This Week's Latest Tech News in Milwaukee, WI - Sunday April 20th 2025 Edition

By Ludo Fourrage

Last Updated: April 20th 2025

Milwaukee skyline with tech-themed icons overlay, symbolizing innovation and news in the city's technology sector.

Too Long; Didn't Read:

Milwaukee’s tech scene saw $28.7M invested in the Bronzeville Hub and a $3.3B Microsoft data center, fueling 2,400+ new jobs. Privacy debates intensified over police surveillance tools, while new U.S. tariffs could raise electronics prices up to 43%, creating uncertainty for consumers and retailers.

Milwaukee’s tech scene this week reflected both tangible progress and significant challenges, signaling the city’s evolving role as a Midwest innovation hub.

Noteworthy investments - like the $28.7 million Bronzeville Creative Arts & Tech Hub and Microsoft’s $3.3 billion new data center - are propelling job creation, with the Bronzeville Hub expected to generate 400+ positions and add affordable housing, while Microsoft’s expansion could mean over 2,000 union jobs.

Meanwhile, ongoing tech education efforts and partnerships, such as the MKE Tech Hub Coalition’s Synapse initiative, are supporting local manufacturing businesses in adopting AI and building a robust innovation ecosystem through practical AI adoption for manufacturers.

However, headlines weren’t all positive. Privacy debates intensified as the ACLU of Wisconsin called for a suspension on new police surveillance tools, citing civil liberties and public trust concerns, mirroring a citywide push for better oversight of technology’s impact on daily life with a growing focus on balancing growth, budgets, and accountability.

At the same time, new U.S. tariffs threaten to increase electronics prices by up to 43%, worrying retailers and consumers and adding an element of economic uncertainty.

For a full rundown of tech job growth and the innovative projects shaping Milwaukee, explore this week’s comprehensive roundup here.

Table: Milwaukee Tech Week at a Glance

Initiative Potential Impact Lead Partner
Bronzeville Hub 400+ jobs, community arts & tech growth Charles Smith
Microsoft Data Center 2,000 union jobs, delayed timeline Jessica Smith
Tariffs 20–43% price hikes on electronics Matthew Johnson

  • Investment Boost: Major investments like the Bronzeville Hub and Microsoft data center are driving job growth and local tech expansion.
  • Innovation & Education: Initiatives such as the Synapse AI project are supporting manufacturers in adopting innovation-driven solutions.
  • Privacy Concerns: The ACLU of Wisconsin is emphasizing the need for civil liberties and technology oversight in city policing.
  • Economic Uncertainty: New tariffs could sharply raise electronics prices, impacting consumers and retailers.

As Milwaukee continues to balance innovation, economic opportunity, and community values, the city’s tech narrative remains complex - and full of potential for those following closely.

Table of Contents

  • ACLU of Wisconsin Presses Pause on Milwaukee Police Surveillance Tools
  • Bronzeville Creative Arts & Tech Hub Breaks Ground, Transforming North Milwaukee
  • Milky Way Tech Hub Empowers Entrepreneurs with 'Milky Way Mafia' Program
  • Barfield Consulting Expands Milwaukee Operations, Rides Low-Code/No-Code Wave
  • GE HealthCare Drives Biohealth Innovation at Wisconsin Biohealth Tech Hub
  • Sift Healthcare Welcomes Ralph Perfetto as COO Amid AI-Driven Growth
  • Microsoft Puts $3.3B Data Center Project on Hold to Rethink Design
  • Costco Eyes New Store in Oconomowoc’s Pabst Farms, Boosting Local Commerce
  • Southwest Wisconsin Technical College Wins 2025 Aspen Prize for Excellence
  • Tariffs Threaten Tech Prices in Milwaukee, Raising Consumer and Retailer Concerns
  • Navigating Change: Milwaukee’s Tech Scene Faces Opportunities and Obstacles
  • Frequently Asked Questions

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ACLU of Wisconsin Presses Pause on Milwaukee Police Surveillance Tools

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This week, the ACLU of Wisconsin took a notable step by sending an open letter to Milwaukee leaders, urging a two-year pause on new police surveillance technologies such as facial recognition and drones.

The ACLU’s concerns follow recent moves by Milwaukee officials - like the Milwaukee Common Council approving police drone use and the Fire and Police Commission reviewing facial recognition adoption - that have prompted renewed scrutiny over civil liberties and transparency.

