The Near West Side is home to some of Milwaukee’s most iconic businesses. From internationally known institutions like Harley-Davidson and Molson Coors, to local gems like Five O’Clock Steakhouse, entrepreneurs thrive here.  

To keep that spirit alive, Near West Side Partners has made business recruitment a priority. A key component of these efforts is Rev-Up MKE, a Shark Tank-style pitch competition that gives start-up entrepreneurs the opportunity to start or expand a business and get the support needed to make it successful in the Near West Side. A number of Rev-Up finalists have set up shop in the community and quickly become neighborhood staples, including Pete’s Pops, Triciclo Peru, A Goodman’s Desserts and more. 

Through one of the CNI Action Activities, the Storefront Improvement Program (SIP), Near West Side Partners has provided facade grants to 12 businesses to help beautify the commercial corridors and make the outside match the magic that resides in each of the community’s local businesses.

The establishment of Near West Side Business Improvement District #10 has brought new resources, funding opportunities and networking opportunities to the 350+ businesses along the community’s 5 major commercial corridors. Since its inception, our business districts have become cleaner, safer, and more reliably funded.