Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce Events Newswire

Business After Hours @ OnTap Restaurant at The Brewhouse Inn & Suites 4/14/2026 5:00 PM - 4/14/2026 7:00 PM

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 18:12:49 GMT

You're Invited: Business After Hours at OnTap at The Brewhouse Inn & Suites

Networking On Tap

Join us at OnTap, located inside the historic Brewhouse Inn & Suites in Milwaukee’s Brewery District. Set within the original Pabst Blue Ribbon Brewery, this industrial-chic space offers a one-of-a-kind backdrop for after-work networking.

Meet the Brewhouse Inn & Suites team, sample Wisconsin-inspired pub fare, enjoy a beverage from the cash bar, and take a tour of the historic hotel. Expect a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere that makes it easy to catch up with familiar faces and spark new connections.

Stick around for fun, games, prizes, and a few surprises—and don’t forget your business cards for giveaways.

We hope you’ll join us for a great evening of conversation and connections.

Amtrak Hiawatha West Extension Public Webinar 4/14/2026 7:00 PM - 4/14/2026 9:00 PM

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 14:47:42 GMT

Learn More About the Proposed Amtrak Hiawatha West service at a Public Webinar

Amtrak is working with the Federal Railroad Administration, state and local partners, and host railroads to extend daily Amtrak Hiawatha Service trains to Waukesha, Jefferson and Dane Counties. This project is referred to as Hiawatha West and it is the first phase of a larger effort to implement Amtrak service between Chicago and the Twin Cities via Eau Claire.

Initially, this service would have up to two daily round-trips with a focus on temporary stations in the Pewaukee, Watertown, and Madison areas. This is based on factors such as access to population centers and the spacing of stops, operational feasibility, and ridership potential.

No decisions are final until the end of the planning and environmental clearance process.

The first required step to advance Hiawatha West is the completion of a Service Development Plan. Amtrak is working with its partners to complete the plan and design a project that can be implemented quickly at the lowest cost and generate a strong return on investment.

Amtrak is seeking comments and feedback, starting with a webinar.

WHAT: Webinar on Proposed Amtrak Hiawatha West Service

WHEN: Tuesday, April 14, at 7:00 p.m. CT

WHO: Amtrak Planning and State Partnerships Team

HOW: Register at this link

For more information, including how interested stakeholders can ask questions and provide project feedback, visit https://amtraknewera.com/hiawatha-west/. A recording of the presentation will also be available at that site.

Breakfast Briefing Series: Non-Competes & Restrictive Covenants: Drafting for Enforceability 4/15/2026 8:30 AM - 4/15/2026 9:30 AM

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 14:47:20 GMT

Restrictive covenant agreements remain a critical tool for protecting business interests – but evolving legal standards and enforcement trends require careful drafting and strategic planning. Small technical missteps can significantly impact enforceability.

Join partner Chris Green and associate Marissa Borschke for a practical Breakfast Briefing focused on strengthening non-compete and related agreements. This session will provide employers with actionable guidance on drafting enforceable provisions and avoiding common legal pitfalls.

Topics will include:

Drafting enforceable non-compete, non-solicitation, and confidentiality provisions;
Addressing key technical requirements such as consideration and choice of law; and
Understanding enforcement trends, common pitfalls, and proactive risk-reduction strategies.

Closing the Deal: The Ultimate Sales Training in Milwaukee 4/17/2026 8:30 AM - 4/17/2026 2:30 PM

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:25:46 GMT

Ready to take your sales game to the next level? The Middle Six® offers dynamic, hands-on sales training designed to help small business owners and sales professionals sharpen their skills, master the art of selling, and close more deals. From understanding sales psychology to perfecting in-person and digital selling techniques, our comprehensive workshops are tailored to give you real-world strategies that work.

A light breakfast, lunch, and free on-site parking are included.

Join us in Milwaukee and discover how to turn every lead into a loyal customer!

