REV-UP MKE 2025
A cornerstone of economic development in Milwaukee’s Near West Side, the annual Rev-Up MKE competition serves as a powerful engine for attracting new businesses and igniting investment in the neighborhood’s commercial corridors.
In 2025, Rev-Up MKE is offering more than funding to support entrepreneurs in launching sustainable, resilient businesses. Through mentorship, technical assistance and tailored resources, participants gain the tools for their businesses to thrive.
This year’s 1st prize winner will earn the opportunity to operate a pop-up storefront at Concordia 27, a dynamic community hub that connects emerging businesses with the public, local events and expert support in grants, loans and permitting. Positioned at a high-visibility intersection with steady foot traffic from nearby offices and the Cecilia Apartments, this space provides more than exposure, it offers a launchpad for long-term success.
SAVE THE DATE!
Rev-Up MKE
New format! Expo-style Pitch Presentation
September 8, 2025
Doors open at 5:15 p.m.
The Rave/Eagles Ballroom
In addition to the brand-new Rev-Up MKE competition expo-style format, this year’s event will include the crowd-favorite, a “Taste of the Near West Side,” which features local cuisine and live entertainment that reflects the neighborhood’s energy and diversity.
About the Competition
Grand Prizes
- 1st place winner will receive:
- $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
- 2nd place winner will receive:
- $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 will receive:
- $500 cash prize
- 3-to-6 month Fruition MKE co-working membership
- Media outreach and social media recognition from Near West Side Partners
- Community Impact Award winner, to be recognized as a business whose mission supports community well-being, will receive:
- $1,000 cash prize
- Media outreach and social media recognition from Near West Side Partners
Judging Criteria
Entrepreneurs should apply now!
Pre-Event Technical Support: All selected finalists will participate in three 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.
Refreshed Format: The 2025 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.
The deadline to submit an application to present your business idea in this year’s Rev-Up MKE Expo-Style Pitch Presentation Event is August 3, 2025 at 11:59 p.m.
Questions?
If you have any questions, contact Kelsey Otero at kelsey.otero@marquette.edu or 414-288-4990.
Rev-Up Sponsors
2024 Rev-Up MKE Photos
