We are thrilled to announce that the Lubar Entrepreneurship Center (LEC) will not only host our annual UW-Milwaukee Wisconsin Big Idea Qualifier (WBIQ), but this year we will also be hosting the statewide WiSys Big Idea Tournament. Our very own 51ÁÔĆć student, Mitchelle Lyle, took first-place at both the 51ÁÔĆć qualifier and the with her innovative venture, . Another UW-Milwaukee student, Kayla Lokker, received the People’s Choice Award and $250 for her business, , at the .
The WiSys Big Idea Tournament is a renowned statewide entrepreneurship competition open to undergraduate and graduate students from University of Wisconsin schools (excluding UW-Madison). It offers lean startup training, business mentorship, and the chance to win seed funding.
Join Us To Witness Innovation In Action
Want to connect with innovative thinkers and industry professionals without pitching? Join us to:
Network with 51ÁÔĆć’s emerging entrepreneurs
Meet judges and mentors from Milwaukee’s business community
Discover cutting-edge ideas from across campus
Support 51ÁÔĆć’s innovation ecosystem
Interested in Pitching at The 51ÁÔĆć Big Idea Qualifier?
Thank you for your interest in the Wisconsin Big Idea Qualifier! Unfortunately, we have reached the submission limit and are no longer accepting entries at this time.
You may still have a chance to participate in the statewide tournament by submitting an At-Large Bid by March 30, 2025 (instructions on the official ).
We appreciate your enthusiasm for innovation and hope to see you at future events!
Join us for an epic Geek Week Game Night where the entire Lubar Entrepreneurship Center transforms into a hub of classic board games, card games, and more! Whether you’re a seasoned strategist or just looking to have some fun, this event is the perfect opportunity to connect, compete, and unwind. Bring your friends, make new ones, and let the games begin! Snacks and refreshments will be provided.
Event Details
Date: March 4 Time: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM Location: 51ÁÔĆć Lubar Entrepreneurship Center
RSVP for Game on at the LEC: Geek Week
Time as Your Greatest Asset: Prioritizing What Matters Most
Reflecting on Time
As we near the end of Q4, time has been a constant point of reflection. It’s one of the most fleeting, non-replaceable resources that we engage with. We cannot possess it nor hold on to it. Where money, you can always get back, once time is spent, it’s gone. But we can still use it wisely.
About halfway through 2024, I got the nagging feeling I wasn’t allocating my time properly. There was always something to balance; work, family, social life and hobbies all occurring at the same time and demanding my time. Even on my most productive workday, I knew I was sacrificing time for something else, something equally important. There was simply never enough time for everything! In that moment, when I felt the weight of missing out on the important things in life, with the weight of needing to do the things that would secure me living the life I desired, did I really sit down and take stock of my time. Here are some ways I’ve been able to redirect and feel like I’m about to work and play to my personal fulfilment.
Being Aware of Time
As we’ve heard referenced before, psychologist Nathaniel Branden infamous quote “the first step toward change is awareness.” To on how to use time wisely, I had to sit and reflect on where I was spending my time. Not only thinking but writing and visualizing so I could see. 8 hours of work, 1-hour of travel, 2 hours of meal planning, 3-hours of film study, not to mention everything in between. As with proper handling of money, budgeting time is crucial. To see where you can make improvements, you must first recognize your current patterns.
Prioritizing Time
“We all have the same 24-hours.” I’ve heard numerous times before, which is truly not the case if you’re sleeping the recommended 8-hours a night. So, how do we optimize those remaining 16 hours? Prioritize the important things and the necessities. Work, school, eating, resting… then allow the other non-immediate things to fill in. Many people use the to determine the urgent, non-urgent, important and non-important tasks in their lives, but there are many tools to help decide which tasks need to be done immediately, and which ones we can schedule later.
Routines
Creating a routine is putting everything on an automated schedule that allows you to ease through your day without feeling like something is left out. Just like your body getting naturally sleepy around 10pm with your central circadian clock, start aligning your day to have scheduled time for activities, without having to “make time” for it later. By having a framework for your day, you’re able to allocate time efficiently and eliminate the need to make decisions in real time. is known to impede the productive process. Having a of organizing your wardrobe for the week or planning your meals eliminated those tedious tasks from everyday and allow us to spend more time with the “big things.”