MMAC Town Hall with Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez 4/21/2026 11:30 AM - 4/21/2026 1:00 PM

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 16:31:16 GMT

Town Hall Series: Wisconsin Gubernatorial Candidates

The Town Hall series brings together the candidates for Governor of Wisconsin for a timely, issues-focused conversation on the future of the state. Designed to inform and engage, each session provides a forum for candidates to share their priorities, outline their vision for Wisconsin, and respond to questions on topics that matter most to communities, employers, and residents.

Town Hall Session #4: Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez

Hear from Lt. Governor Sara Rodriguez, a Democrat whose campaign is focused on lowering costs for families, expanding access to affordable healthcare, defending reproductive rights, and strengthening public schools. As a former nurse and executive, Sara centers her platform on her experience in healthcare and economic stability.

This town hall-style meeting will be led by the MMAC President, Dale Kooyenga.

AGENDA:
11:30AM - 12:00PM | Lunch & Networking
12:00PM - 1:00PM | Program

Held at the MMAC, these events connect members with elected officials and other community leaders to hear about topics of interest or discuss specific upcoming legislation. Not sure if you're a member? Check here or contact Becky Glass (bglass@mmac.org).

MMAC Member Orientation 4/22/2026 8:00 AM - 4/22/2026 9:30 AM

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 18:12:26 GMT

Take a customized journey through the MMAC and learn how to maximize your membership.

This briefing shows you what tools are available to help your business grow and provides opportunities to become involved. Whether you are a new member, ‘seasoned’ member or prospective member, come learn about what the MMAC does for you.

AGENDA
8:00AM - 8:30:AM - Registration and Networking
8:30AM - 9:30 AM - Program

MMAC Town Hall with Mandela Barnes 4/23/2026 11:30 AM - 4/23/2026 1:00 PM

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 16:31:37 GMT

Town Hall Series: Wisconsin Gubernatorial Candidates

Town Hall Session #5: Mandela Barnes

Former Wisconsin Lieutenant Governor, Mandela Barnes will discuss his Democratic campaign centering on getting things done "The Wisconsin Way" - to lower costs and promote stability at the state level. His platform prioritizes expanding BadgerCare and creating a public option, delivering middle-class tax cuts, ensuring universal childcare, and strengthening WI agriculture. Drawing on his experience in state government, Mandela will be focusing on addressing economic challenges that are facing the working famlies across Wisconsin.

This town hall-style meeting will be led by the MMAC President, Dale Kooyenga.

AGENDA:
11:30AM - 12:00PM | Lunch & Networking
12:00PM - 1:00PM | Program

Business BEFORE Hours with FaB Wisconsin at Rely Contract Manufacturing 4/23/2026 8:00 AM - 4/23/2026 10:00 AM

Mon, 02 Mar 2026 18:36:03 GMT

You’re Invited: MMAC & FaB Wisconsin Business BEFORE Hours at Rely Contract Manufacturing

MMAC, FaB Wisconsin, and Rely Contract Manufacturing invite you to a special collaborative networking morning on Thursday, April 23, from 8:00-10:00 AM.

Start your morning at Rely Contract Manufacturing for a Business BEFORE Hours networking event featuring coffee, tea, and conversation. Connect with fellow manufacturing and business leaders, learn more about Rely's contract manufacturing capabilities and meet Engauge Workforce Solutions, a workforce partner supporting manufacturers with flexible staffing and talent solutions. Rely Contract Manufacturing and Engauge Workforce Solutions are proud dual members of MMAC and FaB Wisconsin, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening the region’s manufacturing community.

Join us for an inside look at Engauge and RELY at their newly expanded facility and learn how the two sister companies support manufacturers through a fully integrated approach.

Founded in 1997, Engauge Workforce Solutions designs and manages workforce systems for manufacturers and distributors, from large-scale contingent labor programs to specialized recruiting across manufacturing and distribution. The woman-owned, family-led company serves a broad range of industries and has achieved nearly 90% revenue growth since 2019.

