepreneurial ecosystem will incubate and drive growth, allowing the next generation of businesses to flourish in the region.”
Alan Peters, Economic Development Executive, UW-Green Bay