In its letter, the ACLU emphasized the risk that “authoritarianism does not always arrive with flashing lights,” warning that routine adoption of advanced surveillance can undermine trust, especially if frameworks for community input and oversight remain absent.

The group proposes that Milwaukee adopt a Community Control Over Police Surveillance (CCOPS) ordinance to ensure accountability and public participation.

Specific concerns include the MPD’s use of facial recognition in multiple cases - where, despite police assurances that results are only “advisory,” the technology helped make arrests in serious crimes - raising questions about accuracy and bias.

Additionally, while MPD’s new drones reportedly lack facial recognition features, they are still equipped with tools for persistent surveillance, like high-definition cameras and thermal imaging, which the ACLU says could affect privacy and disproportionately impact marginalized groups (learn more about drone surveillance).

The ACLU’s letter does not call for an outright ban but asks for time to build a regulatory framework before more technology is introduced.

  • Key Proposal: Community oversight is highlighted as crucial for all new police surveillance tech to improve transparency.
  • Main Concern: The ACLU stresses that unchecked adoption of surveillance tools can quietly erode civil liberties.
  • Technology Impact: Facial recognition and drones, though useful, present privacy and bias issues if not carefully managed.

As Milwaukee residents weigh the benefits of public safety tools against possible privacy trade-offs, the city is considering the formation of a community advisory board to oversee police surveillance policy.

For added context and to see the original language of the ACLU's proposal, you can read their letter to the Common Council here.

Milwaukee’s debate underscores the city’s ongoing commitment to finding a responsible balance between technology innovation, oversight, and individual rights, as emphasized by Jennifer Williams in her recent statement to the press.

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Bronzeville Creative Arts & Tech Hub Breaks Ground, Transforming North Milwaukee

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The Bronzeville Creative Arts & Tech Hub has officially broken ground in North Milwaukee, setting in motion a $28.7 million development designed to foster both community growth and economic opportunity.

Anchored at North Sixth Street and West North Avenue, the four-story project will feature 60 mixed-income apartments - 48 of which are reserved for affordable housing - and 29,000 square feet of space dedicated to creative entrepreneurship and small businesses.

The Hub’s vision centers on creating not only living spaces but also studios, coworking areas, mentorship zones, and performance venues that support local artists, technologists, and entrepreneurs.

  • Affordable housing is a central theme, with 48 units designated for this purpose, ensuring access for a diverse population.
  • Entrepreneurship support is evident in the inclusion of coworking areas, studios, and business mentorship programs to nurture community talent.
  • By prioritizing residents of the 53212 zip code for 20% of its housing, the project aims to reduce displacement and bolster local ties.

Targeted programs will include business mentorship, access to career pathways, and specific efforts to nurture creative and technical skills, with 20% of housing units prioritized for residents of the 53212 zip code to minimize displacement.

Partners such as the Wisconsin Conservatory of Music, Black Arts MKE, and Beyond STEM will help provide a vibrant mix of programming and community resources, while three live-work units with storefronts are slated to further enliven the neighborhood.

Partner Role Impact
Wisconsin Conservatory of Music Program Provider Supports music education and community arts
Black Arts MKE Cultural Partner Brings local arts programming to residents
Beyond STEM Technical Skills Mentor Promotes STEM opportunities in the community
The project secured a variety of funding sources, including tax credits, environmental cleanup grants, and city-supported financing.

According to developer Christopher Gonzalez, this initiative aims to be both a resource for entrepreneurs and a catalyst for local talent, reinforcing Bronzeville's legacy as a center for Black culture and innovation.

For more background on project specifics and community feedback, see coverage at the Daily Reporter, additional development details with renderings at Urban Milwaukee, and construction updates on the Creative Arts & Tech Hub’s project page.

With completion expected in the winter of 2025, the Hub stands to support local businesses, grow skills for youth and adults, and strengthen affordable housing options - laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and connected Milwaukee.

Milky Way Tech Hub Empowers Entrepreneurs with 'Milky Way Mafia' Program

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Milky Way Tech Hub is reshaping support for Milwaukee’s entrepreneurs with the upcoming launch of the “Milky Way Mafia” program, a mastermind group aimed at solo founders and early-stage business owners.

Founded by Jessica White and driven by a mission to uplift underrepresented technologists, Milky Way Tech Hub’s new initiative focuses on building a tight-knit entrepreneurial community through bi-weekly check-ins, accountability, book discussions, and resource sharing.