RELY Contract Manufacturing, founded in 2019, grew out of Engauge as an incubator concept and is now a stand-alone sister company. RELY takes on labor-intensive secondary operations—including assembly, kitting and fulfillment, rework and testing, and wire harnesses and control panels—helping manufacturers free up capacity and reduce operational complexity.

Together, Engauge and RELY help manufacturers protect margins, reduce operational strain, and grow with greater flexibility.

Madison Night in Milwaukee 4/28/2026 5:00 PM - 4/28/2026 7:00 PM

Thu, 22 Jan 2026 17:18:46 GMT

We're bringing Madison to Milwaukee!
Seize this opportunity to join business and community leaders at MMAC’s annual reception thanking state elected officials for all the work they do and showcasing the Milwaukee region and its companies. Working together, we are making the Southeast Wisconsin region a world-class business location. Don't miss this chance to connect, innovate, and drive meaningful change at Madison Night—the cornerstone event for shaping the future of our region's prosperity.

Grand Opening: ArchWell Health Harambee 4/28/2026 11:00 AM - 4/28/2026 1:00 PM

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 14:33:54 GMT

BizTimes Bourbon & Brokers 4/29/2026 4:30 PM - 4/29/2026 7:00 PM

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 20:39:57 GMT

Bourbon & Brokers
You’re invited to BizTimes Media’s networking event designed especially for real estate professionals.

Bourbon, business, and big opportunities—that’s what BizTimes Media’s Bourbon & Brokers is all about. Whether you’re a broker, developer, or serve the real estate industry, this is where the right people come to connect. Raise a glass, expand your network, and be part of the conversation that shapes Milwaukee real estate.

Your ticket includes complimentary drinks and hors d’oeuvres including allocated bourbon, beer, wine and cocktails.

We hope to see you there!

*Guests must be 21 years or older with valid proof of ID.

Who Should Attend
Commercial Real Estate professionals including:

» Architects & Engineers
» Attorneys & Accountants
» Bankers
» Brokers
» Developers & building owners

» General contractors and subcontractors
» Leasing Consultants
» Property Managers
» Title and Escrow Officers

Grand Opening: ArchWell Health Mitchell West 4/30/2026 11:00 AM - 4/30/2026 1:00 PM

Tue, 24 Mar 2026 19:45:11 GMT

MMAC Town Hall with Francesca Hong 5/6/2026 11:30 AM - 5/6/2026 1:00 PM

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 18:53:04 GMT

Town Hall Series: Wisconsin Gubernatorial Candidates

Town Hall Session #6: Francesca Hong

Francesca Hong, who became the first Asian American woman elected to the Wisconsin state assembly in 2020, is running on a progressive platform focused on universal childcare, paid leave, expanding BadgerCare, and raising the minimum wage. Her campaign emphasizes economic justice, family support, and a grassroots, corporate-PAC-free approach aimed at delivering bold, structural change for working-class Wisconsinites.

This town hall-style meeting will be led by the MMAC President, Dale Kooyenga.

AGENDA:
11:30AM - 12:00PM | Lunch & Networking
12:00PM - 1:00PM | Program

For the Love of Sales - Mastering Communication & Objection Handling 5/7/2026 3:00 PM - 5/7/2026 5:00 PM

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 19:23:23 GMT

Mastering Communication & Objection Handling

Sales isn't just about what you say - it's about how it's heard. In this interactive, high-energy workshop, you'll uncover why even the best intentions can get "lost in translation" and how to communicate with clarity, confidence, and impact.

Through hands-on exercises and real-world scenarios, we'll break down the art (and science) of effective sales communcation - helping you avoid assumptions, build stronger connections, and truly understand your buyer.

Then, we'll tackle one of the most critical (and often uncomfortable) parts of selling: objections. You'll learn a simple, powerful framework to respond with empathy, creditability, and value - turning pushback into progress.

Whether you're new to sales or a seasoned pro, you'll walk away with practical tools you can use immediately to:
-Communicate more clearly and confidently
-Build trust faster with prospects and clients
-Handle objections without feeling defensive or scripted
-Move conversations - and deals - forward

If you love the idea of winning more business by being more human in your approach to sales... this session is for you.

