Most people have a very strong sense of organizational ownership, but I think what people have to own is an innovation agenda.
— Satya Nadella, Microsoft CEO & UWM alumnus
The typewriter, the blender and cast iron bathtubs were invented in Wisconsin. Over the years, manufacturers in the state have created innovations to improve numerous products, including motorcycles, overhead cranes, hydroelectric units and diving equipment.
In the 21st century, the East and West coasts are widely considered the hotbeds of American innovation, especially for high-tech industries.
But Wisconsin, while overlooked by some, remains an innovation hotbed. In this new era of business, companies throughout the state are creating interesting and exciting innovations for new industries.
SwanLeap’s software has brought artificial intelligence into the logistics sector and has propelled the company to the top of the Inc. 5000 list of America’s fastest-growing companies.
Many other Wisconsin companies are doing fantastic, innovative things. Exact Sciences developed leading-edge technology to detect colon cancer. Fujifilm Cellular Dynamics is on the forefront of stem cell use. Shine Medical Technologies produces isotopes for medical imaging. Phoenix makes neutron generators for the medical, defense and energy sectors.
You can read about all of those companies and many other stories of Wisconsin innovation in the pages of this, the second edition of Innovate Wisconsin.