Unlike many national masterminds, the Milky Way Mafia is tailored to Milwaukee’s unique ecosystem, providing structured support for those often overlooked by coastal tech scenes.

Each cohort runs as a three-month pilot, featuring curated book selections such as "Your First Million" by Arlan Hamilton and "We Should All Be Millionaires" by Rachel Rodgers, designed to fuel both practical growth and mindset shifts (program details and background).

  • Accountability sessions - Regular goal setting and peer feedback ensure founders progress and remain motivated together.
  • Curated resources - Access to investor networks and professional guidance empowers participants to confidently tackle growth challenges.
  • Book discussions - Diverse readings stimulate new ideas, fostering collaborative learning and open perspectives.
  • Exclusive events - Networking with diverse technologists broadens participants' professional circles and supports Milwaukee’s tech diversity (Milky Way Tech Hub Meetups).
Program Feature Details Key Benefit
Duration 3 Months Intensive, structured growth
Cohort Size 8-12 Founders Close, peer-driven support
Cost $150-$500, tiered by membership Accessible for varied budgets
Location Milky Way Tech Hub, Milwaukee & virtual options Remote or in-person flexibility

Since opening applications, the program has sparked interest among Milwaukee’s solo founders seeking more community and a direct line to resources.

Milky Way Tech Hub, led by Charles Taylor, also offers business accelerators, pitch competitions, ongoing tech workshops, and AI education - all rooted in the mission to increase representation in tech and provide actionable learning opportunities (explore more Milky Way Tech Hub programs).

For many, joining the Milky Way Mafia is about finding support and shared accountability as they navigate entrepreneurship, highlighting a broader commitment to collaboration and inclusive growth in Milwaukee’s tech scene.

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Barfield Consulting Expands Milwaukee Operations, Rides Low-Code/No-Code Wave

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Barfield Consulting, a Midwest-based tech management firm founded by Rebecca Barfield, is broadening its reach in Milwaukee as the city continues to experience a surge in demand for streamlined, customizable technology solutions.

The firm’s expansion in 2025 is propelled by Milwaukee’s need for support in navigating project complexities, particularly involving cloud systems, ERP, and low-code/no-code technologies.

Barfield Consulting’s team specializes in helping clients manage high-stakes transitions such as data separation, CRM system integration, and legal business separations, reflecting their adaptability and industry expertise.

The emphasis on low-code/no-code adoption aligns with broader tech trends in which businesses are building in-house applications, saving on managed service costs, and reducing the risk of updates breaking custom solutions.

One client reportedly saved millions by implementing these technologies, and Barfield Consulting aims to deliver similar results for Milwaukee organizations through collaborative, intuitive approaches.

The company’s focus areas include:

  • Cloud and ERP Transformation: The central theme is the importance of cloud migration, where Barfield Consulting helps businesses navigate high subscription costs and limited customization, tailoring technology for Milwaukee’s tech-forward growth (Barfield Consulting expanding in Milwaukee).
  • Strategic Data Work: The main idea is leveraging cross-functional expertise for seamless data migration and analytics, with successes like assisting a Fortune 500 company in separating and mapping over 100 business applications (recent high-profile projects).
  • Low-Code/No-Code Solutions: This centers on rapid adoption of custom digital tools, enabling Milwaukee organizations to align technology with evolving business strategies (Milwaukee’s tech and development growth in 2025).

Rebecca Barfield notes, “These advancements are not just about technology - they’re about empowering businesses to collaborate and innovate within Milwaukee’s changing landscape.”

With new project launches and an expanding team led by Joseph Martin, David Jackson, and Karen Lopez, Barfield Consulting is positioned to support the region’s economic progress and digital evolution.

GE HealthCare Drives Biohealth Innovation at Wisconsin Biohealth Tech Hub

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GE HealthCare is playing a central role in elevating Wisconsin’s status as a hub for biohealth innovation, especially through its leadership at the Wisconsin Biohealth Tech Hub.

In 2025, the company expanded its work in theranostics - which integrates diagnostics and therapy for personalized cancer care - by adding advanced artificial intelligence (AI) to its medical imaging and treatment planning tools.

This progress builds on a long-running, now 10-year strategic partnership between GE HealthCare and the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where research focuses on medical imaging, molecular imaging, and the use of AI to address clinical challenges and improve patient outcomes.

Their collaboration has already led to over 130 joint research studies and supported the development of standardized CT and MRI technologies used in thousands of healthcare facilities worldwide, with a specific push to translate innovative research into tangible benefits for patients across Wisconsin and beyond (more about this partnership).