AGENDA:
3:00-3:30PM | Registration & Networking
3:30-4:45PM | Program
4:45-5:00PM | Questions & Wrap-Up

YOUR SPEAKER:

Lisa Proeber
Founder + Owner

Speaker Bio:
Lisa is a strategic sales leader and coach helps businesses turn potential into predictable revenue. Through a blend of proven frameworks and real-world experience, she empowers teams to build confidence, refine their process, and close more deals. Known for making sales both practical and energizing, she specializes in helping organizations unlock growth by focusing on what matters most - the middle.

About The Middle Six
The Middle Six is a sales and marketing agency dedicated to helping businesses create, fill, and sustain their sales pipeline. Built on the philosophy that success lies in the "middle six" opportunities, the company combines the art and science of sales through tactical planning, process mapping, HubSpot architecture and implimentation, hands-on training and marketing for sales enablement. With a focus on practical strategies and measureable results, The Middle Six empowers teams to turn more opportunities into wins and drive sustainable growth.

WMC American Economic Interest Summit 5/13/2026 8:30 AM - 5/13/2026 4:00 PM

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 23:50:13 GMT

The American Economic Interest Summit will bring together business leaders from across Wisconsin to explore key national priorities, including national security, energy, and emerging technologies.

Please visit here for event agenda and registration.

MMAC Town Hall with Kelda Roys 5/19/2026 11:30 AM - 5/19/2026 1:00 PM

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 19:14:23 GMT

Town Hall Series: Wisconsin Gubernatorial Candidates

Town Hall Session #7: Kelda Roys

Wisconsin State Senator, Kelda Roys, is running on a platform focused on affordability, public education, and reproductive rights. Her campaign highlights lowering healthcare and housing costs, increasing school funding, and protecting access to reproductive healthcare, with an emphasis on making Wisconsin a strong place to live, work, and raise a family.

This town hall-style meeting will be led by the MMAC President, Dale Kooyenga.

AGENDA:
11:30AM - 12:00PM | Lunch & Networking
12:00PM - 1:00PM | Program

Business BEFORE Hours @ 41Fork Exchange at Wantable Cafe 5/20/2026 8:00 AM - 5/20/2026 10:00 AM

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 18:53:37 GMT

You're Invited: Business BEFORE Hours Networking Event
at 41Fork Exchange at Wantable Cafe!

Brewed for Business, Built for Connection

Start your day somewhere delicious. Join us for Business Before Hours at the newly re-imagined 41Fork Exchange at Wantable Café, opening inside Wantable’s headquarters. This hospitality-forward café is designed for connection, creativity, and really good mornings—featuring rotating chef-driven menus, grab-and-go breakfast and lunch options, and high-quality Vennture coffee (yes, the only downtown spot serving it).

Come sip, snack, and check out a welcoming new space built for great ideas, great coffee, and kicking off the day on the right note. Early birds encouraged—coffee will be ready.

BizTimes Biz Expo 5/21/2026 9:00 AM - 5/21/2026 4:30 PM

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 20:42:31 GMT

Celebrating 20 Years of BizTimes BizExpo

Join the region’s leading business owners and executives at the Brookfield Conference Center for a full day focused on growth, strategy, and connection.

Build powerful relationships with southeastern Wisconsin’s business community, engage with local companies shaping tomorrow’s economy, and gain forward-thinking strategies from expert-led sessions.

BizExpo has driven growth and collaboration across the region for two decades. Now it’s your turn to connect, learn, and lead the next wave of success.

BizTimes Family & Closely Held Business Summit 6/4/2026 2:00 PM - 6/4/2026 6:30 PM

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 20:44:10 GMT

Join BizTimes Media and a panel of family and closely held business owners for a discussion on balancing tradition and new ideas, taking strategic risks, making crucial investments, and other keys to growing in a world that often seems to favor consolidation and big corporations.

