Empowering Entrepreneurs. Building Inclusive Economies.

Founded in 2019 as Rock County Jumpstart, Jumpstart South Central Wisconsin quickly became a driving force in empowering underrepresented business owners. Now operating as an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we are expanding our impact beyond Rock County to serve entrepreneurs across Rock, Green, Jefferson, and Walworth Counties.

Our mission remains rooted in advancing equity through innovation, education, and collaboration. By bridging gaps in access to funding, technical skills, and networks, we help transform ideas into thriving enterprises that fuel regional economic growth.

Our work is structured around three core pillars: entrepreneurship development, technology integration through the Tech Tank initiative, and nonprofit capacity building. We are dedicated to expanding opportunity for business owners who have historically had the lowest levels of employer firm participation.

We're proud of the entrepreneurs who have come through our programs and built thriving businesses in our community. Our highlighted graduates include:

• Denise Davidson — The Micah Project
• Paquita Reddish — Blessed Divine Creations
• Veronica Herford — Galleria Eclectic
• Marcellous Riley — Riley's Handyman Services
• Desmond Haney — Mainstream Electric
• Lester Grace Jr. — Backyard Barbecue

These entrepreneurs represent the heart of what Jumpstart does — helping real people build real businesses that strengthen our communities.