In the News

 "Innovation to Impact" - Annual Recognition Event

The Urban Hope Entrepreneur Center’s recent annual recognition event at the Radisson Hotel & Conference Center recognized 81 graduating entrepreneurs, sponsors, volunteers, program achievements, business plan winners, and education, business and government leaders. 

Green Bay Mayor Jim Schmitt commented on the importance of entrepreneurship and partnership for the community.  John Lombardi addressed the audience on “mental toughness” and its importance for entrepreneurs.  Lisa Malak from WFRV Channel 5 Television was the Master of Ceremonies.

Executive Director Mark Burwell highlighted this year’s theme, “Innovation to Impact”, as the award winners and many successful entrepreneurs are all using innovation to fuel their business and make an impact in the community.

Special awards were given to:

- “Star of Hope Business Award” – Gary Wesa and Chad Klaubauf, Morgan Stanley (Sustaining Support)

- “Shooting Star Business Award” – Jill Bassett and Kelly Cornelius, Plae Bistro (Entrepreneurial Innovation)

(Located in the new Millennium Park Lifestyle Center)

- “Alumni Volunteer Award” – Ryan Burwell (Leadership and Commitment)

- “Sustaining Star Business Award” – Terry Wojcik, The Urban Frog (Perseverance and Innovation)

(an anchor in Green Bay’s Broadway District)

- “Reggie White Award” – Teri Shevy, artessence LLC (Leadership, Motivation and Giving Back)

(a photography studio located in Green Bay’s Olde Main Street Commons)

Business plan grant winners from the most recent class include:

Rafael Alicea, Native American Service Group LLC, Appleton

Shawn LaCount, Advanced Connected Technologies, Abrams

Kiley Mroczynski, Shelby Rhae’s – Events, Soirees & Happenings, De Pere

Steve Richer, Play! Photography, De Pere

Deborah Lynn, L’Utopie, Green Bay

Ron Ross, Transformations Partner, Green Bay

Dr. Janet Thibert, Advanced Hearing Solutions, Howard

Jamie Doeren, Sculpture by Doeren, Abrams / Germany

 Congratulations to Our Alumni Entrepreneurs

Jim LaCourt, AHEAD Human Resources, was named Small Business Person of the Year by the Greater Green Bay Area Chamber of Commerce.  The business also recently celebrated its 5 year business anniversary.

 Urban Hope Ohio

East Central Ohio, which includes Cleveland, Canton, Akron and New Philadelphia, has embraced and adopted the Urban Hope program model.

Vince Watts, the Urban Hope Ohio Program Director, Mark Burwell and other community leaders have spearheaded the classes and program.  We are excited about the partnership and shared vision.

Urban Hope Entrepreneur Center in Canton, Ohio!