FIRE: Fueling Innovation in the Rural Ecosystem

The FIRE Consortium is a group of organizations on a mission to support innovation across rural Wisconsin.

2026 Members:

Universities
Lakeland University - Center for Innovation & Entrepreneurship

Economic Development Organizations
Progress Lakeshore
Sheboygan County Economic Development Corp.

Non-Profit Organizations
Accelerate Sheboygan
ColorBold Business Association : Serving entrepreneurs of color
Midwest Founders Community : Free to join! Stay in the know.
MKE Tech Hub : Apply for FOR-M, a free accelerator with prizes!
Wisconsin Startup Coalition : Membership is free for founders!
WiSys : VentureHome, resources for founders