Microsoft-Backed Fund Offers Tech Prize at NFL Draft
Venture capital investment in the US midwest technology sector has increased as investors seek opportunities beyond traditional coastal technology hubs.
The region's established industrial base, research institutions and lower operating costs have attracted technology companies seeking to develop solutions for manufacturing, agriculture and healthcare sectors.
As a result, Wisconsin has emerged as a focal point for this expansion, with technology companies establishing research facilities and partnerships with local institutions.
This environment has created opportunities for venture capital firms to connect emerging technology companies with established businesses – these relationships enabling startups to develop and test solutions in operational environments, while providing established companies with access to technological innovation.
Now, TitletownTech, a venture capital firm backed by American football team Green Bay Packers and Microsoft, has launched a pitch competition offering US$1m in investment funding to coincide with the 2025 National Football League (NFL) Draft in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
How Microsoft and Green Bay Packers strengthen Wisconsin technology sector
TitletownTech aims to highlight Wisconsin's technology sector development, which includes Microsoft's AI data centre in the state's southeast region and an AI Co-Innovation Laboratory in Milwaukee.
TitletownTech now manages US$100m in assets and has invested in 30 companies across the US and focuses on early-stage ventures in sectors including national security, supply chain security, hydroponic farming, brain health diagnostics and fusion energy development.
"The TitletownTech Startup Draft is creating opportunities for transformative ideas to thrive," says TitletownTech Managing Partner Craig Dickman.
"With the Packers and Microsoft catalysing this effort, we have a unique stage during the NFL Draft to showcase Wisconsin's growing innovation ecosystem."
TitleTownâs competition structure mirrors NFL talent selection
The competition parallels the NFL Draft's evaluation process.
Selected companies will participate in Titletownâs Startup Combine which is a two-day event on April 3 and 4 in Green Bay and participants will present their business proposals and receive feedback from TitletownTech's investment team, existing portfolio companies and corporate investors â including machinery manufacturer Ariens, plumbing fixtures company Kohler and transport firm Schneider.
The Startup Combine provides participants with exposure to potential investors and mentors and the event aims to establish strategic relationships between startups and established companies beyond the competition timeline.
Wisconsin innovation ecosystem development
The competition targets companies developing technology in sectors aligned with Wisconsin's industrial base, including advanced manufacturing, supply chain management, logistics, agriculture, water management, energy production, digital health and sports technology.
Additionally, the investment approach focuses on connecting emerging founders with resources and mentorship to expand their operations nationally and leverages its network of corporate investors and partners to support portfolio company growth.
Meanwhile, Microsoft's involvement in the company extends through its TechSpark initiative, which promotes economic development and innovation across the US.
The company states on LinkedIn: “TitletownTech is creating real opportunities for innovators – providing capital, mentorship and industry expertise to scale their businesses and bring new ideas to market.
“Through Microsoft TechSpark, we're helping foster inclusive economic opportunity, job creation, and innovation in Wisconsin and communities across the country.”
Competition culminates during NFL Draft week
The competition concludes with Startup Draft Day on April 24 2025, preceding the NFL Draft's first round.
The event will stream on professional networking platform LinkedIn, social media platform X and video platform YouTube and finalists will present their proposals to secure the US$1m investment.
Mark Murphy, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Green Bay Packers, says: "Our unique community-owned structure allows us to invest in initiatives like TitletownTech, which highlight Wisconsin's strengths and create lasting impact beyond football.
âThis competition is an exciting way to showcase the innovation and talent that will shape the future, making it a perfect complement to the NFL Draft as we highlight the next generation of game-changers on and off the field."
Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President of Microsoft, adds: "Football won't be the only exciting game in town as Green Bay hosts the NFL Draft.
“The Startup Draft is a strong testament to TitletownTech's initiative to find and invest in leading entrepreneurs who want to tackle challenges to US growth and opportunity."
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