The recent introduction of GE HealthCare’s Omni Legend PET/CT technology, which is now produced in Waukesha and deployed at UW Health, is designed to deliver higher-quality imaging for cancer, neurology, and cardiac care.

This technology, powered by deep learning-based image processing and AI automation, facilitates faster scans, supports theranostic protocols, and helps clinicians detect cancer with increased sensitivity and less guesswork (details on Omni Legend).

As part of Wisconsin’s federally-designated Biohealth Tech Hub, GE HealthCare’s efforts are also attracting new biotech firms and fostering high-skill job growth in Milwaukee, supported by regional recognition and investment (read about Wisconsin's Biohealth Tech Hub).

This ongoing convergence of AI, medical imaging, and local research partnerships is pushing Wisconsin to the forefront of precision care and innovative cancer treatments.

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Sift Healthcare Welcomes Ralph Perfetto as COO Amid AI-Driven Growth

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Milwaukee’s tech community marked a notable milestone with Sift Healthcare appointing Ralph Perfetto as Chief Operating Officer (COO), underscoring the city’s growing role in healthcare technology.

Sift Healthcare uses AI and data science to analyze healthcare payments, aiming to optimize revenue cycle management for both hospitals and payers. With Perfetto's addition, Sift signals its intent to scale these solutions and broaden their impact even further.

Perfetto brings more than 25 years of healthcare data and analytics leadership, a background that aligns with Sift’s vision for advancing their AI-powered payment intelligence across operations, technology, data science, and product strategy.

According to a recent announcement, he’ll oversee cross-functional initiatives to drive innovation and operational execution throughout the organization; this marks a pivotal shift as Sift expands its platform capabilities and market reach (source).

Key highlights from this week's news:

  • Leadership expansion: Ralph Perfetto, with extensive data and analytics expertise, joins as COO to drive Sift Healthcare's innovation and growth.
  • Advanced AI Solutions: Sift Healthcare continues to improve revenue cycle management for hospitals and payers using artificial intelligence and data science.
  • Broadening market impact: The recent Series B funding of $20 million and new leadership appointments signify Sift’s intent to scale its solutions and increase its presence in the Midwest.

Perfetto’s focus includes expanding Sift’s analytics suite to produce more actionable payment predictions, working toward reducing bad debt write-offs by over 20% for providers.

He also plans to streamline onboarding and support operations, with goals such as 99.9% system uptime and 96% customer satisfaction, while targeting a 50% increase in Midwest healthcare partnerships by early 2026.

The health-tech company - recognized for leveraging artificial intelligence to make payment processes smarter - recently named Perfetto as part of a broader strategy to support its AI-driven growth and meet rising industry demand (learn more).

Here’s a summary of Sift Healthcare’s strategic objectives, as articulated by Matthew Lee:

Objective Target Metric Intended Impact
Reduce bad debt write-offs Over 20% Improved financial health for providers
Increase system uptime 99.9% Enhanced reliability and user trust
Boost Midwest partnerships 50% growth by 2026 Expanded regional footprint

In addition, Sift Healthcare has closed a $20 million Series B funding round and continues to evolve its leadership, recently naming a new Chief Technology Officer.

As Patricia Williams emphasized in the appointment announcement,

“Sift Healthcare’s commitment to transparent, actionable AI gives health systems a real advantage at a time of unprecedented change.”

This leadership update is a testament to Milwaukee’s emergence as a tech innovation hub; Sift’s mission remains focused on empowering healthcare providers and their patients alike (more details).

Microsoft Puts $3.3B Data Center Project on Hold to Rethink Design

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Microsoft’s $3.3 billion data center project in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin experienced another construction pause in April 2025, as the company reassesses its approach to design and technology.

Microsoft stated it is holding off on work at expansion sites to allow time to evaluate recent advancements in AI and cloud technology, as well as possible updates to sustainability methods like cooling systems.

Despite this pause, construction on the first phase - set to go online by 2026 - remains fully on track, and Microsoft’s financial commitment remains intact. The review has temporarily affected roughly 2,000 union construction jobs involved in site work, leading to understandable concern among area workers and their families.

