Program

8:00am

Doors open, (free) continental breakfast, tea/coffee

8:45am

Welcome remarks

9:00am

Disruptive rEvolution Showcase talks

1

Maximizing Startup Success through Social Media Disruption
Ema Roloff

In today’s digital age, the way people buy has transformed. Startups must navigate these evolving customer expectations to thrive. This session delves into the drivers of changing buying behaviors and their impact on your business. Discover how to craft a compelling digital sales strategy that leverages thought leadership on platforms like LinkedIn. Learn how to pitch your startup effectively, attract investors, and build credibility. Stay ahead of the competition by embracing innovation and continuously evolving your digital approach to meet the needs of modern customers.

2

Two guys from Madison vs. the World of Cybersecurity
Will Robus

The story of Outpost Security’s attempt to disrupt global players in cybersecurity and deliver a successful operating model of cyber defense to the world’s largest organizations (and make a living).

3

Revolutionizing Healthcare: How RedFox AI is Making Home Lab Testing Accessible and Efficient
Nick Myers

In this presentation, we will explore how RedFox AI is transforming healthcare with our AI technology for patient engagement. RedFox’s solution enhances the accessibility of home lab testing by streamlining patient interactions and facilitating seamless communication between patients, manufacturers, and healthcare providers. We will highlight the current challenges in lab testing, demonstrate our AI-driven solution, and discuss the future of healthcare. Join us to see how RedFox AI is making healthcare more efficient, accessible, and patient-centric.

10:00am

Break

10:15am

Fireside Chats

Creating opportunity change in entrepreneurial ecosystems
Richelle Martin & Heather Wentler

The presenters’ personal and professional journeys have motivated them to create impactful change for entrepreneurs across Wisconsin. For actual innovation & disruption to happen within entrepreneurial ecosystems, it takes both the entrepreneurs and the investors to adapt and modify the way things have been done in the past. We’ll discuss trends and bright spots we’ve seen across Wisconsin and also invite program participants to provide input based on their experiences for creating equitable entrepreneurial ecosystems where everyone thrives.

Topics we’ll discuss: Our background stories that brought us to today & Professional and mentorship focus areas

Richelle

Investor Accelerator
University Startups

Heather

Women entrepreneurs
Approach to working with entrepreneurs
Communication & being realistic about the future of your company

11:00am

Keynote

Presented by: John Neis

Gaining Altitude in Turbulent Air
The last eighteen months have been exceptionally challenging for entrepreneurs seeking investors. Yet, history has shown that some of the most iconic companies launched in down markets. John Neis will discuss the current climate, look ahead to the future, and discuss strategies for succeeding in a difficult environment.

11:45am – 1:30pm

Lunch & VenFair

Enjoy a free lunch and a vendor fair in the atrium! A great way to find valuable entrepreneur resources and a chance to network with fellow attendees.

Learn more about the VenFair.

1:30pm-3:30pm

MERLIN Pitch and rePlay

Our signature event! This is an excellent way for entrepreneurs to practice their elevator pitches while gaining invaluable feedback from Merlin Mentors.

Learn more about the Pitch and rePlay.

3:30pm

Closing Remarks