This annual program features speakers and panel discussions to foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, share best practices, recognize excellence, and shine the spotlight on SE Wisconsin’s innovators and entrepreneurs.

Learn from innovators and entrepreneurs powering the region’s future Join us as we recognize innovators and entrepreneurs taking the southeastern Wisconsin economy to the next level. This year’s award winners will share insights on how they built their businesses, developed new products and overcame challenges. Lifetime Achievement winner Jerry Jendusa will discuss what’s fueled his multiple entrepreneurial endeavors and lessons learned along the way. Regional Spirit winner Dean Amhaus will share insights on the collaboration that makes Milwaukee an international destination for water companies. The program continues with a breakout session on strategies for securing your innovation and financing options for entrepreneurs running growing companies. Attendees can connect with winners as the event concludes with a networking reception featuring cocktails & hors d’oeuvres.

Innovation Winners:

• Adam Aerospace Corp., Michael Anton Adam, CEO (1)
• Hydro-Thermal, Jim Zaiser, President and CEO (2)
• Octane Coffee, Adrian Deasy, Founder & CEO (3)
• Synthetaic, Corey Jaskolski, CEO (4)

Entrepreneurship Winners:

• Norrie Daroga, President, CodeBaby (5)
• Roy Dietsch, CEO, PartsBadger (6)
• Britt Gottschalk, Founder and CEO, Geno.Me (7)
• Paul Stillmank, Founder & Executive Chairman, 7Rivers (8)

Regional Spirit Award Winner:

• Dean Amhaus, President & CEO, The Water Council (9)

Lifetime Achievement Entrepreneur Winner:

• Jerry Jendusa, CEO, BreakthrU Family of Companies (10)

Protecting Your Business From Fraud and Safeguarding Your Assets

In today’s rapidly evolving business landscape, the threat of fraud poses a significant risk to businesses of all sizes. Protecting your business from fraud is crucial for safeguarding your financial assets, preserving your reputation and maintaining the trust of your clients. This breakout session is designed to equip you with the knowledge and strategies necessary to secure your business against fraudulent activities.

During this session, Matt Haas, Senior Vice President, Business Banking Manager, Johnson Financial Group, will delve into the various types of fraud that businesses commonly encounter, including internal and external threats. He will explore the latest trends in fraud schemes, such as cyber security threats, business email compromises and check and ACH, and discuss the potential impact on your organization’s bottom line.

Matt will share practical insights and best practices to help you establish robust internal controls and implement effective fraud prevention measures. Furthermore, he will review the role of technology in fraud prevention, examining cutting-edge tools and techniques to help detect and enhance your fraud prevention capabilities.

In addition to preventive measures, Matt will also discuss the importance of developing a comprehensive incident response plan. He will guide you through the steps to take to stop any further damage and to begin resolving any potential issues.

By attending this breakout session, you will gain valuable insights and practical strategies to protect your business from fraud.

• 2022 Innovation + Entrepreneurship Forum
• 2021 Innovation + Entrepreneurship Forum

Interested in sponsoring an event? To reap the benefits of the ultimate in-person marketing opportunity contact Linda Crawford, Director of Sales, to discuss opportunities. Event sponsorships are limited.