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Introducing the Next Wave of Innovation: 2025 Madworks Accelerator by StartingBlock




The entrepreneurial landscape continues to evolve with an impressive array of new ventures spanning food services, technology, healthcare, and education. Today, we're highlighting eight companies poised for significant growth in their respective markets who have earned their spot in the 2025 Madworks cohort. From AI-powered enterprise solutions to artisanal food experiences, these businesses represent the diverse innovation happening across our entrepreneurial ecosystem.


Tech Solutions Transforming Industries

Blur, founded by UW Madison student Taenam Kim, is reimagining campus connectivity with its student-exclusive platform that seamlessly integrates academic discussions, social networking, and campus resources. This secure digital space addresses the unique needs of college students, enhancing engagement and fostering stronger campus communities.


In the artificial intelligence sector, StrudelAI (founded by Kristin Isaac and Shai Rubin) is developing specialized AI agents for enterprise software applications. Their technology handles critical functions including telemetry, support, performance monitoring, code quality, and security—streamlining operations for businesses across various industries.


For the restaurant industry, Oui Technologies (founded by Sean Fogarty and Marcus Petty-Saphon) offers tailored software-as-a-service solutions with a particular focus on independent restaurants featuring from-scratch menus. Their platform addresses specific challenges faced by these establishments, helping them compete in an increasingly digital marketplace.


Meanwhile, Syrenn, founded by Colin Guest and Nati Solomon Fett (both Level Set graduates), is revolutionizing professional training through voice AI role-playing technology. Their scalable solution provides innovative training-as-a-service capabilities for organizations looking to enhance employee skills through immersive experiences.


Healthcare Innovation

MyoWorks, led by Dr. Jeremy Quick, is advancing chiropractic care through specialized tools and software designed to collect and analyze data from soft tissue treatments in manual therapy settings. This innovative approach brings data-driven insights to an often traditional field of healthcare.


Culinary Entrepreneurs Making Their Mark

The food sector is represented by several promising ventures already generating revenue and ready for expansion:


Miggy's Bakes, founded by Shelby Olstad, has built a reputation for Instagram-worthy, irresistible baked goods while also offering expert cake and cookie decorating classes and hosting memorable events for all ages. Currently at capacity, they're exploring strategic expansion options to meet growing demand.


Tricky Foods, founded by Therese Merkel, specializes in aesthetically pleasing cheese and charcuterie boards, grazing tables, and innovative food-based experiences. The company is currently evaluating franchise opportunities to scale their distinctive culinary concept.


Perhaps most remarkable is New Life Greens, launched by 19-year-old entrepreneur Jessi Ricci. Already supplying some of Madison's premier restaurants with locally and sustainably grown microgreens, the company is scaling up to provide some even larger companies delicious microgreens.


The Growth Trajectory

What makes this cohort particularly promising is their business readiness. The food companies have established revenue streams and are strategically positioned for scaling operations. Meanwhile, the technology and healthcare ventures have all formally incorporated and feature strong technical leadership.


This diverse group of entrepreneurs represents the next generation of business leaders, combining technical expertise with innovative problem-solving across multiple industries. Their collective potential suggests we'll be hearing much more about these companies in the coming years as they continue to develop their unique market positions and expand their operations.


Madworks is facilitated by Susie Younkle and hosted by StartingBlock. For more information, please contact support@madworksaccelerator.org or beth@startingblockmadison.org

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