As part of Madison’s vibrant entrepreneurial community, we at 100state understand the challenges of starting and growing a business. We’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to free resources for entrepreneurs available right here in Madison, Wisconsin. Whether you’re launching a startup, scaling your business, or just exploring entrepreneurship, these resources can help you succeed without straining your budget.
Legal Support
1. Law & Entrepreneurship Clinic
– Website: https://law.wisc.edu/uwle/
– What they offer: Free legal services for startups and early-stage companies
– How it works: Law students, supervised by faculty and private sector attorneys, provide legal consultation
– Best for: Business formation, contracts, and basic legal questions
– Pro tip: Schedule consultations early – spots fill up quickly each semester
Business Development
2. Wisconsin Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
– Website: https://wisconsinsbdc.org/centers/madison/
– Free one-on-one business consulting
– Market research assistance
– Financial planning guidance
– Business plan development
– Pro tip: Start here if you’re in the early stages of business planning
3. SCORE Madison
– Website: https://madison.score.org/
– Experienced business mentor matching
– Free workshops and webinars
– Business plan reviews
– Best for: Getting advice from seasoned entrepreneurs
Accelerators & Mentorship
4. gener8tor
– Website: https://www.gener8tor.com
– Free accelerator programs (gBETA)
– Mentorship opportunities
– Networking events
– Best for: High-growth potential startups
5. Merlin Mentors
– Website: https://merlinmentors.org
– Volunteer mentors with successful startup experience
– Focused guidance for early-stage ventures
– Structured mentorship program
– Pro tip: Come prepared with specific questions and goals
Innovation & Technology
6. Wisconsin Technology Council
– Website: https://wisconsintechnologycouncil.com
– Entrepreneur’s Toolkit: https://wisconsintechnologycouncil.com/entrepreneurs-toolkit/
– Resource navigation assistance
– Innovation network membership
– Best for: Tech-focused startups and innovators
Diversity-Focused Resources
8. WWBIC (Wisconsin Women’s Business Initiative Corporation)
– Website: https://www.wwbic.com/
– Business education and financial literacy
– Access to capital resources
– Specialized support programs
– Best for: Women, minority, and veteran entrepreneurs
9. Doyenne Group
– Website: https://doyennegroup.org
– Focus on women and marginalized gender entrepreneurs
– Venture development support
– Peer networking
– Pro tip: Join their Slack channel for continuous community support
Professional Networks
10. Madison MAGNET
– Website: http://www.madisonmagnet.org
– Young professional networking
– Skill development events
– Community building
– Best for: Early-career entrepreneurs
11. Madison Downtowners
– Website: https://madisondowntowners.com
– Local business networking
– Monthly social events
– Downtown business insights
– Pro tip: Great for retail and service-based businesses
12. Capital Entrepreneurs
– Website: http://www.capitalentrepreneurs.com/
– Startup community connections
– Collaborative opportunities
– Resource sharing
– Best for: Tech and scalable startups
Educational Resources
13. Madison College Center for Entrepreneurship
– Website: https://madisoncollege.edu/center-entrepreneurship
– Free workshops
– Business planning assistance
– Resource connections
– Best for: Learning business fundamentals
How to Make the Most of These Resources
1. Start with Assessment
– Schedule a meeting with SBDC to evaluate your business idea
– Attend a SCORE workshop to understand basics
– Get legal guidance from the L&E Clinic
2. Build Your Support Network
– Join industry-specific groups
– Attend networking events
– Connect with potential mentors
3. Access Specialized Support
– Identify resources that match your business type
– Take advantage of diversity-focused programs
– Participate in relevant accelerator programs
4. Ongoing Education
– Attend free workshops
– Join peer learning groups
– Stay connected with the community
Next Steps
Here at 100state, we’re proud to be part of Madison’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Many of our members actively use these resources for entrepreneurs, while working from our collaborative space. Want to learn more about how 100state can complement these resources and support your business journey?
Contact us to learn more about how these resources can work together with our coworking community to support your entrepreneurial journey.