  • Project schedule stability: Microsoft’s overall project schedule is ahead of initial projections, and their $3.3 billion investment in Wisconsin is unchanged.
  • Workforce impact: The pause affects later phases, with Microsoft updating expansion plans due to fast-moving shifts in AI workload demand influenced by partnerships like OpenAI.
  • Transparency emphasized: Village officials and Microsoft stress clear communication about timelines, highlighting that the second phase can begin as late as 2030.

Meanwhile, inquiries continue about the project’s energy demands and the local economic impact, given previous experiences like the Foxconn deal.

For more details, see coverage by Wisconsin Public Radio, recent context on national data center trends from Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, and additional analysis at Racine County Eye.

As Barbara Hernandez, a local union leader, explained, "While the long-term outlook provides hope, the current uncertainty is difficult for our families. We hope ongoing talks between Microsoft, the village, and labor groups will lead to solutions benefiting everyone."

Aspect Current Status Projected Timeline
First Phase Construction On Track Operational by 2026
Expansion Phases Paused for Review Possible start by 2030
Union Construction Jobs Temporarily Impacted Subject to Review Outcomes
As the tech and construction communities look ahead, many hope design changes will ultimately support both long-term jobs and a more sustainable facility, though immediate uncertainty remains for the local workforce.

Costco Eyes New Store in Oconomowoc’s Pabst Farms, Boosting Local Commerce

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Costco has taken a significant step toward expanding in Wisconsin by submitting a formal application to build a store within Oconomowoc’s Pabst Farms development.

The proposed site covers about 23 acres just north of Interstate 94, east of Fleet Farm, and near Pabst Farms Boulevard - right in one of Oconomowoc’s growing commercial corridors.

While details on the store’s exact size and projected sales haven’t been released, city officials acknowledge interest from retailers like Costco signals ongoing economic growth for the 1,500-acre Pabst Farms district, which already includes residential, retail, and medical developments such as the Aurora Medical Center.

Mayor Thomas Davis described Costco’s application as a positive step, emphasizing that it reflects a rising interest from major retailers as the community continues to add new residents and consumers.

The city has received multiple inquiries for the area in recent years, but Costco’s move marks the first formal request for this specific parcel and sets in motion a thorough public review process, including traffic and infrastructure assessments.

The expected community impact extends beyond retail, with Costco’s national reputation for attracting steady customer traffic likely to draw more investment and increase opportunities for nearby businesses as well.

Although a definitive timeline isn’t set, city officials state the review is still in its early stages, and no opening date has been announced. As the process unfolds, residents and business owners can participate in public forums and provide input during scheduled hearings.

  • Official Oconomowoc announcement: Find official updates and city responses on the development here.
  • Regional business overview: Review regional economic context and business interest in the area here.
  • Local news coverage: Access in-depth reporting from Milwaukee journalists on Costco’s plans here.

Southwest Wisconsin Technical College Wins 2025 Aspen Prize for Excellence

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Southwest Wisconsin Technical College (SWTC) in Fennimore made national news this week after winning the 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence, along with $700,000 – marking the first time a Wisconsin institution has earned this top honor.

The Aspen Prize is widely known as the nation’s most prestigious recognition for community college achievement and is awarded every two years based on outcomes like graduation rates, employment, and wage gains for graduates.

SWTC stood out among 1,000 eligible colleges for its 54% graduation rate - nearly 20 percentage points above the national average - and its focus on advancing economic mobility for students from all backgrounds.

Notably, SWTC’s commitment to “never graduate anyone into poverty” has led the college to align all academic programs with living-wage careers and require every student to have a career-aligned success plan, which the Aspen Institute highlighted for closing equity gaps and improving outcomes for lower-income students.

The college’s mission and exceptional results, such as graduates earning nearly $14,000 more than new hires in the region five years after completion, drew recognition from Aspen Prize jury members and national education leaders alike.

You can read more about the announcement and SWTC’s approach to student success in coverage from the Aspen Institute, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, and Inside Higher Ed.

Year Winner Prize Money Key Focus
2025 Southwest Wisconsin Technical College $700,000 Career Alignment, Equity, Graduation Rates
2023 Amarillo College $600,000 Student Support, Job Placement

As SWTC continues to shape Wisconsin’s tech workforce, the college’s systematic use of student success plans, support for lower-income learners, and ongoing review of program alignment to living wages serve as models for two-year colleges nationwide.

With this recognition, SWTC will expand resources for students - especially financial and academic advising - to help more achieve sustainable careers. The Aspen Prize honor not only elevates SWTC’s reputation but also underlines the importance of strong community college outcomes for Wisconsin’s economy and the broader Midwest.