Daily, Weekly, Monthly Goals – Flexibility in unpredictable cases
What worked for me was establishing my goals on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. Surprisingly, exercising helped me the most in this area. Regular exercise not only by releasing feel-good chemicals, but it also highlights a great way to look at your goals. Understanding that you won’t gain those 20 pounds by tomorrow or hit that PR on your first run, you’re able to recognize that incremental wins are still important. Realizing that everything doesn’t have to get done today because you’ve planned for your progress. At the LEC we call it the “.” Realize that some goals can be done in a day, but give yourself space and realistic time for those goals that might take more than a few tries or more resources to attain.
Lastly, however you’re spending your time, whether it’s laying on the couch watching tv for 8 hours, spending time with loved ones, or working on a new idea, the most important part is being present. Living fully in the moment, not needing or wanting to be anywhere else and being content with what you have because you know you have allocated the proper time for it by prioritizing your goals. Free yourself from the guilt of “I should be…” and know you’re exactly where you need to be.
Diverse Ideas with 51ÁÔĆć Black Student Cultural Center
Join us at the Lubar Entrepreneurship Center for an inspiring conversation highlighting Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs in celebration of Black History Month. This special edition of our monthly entrepreneurship talks brings together local innovators to share their stories, challenges, and successes with 51ÁÔĆć students, faculty, and staff.
Discover how these entrepreneurs are shaping their industries, building community, and driving change. This event is part of LEC’s ongoing commitment to uplifting and supporting diverse voices in our local business ecosystem while fostering a dynamic, interdisciplinary network of student entrepreneurs. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate Black excellence in entrepreneurship!
Event Details
Date: February 18 Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Location: Lubar Entrepreneurship Center – Touchdown & Launch Space (203A)
RSVP for this event
LEC Open House: Meet the Team
Join us for the LEC Open House during the first week of the Spring semester! This event is the perfect opportunity to explore the Lubar Entrepreneurship Center (LEC) and discover the resources, programs, and support we offer to help you succeed. Meet our team, including our Entrepreneurs-in-Residence, Director, Program Manager, along with the rest of the team. Learn about the scholarships and opportunities available to you! Whether you’re looking for a space to innovate, guidance on your entrepreneurial journey, or a community to collaborate with, the LEC is here to support you. Enjoy free food and get a $1 coupon off coffee at our in-house Grind! We look forward to welcoming you and gathering your input to shape future programs that best serve your needs.
Event Details
Date: January 23rd Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Location: Lubar Entrepreneurship Center – Innovation Commons (105)
RSVP for this event
AkkeNeel Talsma’s Initiative for Expecting Mothers
Dr. AkkeNeel Talsma and Maternity Metrix
Dr. AkkeNeel Talsma, a highly accomplished healthcare innovator and founder of , has dedicated her career to addressing the informational gaps faced by pregnant women. With a PhD in Nursing and an MS in Community Health Nursing from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Talsma brings decades of expertise to her work. Her latest creation, Maternity Metrix, is a web-based app designed to provide evidence-based health guidance in a format that is practical, inclusive, and accessible. Talsma’s approach is a blend of expertise, empathy, and collaboration, aimed at reducing the risks associated with pregnancy while empowering women and their families.
The development of Maternity Metrix reflects an unwavering commitment to listening to the needs of its users. Recognizing that traditional healthcare communication can often feel clinical and intimidating, Talsma and her team flipped the script. “We recreated the app from the perspective of pregnant women,” she explained, “not as nurses telling them what to do.”
User-Centric Design
To achieve this, the team gathered extensive feedback from key stakeholders, including doulas (women employed to provide guidance and support to a pregnant woman during labor), senior nursing students, and healthcare professionals. These insights helped shape the app’s simple and straightforward interface, tailored for a fourth to sixth-grade reading level and featuring intuitive graphics. The focus was on creating a tool that women could use easily and quickly, whether they were “in the parking lot of Taco Bell” or in remote areas with limited service.
The app’s content goes beyond basic pregnancy advice, addressing vital health challenges that can have long-term implications. It offers guidance on monitoring blood pressure, blood sugar, and anemia—common yet preventable complications during pregnancy. Additionally, it educates users on the risks associated with smoking, vaping, and marijuana use, debunking myths about the safety of natural or herbal substances.
Addressing Preterm Births
At its core, Maternity Metrix aims to reduce preterm births, which Talsma identifies as a pressing issue. “Preterm births aren’t just a health challenge; they’re a financial burden,” she said, noting the annual $400 million Wisconsin spends on addressing preterm birth complications. By equipping women with accessible and actionable health information, the app seeks to improve maternal outcomes, reduce Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) admissions (care for premature and critically ill newborns), and alleviate the emotional and financial toll on families.
