Rev-Up MKE is a small business pitch competition that provides local entrepreneurs the opportunity to receive coaching, technical assistance, and tailored resources — helping them build sustainable, resilient businesses in Milwaukee’s Near West Side.
Finalists receive hands-on support before ever stepping foot on the expo floor — including four group consultation sessions designed to sharpen business plans, strengthen presentations, and build the confidence to compete.
On event day, entrepreneurs host their own booth, engaging directly with judges, community members, and potential customers in a dynamic, expo-style showcase that goes beyond a traditional pitch.
Join Us for Expo Night
Come meet all 11 finalists, enjoy the pop-up showcase, and celebrate Milwaukee’s entrepreneurial spirit September 16, 5 p.m. at The Rave/Eagles Club. Free and open to all ages!
2026 Finalists
Art as an Outlet – Wisconsin
Bradley Perich
Art as an Outlet – Wisconsin is a photography school mentoring youth through hands-on creative education.
Brilliantaires
Roberta Steward
Brilliantaires is a workforce training academy preparing young adults for careers and economic mobility.
Casita Prado
Christina Lopez-Prado
Casita Prado is a sustainable children’s apparel brand made from reclaimed, leftover textile stock.
Jivana Wellness LLC
Alexandria Ellis
Jivana Wellness LLC is a holistic wellness brand offering herbal remedies, Reiki, and spiritual healing services.
Milwaukee Hip-Hop Museum
Antonia Marie Anderson
Milwaukee Hip-Hop Museum is a grassroots museum preserving hip-hop history through artifacts and youth education.
Milwaukee Mandalas
Christina Destrampe
Milwaukee Mandalas is a paper-art studio creating mandala kits and hands-on creative workshops.
Peacemaker Dispute Resolution, LLC
Trinity Mason
Peaceful Dispute Respolution, LLC is a mediation practice resolving family, workplace, and tenant disputes peacefully.
Senses Yoga School
Luan Seguim-Arnold
Senses Yoga School is a community-based yoga school teaching wellness across Milwaukee neighborhood partner sites.
Stajah Stunna Enterprises
Christajah Hister
Stajah Stunna Enterprises is a beauty studio offering hair, wig, makeup, and lash services.
The African In Us Boutique
Latoya Swift
The African In Us Boutique is a boutique celebrating African culture through fashion, accessories, and self-care.
The Baker’s Connection
Paige Cross
The Baker’s Connection is a Southern-inspired bakery serving nostalgic desserts with a modern twist.
Grand Prizes
First Place Winner
- $5,000 cash prize
- 3-to-6 month lease for a white-box space in Concordia 27
- 3-to-6 month Fruition MKE co-working membership
- Business coaching
- In-kind services (small business mentorship, marketing and communications, etc)
- Media outreach and social media recognition from Near West Side Partners
Second Place Winner
- $1,500 cash prize
- 3-to-6 month Fruition MKE co-working membership
- Media outreach and social media recognition from Near West Side Partners
Audience Choice Award winner
- $500 cash prize
- 3-to-6 month Fruition MKE co-working membership
- Media outreach and social media recognition from Near West Side Partners
Judging Criteria
What’s New in 2026?
Pre-Event Technical Support
All selected finalists will participate in four group consultation sessions ahead of the event. These sessions are strongly encouraged and will help refine business plans, develop pitch presentations and prepare participants for expo day.
Presentation Requirements
Before the pitch event, finalists must submit an outline of their business. On the day of the expo, each entrepreneur will host a booth and engage with judges, investors, residents and attendees. Participants are encouraged to create a compelling display with visuals, accurate information and product samples.
Event Format
The 2026 Rev-Up MKE competition will feature an engaging, expo-style format. Each entrepreneur will host a booth to showcase their business idea and interact with event attendees. A panel of judges will circulate, evaluate and select the competition winner. Attendees will also get the opportunity to vote for their favorite business to determine the Audience Choice Award winner.
Questions?
If you have any questions, contact revup@nearwestsidepartners.org.
2025 Rev-Up MKE Photos