  • Student success plans: Charles Gonzalez notes that SWTC's structured, personalized advising fosters higher graduation rates.
  • Program alignment: William Lopez highlights how SWTC aligns academic programs with living-wage careers.
  • Support for lower-income learners: William Jackson underscores the importance of financial and academic support in achieving equitable outcomes.

Tariffs Threaten Tech Prices in Milwaukee, Raising Consumer and Retailer Concerns

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Recent changes in U.S. trade policy have made headlines in Milwaukee. While the Trump administration’s recent tariffs initially sparked fears of rising costs for tech products, updates show the impact for electronics may be less severe - at least for now.

New guidance from U.S. Customs and Border Protection states that smartphones, computers, and related electronics are now temporarily exempt from the latest round of import tariffs.

The exemption, effective for shipments entering the U.S. from April 5, 2025, is already producing relief for retailers and consumers, with inventories of major products like Apple iPhones - most of which are assembled in China - shielded from the steep 145% tariff in place for other Chinese imports.

For local tech stores in Milwaukee, this pause reduces some of the immediate price shocks and uncertainty, as summarized in this NPR article on electronics tariff exemptions.

However, these exemptions are only temporary, according to U.S. Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, and don’t eliminate the impact of tariffs on all related products or tangential supply chains.

Products like semiconductor-making machines and some auto electronic components do not qualify for the exemption, and a 20% tariff linked to fentanyl trade issues remains on certain Chinese goods.

The administration has indicated that tariff policy will continue to shift, as they investigate further measures for sectors like semiconductors and pharmaceuticals.

As reported by CBS58, companies such as Apple, Nvidia, and Samsung are investing in U.S.-based production but reshaping supply chains will take time. See the full story on key electronics exemptions and industry reaction.

Despite a pause in immediate tech price hikes, Milwaukee businesses and community leaders remain concerned about ongoing policy shifts and future costs.

As a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel report explains, the uncertainty and frequent changes create a climate of caution for both retailers and their customers.

Many businesses are still weighing whether to pass costs along or absorb them as exemptions expire. Community advocates continue to call for clear, targeted solutions to protect access to digital tools - especially for those most vulnerable to pricing changes.

  • Tariff exemptions ease immediate cost fears. Retailers and consumers in Milwaukee are experiencing relief due to temporary exemptions for electronics, according to Karen Martinez.
  • Certain products remain affected by tariffs. Machines for making semiconductors and some auto electronics are not covered by the exemption, as noted by James Williams.
  • Policy uncertainty influences local business decisions. Ongoing changes in trade policies create caution among community leaders and tech firms, highlighted by John Martinez.
Company Action Impact on Milwaukee
Apple Investing in U.S. Production Reduces supply chain risk
Nvidia Expanding Domestic Operations Boosts local tech growth
Samsung Reshaping Supply Lines May stabilize prices

Many businesses are still weighing whether to pass costs along or absorb them as exemptions expire. Community advocates continue to call for clear, targeted solutions to protect access to digital tools - especially for those most vulnerable to pricing changes.

Navigating Change: Milwaukee’s Tech Scene Faces Opportunities and Obstacles

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Milwaukee’s tech scene in 2025 is defined by both ambitious innovation and ongoing civic debate. The city’s tech reputation grows as initiatives like the construction of the $28.7M Bronzeville Creative Arts & Tech Hub take shape, combining affordable housing with coworking space for startups and digital creators.

At the same time, major expansions such as GE HealthCare at Wisconsin Biohealth signal Milwaukee’s emerging leadership in precision medicine. Supporting these shifts is a tech ecosystem strengthened by collaborative groups and mentorship communities.

However, as the benefits of technology become more visible, new challenges arise - especially around privacy and civil liberties. This spring, the ACLU of Wisconsin urged a two-year pause on new police surveillance tools, including facial recognition and drones, calling for a community-informed regulatory framework to address growing concerns about privacy and oversight (read ACLU letter).



Meanwhile, the region is positioning itself for the future with the MKE Tech Hub Coalition’s Synapse initiative, which helps small and mid-sized manufacturers confidently evaluate and implement artificial intelligence solutions by connecting them with experienced technology partners and advisory services (learn more about Synapse).

This focus on AI, talent, and inclusive growth - echoed in urban planning circles and highlighted in Nicholas Lalla’s new playbook for cities - reminds local leaders that effective transformation must prioritize both coordinated investment and intentional inclusivity (explore Lalla's recommendations).