The success of Maternity Metrix is rooted in its strong partnerships with initial funding from multiple donor funds including the Raymond and Bernice Eschenburg Fund; the Mr. and Mrs. William A. Johnson Fund; and the Alma Smith Wright Fund. The 51ÁÔĆć Lubar Entrepreneurship Center (LEC) offered space and resources for brainstorming and development. The further supported the project with grants that enabled the transition from concept to reality.
Photo courtesy of Isaac Taylor
Community Impact and Health Education
Dr. Talsma’s work also extends deeply into community engagement. Collaborations with African American church health ministries and Promotores de Salud have been instrumental in adapting the app to serve diverse populations. These partnerships have also facilitated the creation of a Spanish version of the app, broadening its accessibility and impact.
One of the most exciting developments in the pipeline is the integration of telehealth functionality. This feature will allow community healthcare workers and doulas to connect with pregnant women securely through video calls, enabling consistent support and personalized guidance. “With this grant, we’re reaching out to community organizations to adopt Maternity Metrix and incorporate it into their programs,” Talsma shared.
The app’s design also supports group education. Talsma envisions it being used as a curriculum tool for doulas and non-licensed providers, helping them deliver structured and effective health education. This adaptability ensures that Maternity Metrix can meet the varied needs of women across different settings and circumstances.
Future Innovations and Accessibility
Dr. Talsma’s initiative is more than just a technological solution, it’s a testament to the power of innovation to drive social good. By addressing healthcare inequities and making critical information accessible, Maternity Metrix has the potential to transform how expectant mothers approach their pregnancies.
“This project isn’t just about an app … It’s about contributing to community health, supporting families, and creating positive environments for mothers and children.“
Dr. AkeeNeel Talsma
As the app continues to expand its reach, Talsma invites 51ÁÔĆć students and faculty to join her in exploring the intersections of innovation, healthcare, and community impact. Her work serves as a powerful reminder of the profound change that can occur when expertise is combined with a commitment to serving others.
With its focus on simplicity, inclusivity, and actionable health guidance, is poised to become a cornerstone of accessible healthcare for families across Wisconsin—and beyond.
Written by LEC Innovation Intern, Nikko Javier. !
Welcome LEC’s Newest Innovation Interns!
Introducing Our Innovation Interns
Welcome to the exciting world of innovation at the Lubar Entrepreneurship Center! We’re thrilled to introduce our newest Innovation Interns: Samantha Sarenac, Nikko Javier, and Tristan Jarvey. These dynamic individuals bring a diverse array of talents, experiences, and passions to our team, promising to infuse fresh perspectives and creative energy into our projects.
From Samantha’s international marketing aspirations and artistic flair to Nikko’s global business acumen and leadership prowess, and Tristan’s unique blend of psychology, computer science, and military experience, this trio embodies the interdisciplinary spirit that drives innovation. Join us as we embark on a journey of creativity, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial discovery with these remarkable interns.
Learn more about each of our newest interns below!
Meet Samantha
Samantha is a current undergraduate student studying Marketing and Spanish, with a certificate in International Business. As a Milwaukee native, she loves to explore the city and all the opportunities Milwaukee has to offer. An avid lover of the arts, including music, theatre, and dance, she has become a proud member of . Samantha hopes to study abroad in Spain one day and work on promotional campaigns with global companies or entertainment agencies.
Fun fact: Samantha’s love of music has taken her to national levels as a participant in the 2023 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. When she is not traveling or performing, you will often see her downtown at the Panther Arena cheering on her favorite sports team, the Milwaukee Admirals.
Meet Nikko
Nikko is a first-year undergraduate at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, where he is pursuing a degree in finance with the intent to complement his studies with a certificate in international business. Raised in Wrigleyville, Illinois, Nikko’s life has been shaped by diverse experiences, including a few years living abroad that broadened his worldview and adaptability. After returning to the U.S., he completed high school in Wisconsin, where he cultivated a strong foundation in academics, leadership, and athletics.
Beyond his academic pursuits, Nikko is no stranger to leadership and high-level competition. He has held roles as a sports head coach, applying his skills in mentoring and strategic thinking, and he has a rich background in business through his involvement with . His achievements include winning 1st place at the Wisconsin State Career Development Conference, which highlighted his proficiency in business analysis and presentation.
Meet Tristan
Tristan is an undergraduate Computer Science student at 51ÁÔĆć, having previously earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology in December 2022. As an innovation intern at the LEC, he primarily focuses on the LEC website and newsletter.
With over eight years of professional experience across eight industries, Tristan has honed his skills in creative problem-solving, constructive persistence, and continuous improvement. His background includes six years of service in the Army Reserves as a Combat Engineer, completing his service as an E-5 squadron leader of an eight-member squad. During his service, Tristan mentored a high-performing squad member leading to their successful completion of the Army Special Forces Assessment & Selection.
