M-WERC
Mid-West Energy Research Consortium has won a $50,000 grant from the U.S. Small Business Administration through its second annual Growth Accelerator Fund Competition. The contest targeted accelerators, incubators, co-working spaces and other models, and aimed to advance the work of accelerators, particularly those located in cities that have limited access to venture capital and investors. The 2015 competition also sought to help accelerators comprised of underrepresented groups and those with an emphasis on manufacturing. About $4 million was distributed through this year’s competition. Grant dollars allocated to M-WERC will support operations of its WERCBench Accelerator, facilitated at its Energy Innovation Center in Milwaukee. Through its WERCBench Labs program, M-WERC gives selected startups mentoring opportunities and resources to help transform their ideas into viable businesses. M-WERC won the national grant through an application process and was one of 80 recipients. Applications were reviewed by more than 40 thought leaders in entrepreneurship, investments, startups, economic development, capital formation and academia. The first round of judging whittled more than 400 entries down to 180 finalists.
MGIC Investment Corp. and Waukesha School District
MGIC Investment Corp. and the School District of Waukesha were among the winners of UnitedHealthcare’s seventh annual “Well Deserved” award, which honors employers that have led innovative worksite wellness programs to boost employee health. UnitedHealthcare is recognizing 11 companies across the country with the award this year. An external broker review panel assessed award applicants. Milwaukee-based MGIC has worked to inspire a culture of health in the workplace with its wellness offerings. The company has provided wellness incentives to employees for several years and now facilitates an outcomes-based program through which staffers can meet with a doctor and discuss necessary health screenings. MGIC also values fitness, as it offers incentives to employees for taking fitness classes and for improving their cardio and strength training. Additionally, the company has a flexibility ticket that allows employees to attend fitness classes at times convenient for their schedules. The company also promotes healthy snacking by stocking its vending machines with healthy options. The School District of Waukesha’s wellness efforts have targeted teachers, staff, students and community residents. The school district organizes an annual run/walk and community health fair. The district has also worked to promote health through social media outlets and emphasized the importance of mental health with morale boosting initiatives.