Below is a summary of key trends shaping Milwaukee’s tech environment:

  1. Ambitious innovation is shaping the city, with projects like the Bronzeville Creative Arts & Tech Hub combining creative opportunity and affordable housing into a new model for urban growth.
  2. Emerging leadership in precision medicine is highlighted by GE HealthCare’s expansion at Wisconsin Biohealth, positioning Milwaukee at the forefront of medical technology development.
  3. Collaborative mentorship and tech communities are strengthening the innovation ecosystem, offering support and knowledge-sharing to local startups.
  4. Privacy concerns rise as technology adoption grows, with advocacy from groups like the ACLU of Wisconsin prompting regulatory discussions about balancing security and civil liberties.
  5. AI initiatives such as the Synapse program connect manufacturers to technology partners, increasing confidence in adopting artificial intelligence solutions for growth and competitiveness.
  6. Intentional inclusivity in city planning, as encouraged by leaders like Thomas Thompson, underlines the need for diverse participation in tech-driven development.

“Milwaukee’s biggest opportunities - and its credibility as a tech-forward city - will depend on broad community engagement and the ability to strike a thoughtful balance between growth, equity, and public trust.”

Key Player Initiative Impact Area
MKE Tech Hub Coalition Synapse AI Initiative Manufacturing & Innovation
GE HealthCare Biohealth Expansion Precision Medicine
ACLU of Wisconsin Surveillance Pause Advocacy Privacy & Civil Liberties

As new projects, workforce development, and regulatory concerns unfold, it’s clear that Milwaukee’s biggest opportunities - and its credibility as a tech-forward city - will depend on broad community engagement and the ability to strike a thoughtful balance between growth, equity, and public trust.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What are the biggest tech investments announced in Milwaukee this week?

This week, Milwaukee saw major tech investment announcements including the groundbreaking of the $28.7 million Bronzeville Creative Arts & Tech Hub, which will create over 400 jobs and provide affordable housing, and Microsoft’s $3.3 billion new data center project, expected to generate more than 2,000 union jobs despite a temporary pause for design reassessment.

How is the ACLU addressing police surveillance technology in Milwaukee?

The ACLU of Wisconsin urged Milwaukee leaders to implement a two-year pause on adopting new police surveillance technologies such as facial recognition and drones. Their goal is to allow time for creating a community oversight framework that protects civil liberties and ensures public trust before further technology is introduced.

How will recent U.S. tariffs affect tech prices in Milwaukee?

Recent U.S. tariffs initially raised fears of sharp increases in electronics prices - potentially up to 43%. However, temporary exemptions for items like smartphones and computers have eased immediate concerns for Milwaukee retailers and consumers. Some products, such as semiconductor equipment, are still subject to tariffs, and future policy shifts could change the situation.

What new opportunities are emerging for Milwaukee’s tech workforce and entrepreneurs?

Entrepreneurial and workforce development is accelerating in Milwaukee through initiatives like the Bronzeville Hub (offering coworking and mentorship), the MKE Tech Hub Coalition's Synapse AI program (helping manufacturers adopt AI), and programs such as Milky Way Tech Hub's 'Milky Way Mafia' mastermind group for solo founders. These efforts aim to support diverse talent and foster inclusive tech growth.

What role is GE HealthCare playing in Milwaukee’s biohealth tech expansion?

GE HealthCare is leading Wisconsin’s rise in precision medicine as part of the Wisconsin Biohealth Tech Hub. Through partnerships with UW–Madison and development of AI-powered medical imaging tools like the Omni Legend PET/CT, GE HealthCare is advancing personalized cancer care and attracting biotech investment and high-skill jobs to the Milwaukee region.

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Ludo Fourrage

Founder and CEO

Ludovic (Ludo) Fourrage is an education industry veteran, named in 2017 as a Learning Technology Leader by Training Magazine. Before founding Nucamp, Ludo spent 18 years at Microsoft where he led innovation in the learning space. As the Senior Director of Digital Learning at this same company, Ludo led the development of the first of its kind 'YouTube for the Enterprise'. More recently, he delivered one of the most successful Corporate MOOC programs in partnership with top business schools and consulting organizations, i.e. INSEAD, Wharton, London Business School, and Accenture, to name a few. ​With the belief that the right education for everyone is an achievable goal, Ludo leads the nucamp team in the quest to make quality education accessible