Tristan’s areas of interest include software development (both back-end and front-end), artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and natural language processing (NLP). His passion for innovation is evident in his consistent efforts to enhance systems, methods, and ventures for greater efficiency.
Entrepreneurship runs in Tristan’s family, with his parents having founded multiple businesses ranging from hotel development to stereo console renovation and retail. This background, combined with his technical skills and diverse experience, fuels Tristan’s drive to create software and services that improve people’s long-term quality of life.
Fun Fact: Despite his thalassophobia turning oceans into liquid nightmares, Tristan has twice donned scuba diving gear and plunged into the “abyss.”
Connect with Our Innovation Interns!
Connect with our new interns on LinkedIn to stay updated on their innovative projects and insights (click their below image to view their LinkedIn profile)!
Wisconsin’s Ghostly Halloween Haunts
As entrepreneurs, we’re often told to embrace the unknown and venture into uncharted territories. In Milwaukee, some innovative business owners have taken this advice to heart, turning the city’s ghostly past into thriving enterprises. From speakeasies to haunted houses, these entrepreneurs have found unique ways to blend history, mystery, and commerce, creating experiences that captivate locals and tourists alike. Their stories serve as a reminder that with creativity and vision, even the most unconventional ideas can become successful ventures, echoing the spirit of innovation championed by the Lubar Entrepreneurship Center community.
Halloween in Brew City
October 31st. Halloween. A day shrouded in a crushed-velvet robe, clouded in mist and mystery. Spirits roam alleyways after rainstorms, and haunted hollows begin to howl as the lives of the undead and the living intermingle once more. Claims of the paranormal and supernatural have always been a vital piece of our legacy. From stories of Loch Ness monsters to wild witch hunts and vengeful spirits who roam rivers, these tales have lived on for thousands of years. And while some proclaim these stories as hoaxes, during the month of October, they pique interest across the world. Lucky for Milwaukee residents, these mysterious encounters are and continue to influence businesses today. Therefore, with Halloween soon approaching, we want to shed light on a few of Milwaukee’s most haunt-worthy businesses.
Photos courtesy of Shaker’s Cigar Bar
Shaker’s Cigar Bar and Speakeasy
One of the only places where past and present waltz in harmony within the modern-day era, is renowned for its commitment to the unknown and embracing its mysterious history, earning it the affectionate title of “the Cultural Museum.” From being a to a frequented location for other notorious Milwaukee figures, Shaker’s is not afraid of its ominous past.
We had the opportunity to sit down with owner Bob Weiss to discuss his experiences with the paranormal and his ability to flourish with the unknown. We focused on his encounters within the walls of Shaker’s itself, including the apparitions known to frequent the building, such as the young girl Elizabeth, who inhabits the bathroom, and O’Conner, an Irish Confederate soldier who resides in the cellar. For those brave enough to spend a night in the upstairs brothel from the Prohibition era, Bob warned that only about 15% of visitors make it until dawn. He remarked, “Whatever it is that you’re afraid of, some things will prey upon that.”
The foundation of Shaker’s and Hangman Tours (a historic tour company owned by Bob with tours in Milwaukee, Savannah, and Los Angeles) is rooted in the belief that “You can’t forget about your past.” A poignant statement in our fast-developing world. Bob extends this sentiment well beyond the curated wood walls of the speakeasy as a world traveler dedicated to uncovering stories of the past— “the fabric of who we are”—and raising awareness for the beyond.
Despite its chilling history, Shaker’s ambiance is incredibly welcoming. Patrons laugh throughout the evening, converse with staff, and greet Bob, creating an unmistakable connection to the space. When I asked about what it takes to join Shaker’s staff, he noted that his 30-person onsite team must attend the ghost tours and spend time in the cellar alone before their first shift. Thanks to these pre-screenings, Bob has confidence in his staff, and turnover is low, adding to the almost familial bonds that fill the space ghosts do not occupy.
Overall, Bob assured us that the spirits are content, and with the relaxed, fun-loving energy of the location and clientele, it is easy to see why. Besides his testimony, my coworker and I were unnerved by a small door that opened and closed frequently during our stay despite no one appearing. But one should not just take our word for it; as Bob said, “If your eyes are open and you want to get something, you’ll get something.” Whether hoping to encounter the beyond or simply looking for a mature dining experience, is worth a visit no matter the season.