Family & Closely Held Business Summit

MMAC Member Orientation 6/10/2026 8:00 AM - 6/10/2026 9:30 AM

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 18:13:54 GMT

Take a customized journey through the MMAC and learn how to maximize your membership.

AGENDA
8:00AM - 8:30:AM - Registration and Networking
8:30AM - 9:30 AM - Program

Business After Hours @ Majic Productions 6/11/2026 5:00 PM - 6/11/2026 7:00 PM

Tue, 23 Dec 2025 17:32:21 GMT

You're Invited: Business After Hours at Majic Productions

Step behind the scenes and experience the majic of live events, hosted by Majic Productions.

Based in Waukesha and working across the Midwest and beyond, Majic Productions is a full-service audiovisual, sound, video and lighting production company that has been bringing ideas to life since 1999. Known for creativity, professionalism and a people-first approach, their team produces unforgettable experiences for corporate events, conferences, fundraisers and more.

During this after-hours networking event, connect with fellow professionals while exploring Majic's production space and learning how sound, lighting and video come together to create seamless, high-impact events. With state-of-the-art equipment and custom fabrication capabilities, Majic believes great events are built on passion, collaboration, and attention to detail.

Enjoy light bites and refreshments (provided by Noble Catering), spark new connections and see firsthand how Majic Productions helps bring moments to life.

We hope you'll join us for an evening of networking - and a little majic.

MMAC’s 17th Annual Brewers Outing 6/18/2026 11:30 AM - 6/18/2026 3:30 PM

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 20:38:36 GMT

Take networking out of the boardroom and into the ballpark! Spend the afternoon with fellow executives enjoying Brewers baseball from the Northwestern Mutual Legends Club. Expect great food, cold drinks, prize drawings and plenty of time to network - before first pitch and all the way through the final out.

AGENDA
11:40 am – Pre-Game Networking
1:10 pm – Milwaukee Brewers vs. Cleveland Guardians

TICKETS
*Tickets will be delivered digitally via the email listed on your registration
*Package includes your game ticket, several food options & beverages (2 drinks per person)
*Parking is not included

THE NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL LEGENDS CLUB
The Northwestern Mutual Legends Club is a perfect location to network while watching the game! Located on the Club Level, the Northwestern Mutual Legends Club offers modern furnishings with an indoor and outdoor bar along with 17 LCD televisions. The Northwestern Mutual Legends Club also offers a spectacular view of the American Family field.

The BAH Hop 7/16/2026 4:30 PM - 7/16/2026 7:30 PM

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 17:06:22 GMT

More Information Coming Soon!

BizTimes Non-Profit Excellence Awards 7/23/2026 2:30 PM - 7/23/2026 6:00 PM

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 20:47:26 GMT

Celebrating the Region’s Top Corporate Citizens and Nonprofits

BizTimes Media presents the 13th annual awards program to salute southeastern Wisconsin’s best corporate citizens and most effective nonprofit organizations on July 23, 2026. The awards shine a light on excellence in philanthropy and nonprofit leadership.

Nomination Deadline: April 3, 2026

Visit Nonprofit Excellence Awards for more information and to nominate!

MMAC Annual Golf Outing 8/10/2026 8:30 AM - 8/10/2026 6:00 PM

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 20:39:44 GMT

Save The Date!

For the Love of Sales - Modern Sales in the Age of AI 8/13/2026 3:00 PM - 8/13/2026 5:00 PM

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 13:52:27 GMT

Modern Sales in the Age of AI: How to Stay Relevant and Close More Deals

Sales is changing! Today's buyers are more informed, more independent and often further along in their decision-making before ever speaking with a salesperson.

At the same time, AI is reshaping how sales professionals research, communicate and close deals. With so much noise surrounding tools and tactics, it can be difficult to know where to start or what actually works.

In this practical, no-fluff session, Lori Highby breaks down how to use AI to sell smarter, move faster and show up more prepared in every interaction.

