Progress Lakeshore

05/29/2026

Hear the ideas. Cast your vote.

Join us at Idea Spark to experience 60‑second pitches from people sharing their business ideas.

Connect with others, hear new ideas, and help vote for your favorites.

🍻 Drink + appetizers included for registered attendees
📅 June 17 | 5:30 PM
📍 The Wharf Manitowoc
👉 Register to attend: https://www.progresslakeshore.org/idea-spark/

✅ No purchase required to participate

05/28/2026

Got a business idea?
Come pitch it.

At Idea Spark, you get 60 seconds to take the mic, no slides, no formal presentation, no pressure to be perfect. Just your idea and the chance to earn a share of over $1,500 in awards.

🍻 All registered attendees receive a drink ticket + light appetizers
📅 Wednesday, June 17
⏰ 5:30 PM
📍 The Wharf Manitowoc

👉 Register now to pitch or attend: https://www.progresslakeshore.org/idea-spark/

✅ No purchase required to participate

Idea Spark Idea Spark A 60‑Second Pitch Night for Big or Small Ideas Over $1,500 in cash prizes Idea Spark is a new event inviting entrepreneurs, creatives, and idea‑holders to step up, share an idea, and see what can happen. Whether you’re pitching a business, a product, or a service, Idea Sp...

05/26/2026

This low-interest loan is designed for:
• New child care providers
• Providers expanding their program
• Those working toward licensing

If you’re in Manitowoc County, let’s talk. 🧸📚🎨

Email [email protected] or visit https://www.progresslakeshore.org/start-a-child-care-business/ to learn more.

05/21/2026

Did you know?

If you’re opening or expanding a childcare business, funding through our Childcare Accelerator Loan may help cover licensing-related renovations like installing a fence, safety upgrades, and more.

Up to $6,000 may be available.

Email [email protected] to see what qualifies.

05/20/2026

C**t and the Two Rivers Business Association

05/19/2026

One minute. That’s it.

Share your business or product idea in 60 seconds, and you could walk away with cash.

💵 $1,500+ in prizes
🎤 Casual, fun vibe
📅 June 17 | 5:30 PM
📍 The Wharf Manitowoc

👉 Register to pitch or attend: https://www.progresslakeshore.org/idea-spark/

05/18/2026

Cribs, high chairs, and outdoor play equipment are key items for child care. Start-up costs can add up quickly, but help is available.

You might qualify for a start-up loan of up to $3,000 to buy equipment.

To find out more, email Lynn at [email protected], our Community Childcare Development Specialist.

05/13/2026

💡Got an idea and one minute?

Come pitch at Idea Spark, a casual open-mic pitch night where you get 60 seconds to share your business idea, product, or service.

No slides.
No rehearsing for weeks.
Just one minute to spark something new.

💵 Over $1,500 in cash prizes
🍻 Drink ticket + light snacks for registered attendees
📅 Wednesday, June 17 | 5:30 PM
📍 The Wharf Manitowoc

👉 Pitch participants and spectators can register here: https://www.progresslakeshore.org/idea-spark/

05/13/2026

Missed the Progress Lakeshore 2026 Annual Excellence in Economic Development Awards Breakfast? Catch the latest episode of the Lakeshore Business Compass Podcast to hear more about this year’s award winners and the impact they’re making across our community!

Listen Tuesdays at 10:30 AM on WOMT Radio 1240 AM / 107.9 FM, or stream on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Podbean, or Amazon Music.

Awards Recap

05/11/2026

Thinking about starting or expanding a child care business in Manitowoc County?

Low-interest funding is available for equipment and licensing-related renovations through our Child Care Revolving Loan Fund.

Email [email protected] to learn how it works or visit our website to learn more. ➡ https://www.progresslakeshore.org/start-a-child-care-business/