2026 Upcoming Events
Save The Date for our Accellerator Pitch Competition with New North.
Past Event Highlights
The Sheboygan County Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) hosted its 2026 Annual Celebration on November 5 at Pine Hills Country Club. The evening recognized the accomplishments of local businesses, highlighted the importance of private-sector investment and community partnerships, and celebrated the economic opportunities shaping the county's future.
2026 Award Recipients
Three outstanding businesses were recognized for their contributions to the local economy:
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Entrepreneur of the Year - Iron Supports: Founder Ryan Hansen was recognized for his entrepreneurial leadership and business growth.
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Small Business of the Year - 3 Sheeps Brewing: Founder and Brew Master Grant Pauly accepted the award recognizing the company's success and contributions to the local business community.
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Economic Driver of the Year - Sartori Cheese: CEO Bert Sartori accepted the award recognizing Sartori's significant impact on the regional economy, workforce, and continued investment in Sheboygan County.
The Startup World Cup Sheboygan Regional Pitch Competition took place on October 19, 2026, at the Weill Center in Sheboygan.
The event brought together entrepreneurs, business leaders, investors, and community supporters to celebrate innovation and entrepreneurship while giving Wisconsin startups an opportunity to compete for a place on the global stage.
Event highlights
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Competition: Entrepreneurs presented their business ideas in a live pitch competition before a panel of five judges.
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First Place: Louis Structures LLC, represented by Benjamin Louis Horvat.
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People's Choice Award: Food FiXR, represented by Grace Hameister.
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Global Opportunity: Benjamin Louis Horvat officially qualified to advance to the Startup World Cup Global Finals in San Francisco, where regional winners compete for a chance to win the $1 million grand prize.
Fellow developers, investors, and decision-makers came together for an in-depth look at the projects, sites, incentives, and growth opportunities shaping the future of Sheboygan County. This focused event highlighted key development initiatives, available properties, and strategic advantages that make the region an ideal place to invest and grow.
Following the presentation, we continued the conversation during a dedicated networking session, an opportunity to connect with local leaders, industry peers, and potential partners.
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Date: Thursday, April 23, 2026
Location:
Pine Hills Country Club
4914 Superior Ave
Sheboygan, WI 53083
Time:
Programming: 1:00 - 3:30 PM
Networking: 3:30 - 5:00 PM
Cost: None
Event Highlights
- Co-Winners Honored: Lakeland University and Lakeshore College shared the top honor for their massive impact on the local economy.
- Lakeland University was recognized and celebrated for its cooperative education program allowing students to earn credit through work with local partner employers.
- Lakeshore College was recognized and celebrated for adjusting training programs to fit changing demands in local manufacturing and service sectors.