Designed for both business owners and sales professionals, this session blends strategy with real-world application so you can immediately put AI to work in your sales process. Attendees will learn:
-How AI is changing the modern buying journey (and what it means for your sales approach)
-Where AI fits into your current sales process
-Practical ways to use AI to prepare for meetings, write better outreach and think more strategically
-How to use AI as a "thinking partner" to improve confidence and decision-making
-The most common mistakes people make with AI in sales

AGENDA:
3:00-3:30PM | Registration & Networking
3:30-4:45PM | Program
4:45-5:00PM | Questions & Wrap-Up

YOUR SPEAKER:

Lori Highby
CEO & Founder

Speaker Bio:
Lori has over two decades of experience in digital marketing and sales alignment, Lori specialized in bridging the gap between strategy and execution. She is a nationally recognized speaker, workshop facilitator, and instructor for the Agency Management Institute, teaching marketing and agency professionals how to think more strategically, communicate more effectively, and leverage emerging technologies like AI in practical, impactful ways. A frequent speaker on AI, marketing, and business growth, Lori's approach is grounded, actionable, and focused on helping professionals apply what they learn immediately.

About Keystone Click
Keystone Click is a strategic digital marketing agency that helps B2B organizations - particularly in construction, manufacturing, and professional services - generate leads and drive measurable business growth. With a strong focus on SEO, AI-driven marketing, and customer journey optimization, Keystone Click partners with organizations to build scalable marketing systems that align with how modern buyers research and make decisions. Known for its research-first approach and commitment to doing things the right way, Keystone Click acts as a trusted partner to clients seeking clarity, consistency, and long-term results.

BizTimes Women in Business Symposium 8/21/2026 7:30 AM - 8/21/2026 12:00 Noon

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 20:49:13 GMT

This half-day symposium filled with valuable insights will help you take your career and leadership skills to the next level. Hear a panel of women from a range of industries discuss their journeys, attend breakout sessions to go deeper on important topics, network with women from across the southeastern Wisconsin business community and join in celebrating the 2025 Woman Executive of the Year.

For Speakers and Additional Information, please visit Women in Business Symposium

AGENDA
7:30-8:00AM | Networking & Breakfast
8:00-10:00AM | Welcome & Program
10:20-12:00PM | Breakout Sessions

MMAC Member Orientation 9/3/2026 8:00 AM - 9/3/2026 9:30 AM

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 18:15:35 GMT

Take a customized journey through the MMAC and learn how to maximize your membership.

AGENDA
8:00AM - 8:30:AM - Registration and Networking
8:30AM - 9:30 AM - Program

36th Annual Milwaukee Night in Washington D.C 9/23/2026 5:30 PM - 9/23/2026 7:30 PM

Fri, 06 Feb 2026 20:02:00 GMT

More Information Coming Soon!

BizTimes Madwaukee2050 10/22/2026

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 20:55:00 GMT

This signature event focuses on the unique opportunities and challenges facing the counties in the corridor between Milwaukee and Madison (Milwaukee, Waukesha, Jefferson and Dane). We’ll explore avenues for growth throughout the MadWaukee corridor, focusing on economic development, accessibility, training, transportation, and the transformative potential of emerging industries and new technologies.

More information to follow

For the Love of Sales - The Gift of Critical Feedback 11/12/2026 3:00 PM - 11/12/2026 5:00 PM

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 19:33:18 GMT

More Information Coming Soon!

BizTimes Commercial Real Estate & Development Conference 11/18/2026

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 20:55:59 GMT

The annual Commercial Real Estate and Development Conference, presented by BizTimes Milwaukee, the Vieth Institute for Real Estate Leadership at Marquette University and the Commercial Association of Realtors Wisconsin (CARW), is southeastern Wisconsin’s premier networking and information event for the industry. This conference examines the latest trends in commercial real estate and development and explores the possibilities for the year ahead.

More details to follow

MMAC Member Orientation 11/19/2026 8:00 AM - 11/19/2026 9:30 AM

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 18:15:56 GMT

Take a customized journey through the MMAC and learn how to maximize your membership.

AGENDA
8:00AM - 8:30:AM - Registration and Networking
8:30AM - 9:30 AM - Program