Photo courtesy of Fox6 Milwaukee
Novak Manor
While the is not haunted itself, thanks to the vision and hard work of Patty and Adam Novak, it transforms into a frightful sight throughout October. Despite a few challenges this past year, the Novaks are dedicated to supporting their community and providing a frightfully fun experience for all!
On Fridays and Saturdays from 6-10 PM, Novak Manor becomes a completely volunteer-run haunted house featuring jump scares, spooky decor, and scare actors. Admission is a minimum dollar donation, supporting and other West Allis community programs. This haunt includes an array of classic horrors like clowns and Michael Myers. To make the Halloween spirit accessible to all, they provide glow sticks to signify those who do not wish to be scared but still want to immerse themselves in the experience.
The Novaks’ dedication is evident and appreciated by the organizations they support. Their generosity as a seasonal, home-based nonprofit shows that, no matter the time of year or who you are, giving is always in season.
Milwaukee’s Haunted Ventures in the Spirit of Halloween
In Milwaukee, the entrepreneurial spirit thrives as innovative business owners transform the city’s haunted history into captivating experiences. Venues like and blend ghostly tales with modern entertainment, inviting locals and tourists alike to explore the unknown. As Halloween approaches, these unique businesses remind us that with creativity and vision, even the most unconventional ideas can flourish. Embracing both the eerie and the entrepreneurial, Milwaukee showcases how history and mystery can create a vibrant community spirit during this haunting season.
Written by LEC Innovation Intern, Samantha Sarenac.
A prototyping workshop with Director of 51ÁÔĆć Prototyping Center, Kyle Jansson
Why wait for the perfect moment or a big budget? In this hands-on Prototyping Workshop, you’ll learn how to experiment with your business idea right now, using the resources you already have. Discover practical strategies to quickly create prototypes, gather feedback, and refine your concept without needing huge upfront investment. You don’t need a million dollars to test a million-dollar idea—start building your future today with creative, actionable solutions!
Led by Kyle Jansson, Director of the 51ÁÔĆć Prototyping Center, you’ll discover how to bring your entrepreneurial vision to life using the tools and materials you already have.
Join us in the Lubar Entrepreneurship Center – AmFam Dream Studio (LECWC 107) on November 19th from 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM for this event.
Join us for an engaging info session about the Sustainability Collider at the Lubar Entrepreneurship Center on November 6th from 1:30 PM – 3:00 PM!
Why Attend this Info Session?
Discover Opportunities: Learn how you can get involved in tackling real-world sustainability challenges. Network with Innovators: Meet fellow students, faculty, and community members who share your passion for sustainability. Shape the Future: Be part of a collaborative effort to create impactful solutions that benefit our environment and community.
Who Should Come?
This session is perfect for anyone interested in sustainability—whether you’re a student, faculty member, or community advocate. If you’re eager to make a difference and explore innovative ideas, this is the event for you!
Don’t Miss Out!
Get inspired and find out how you can contribute to a sustainable future. Join us to learn more about the Sustainability Collider and how you can participate.
Join us for a night of frightful fun and spine-tingling excitement at our Haunted Hangout on Thursday, October 24th at the ! Get ready to unleash your inner ghost or goblin as we dive into two thrilling activities that promise to be a scream!
Put on your detective hats and prepare for a Spooky Pumpkin Hunt like no other! The LEC will shapeshift into a world where shadows dance and whispers of the unknown linger in the air, creating an enchanting ambiance. The atmosphere will be alive with a sense of mystery, inviting you to search every corner for hidden pumpkins, all while grooving to some Halloween tunes.
🎶 What to Expect:
Pumpkins: Find as many as you can!
Golden Bat: Keep your eyes peeled for a special golden bat! The lucky finder will snag an exclusive swag bag filled with treats and LEC merch.
Treats for All: Everyone who participates will receive delicious goodies—because what’s Halloween without some sweets?
Scooby Doo Movie Night 🍿 6:30 – 8:00 PM
After the hunt, settle in for an enchanting evening of cinema with our Movie Night! Grab your friends and enjoy a classic Halloween flick that’s sure to give you chills and thrills.
🎬 What’s Included:
Free Popcorn & Soda: Snack on popcorn and sip soda on us while you enjoy the show!
BYOB (Bring Your Own Blanket): Make yourself cozy! Bring your favorite blankets and pillows.
đź‘» Dress to Impress!
We encourage you to wear your spookiest, silliest, or most creative costume if you wish. Whether you’re a ghost, a witch, or a tired student, come join in on the Halloween spirit!
Get ready for an evening filled with laughter, treats, and a little bit of fright. Bring your friends and your best Halloween spirit — this is an event you won’t want to miss! We can’t wait to see you there!🕷️
