Startup Hub Celebrates 20 Years of Fueling Entrepreneurial Growth in Northeast Wisconsin
For two decades, the Startup Hub at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) has been a cornerstone for aspiring entrepreneurs in Northeast Wisconsin, providing critical resources and support to launch and grow their ventures. The Greater Green Bay Chamber recently marked this significant milestone with an event celebrating the Hub’s 20th anniversary, reflecting on its impactful journey and outlining future aspirations.
Shane Kanneberg, director of entrepreneurship and startups for the Greater Green Bay Chamber, expressed his satisfaction with the Hub’s enduring success. “I’d say it’s been very successful,” Kanneberg stated, highlighting the substantial contributions the facility has made to the region’s economic landscape.
Originally established in December 2005 as the Business Assistance Center, the Startup Hub was born from a collaborative partnership between the Greater Green Bay Chamber and NWTC. This alliance has since empowered hundreds of entrepreneurs, offering them the guidance and resources necessary to develop their businesses and eventually operate independently within the community.
Over its 20-year history, the Startup Hub has hosted a diverse array of businesses, with 50 companies representing various industries having operated within its walls as of 2025. This dynamic environment fosters innovation and collaboration, creating a fertile ground for new ideas to take root and flourish.
The demand for the Startup Hub’s services continues to grow, underscoring its vital role in the regional entrepreneurial ecosystem. “In our entrepreneurial ecosystem, we have over 150 inquiries a year, and that number is growing,” Kanneberg noted. This consistent interest reflects the ongoing need for accessible support for individuals looking to turn their business concepts into reality.
A Comprehensive Facility for Business Incubation
The Startup Hub boasts an impressive 50,000 square feet of dedicated space, meticulously configured to meet the diverse needs of its tenants. The facility offers a range of professional office suites, providing a conducive environment for administrative tasks and client meetings.
Beyond traditional office spaces, the Hub also includes:
- Manufacturing Bays: Equipped to support businesses involved in product development, prototyping, and light manufacturing.
- Podcast Studio: A modern amenity designed to help entrepreneurs create engaging audio content to promote their brands and connect with wider audiences.
- Virtual Meeting Spaces: Facilitating seamless communication and collaboration with remote teams, clients, and partners.
This comprehensive infrastructure ensures that businesses at various stages of development have access to the physical and technological resources they require to succeed.
The Incubator Advantage: Boosting Survival Rates
The impact of incubator programs like the Startup Hub on business longevity is significant. According to officials, businesses that launch and operate within an incubator setting have a remarkable 90% chance of surviving for more than five years. This statistic stands in stark contrast to the approximately 50% survival rate for businesses that do not receive such specialized support.
This dramatic difference highlights the invaluable role of the Startup Hub in mitigating the risks associated with starting a new venture. The structured environment, access to mentorship, and shared resources provide a critical safety net and accelerate the learning curve for nascent entrepreneurs.
Looking Ahead: Strengthening the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
The Greater Green Bay Chamber remains committed to fostering a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem in Northeast Wisconsin. Kanneberg articulated a clear vision for the future, stating, “We would love to continue to grow our network of founders, also resource providers. Really strengthening our entrepreneurial ecosystem in Northeast Wisconsin. We’d love to see more programming heading into 2026.”
To further support its tenants and encourage deeper engagement with the local business community, the Chamber has announced a new initiative for the upcoming year. In 2026, all Startup Hub tenants will receive a complimentary annual Chamber membership for their first five years occupying space within the Hub. This commitment aims to:
- Expand Networks: Providing entrepreneurs with direct access to the Chamber’s extensive network of businesses and professionals.
- Enhance Connectivity: Facilitating greater integration of new businesses into the broader Greater Green Bay business landscape.
- Foster Collaboration: Encouraging partnerships and knowledge sharing among Chamber members and Startup Hub tenants.
This proactive approach underscores the Chamber’s dedication to not only incubating new businesses but also ensuring their long-term success and contribution to the regional economy.
