MILWAUKEE, WI (July 8, 2025) –Summerfest TechAI wrapped its eighth annual event with record growth and expanded programming, further establishing itself as Milwaukee’s premiere tech conference. Held June 23–26, 2025 and produced by Milwaukee World Festival, Inc., the event drew more than 3,200 registrants from 34 states and ten countries - a 15% increase over 2024.
The conference continued to be FREE and open to all attendees, thanks to the participation and support of 127 companies through programming and sponsorship. This year’s Summerfest TechAI showcased an expanded agenda with dedicated content tracks, new tech education courses, and the debut of Entrepreneur Alley—highlighting startups and emerging innovators. Over four days, 117 speakers led 43 sessions, covering topics ranging from artificial intelligence and technology policy to entrepreneurship and future-forward innovations.
“We are thrilled with the continued growth and momentum of Summerfest TechAi and are proud to have curated meaningful, customized experiences for attendees,” said Sarah Pancheri, President and CEO of Milwaukee World Festival, Inc. “As we look ahead to 2026, we remain focused on expanding the reach of the conference and delivering innovative programming, while strengthening the region as a tech hub.”
Programming Highlights for Summerfest TechAI:
- AI Insights: Notable keynotes from AI Scientist Eric Siegel and Workplace Performance Expert Henna Pryor.
- Entrepreneur Alley: Showcased startup founders from cities including Chicago, New York, San Diego, Atlanta, and more.
- Pitch Competition: Sponsored by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, Generac, Inflect Health, and Molson Coors, the competition drew over 112 entries from around the world, across four categories, with 16 startup finalists, who pitched in person during the conference. Winners received $5,000 along with the opportunity to meet with corporate executives, investors, and interview for the next gener8tor program. The winners in each category can be found HERE.
- Public Affairs Content: For the first time, the conference engaged with public officials to incorporate Wisconsin technology efforts and planning into programming. Representative Shannon Zimmerman and State of Wisconsin Chief Information Officer Trina Zanow addressed consumer data privacy, and Senator Dora Drake discussed the WIN Bill and its potential impact on Wisconsin during the FinTech track.
- Tech Community Impact Award: Presented to Nadiyah Johnson of Jet Constellation, Milky Way Tech Hub, and WI Tech Month for advancing DEI and tech growth in Milwaukee.
Summerfest TechAI 2025 programming will be available for on-demand viewing HERE starting on Monday, July 28, 2025.
Sponsors of Summerfest 2025 included: 7Rivers, 8x8, AE Business Solutions, Allére Group, American Digital, BMO, Capital Data, Carroll University, CCB Technology, CDW, Codebaby, Comcast Business, Commvault, Customertimes, Cyera, Datadog, Dell Technologies, Dynatrace, Everstream, Generac, Glean, Heartland Business Systems, Husco, i.c.stars, Inflect Health, Insight, Insight Global, Koantek, KPMG, Light the Hoan, Linker.Finance, MARS Solutions Group, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee 7 Regional Partnership, MKE Tech Hub Coaltion, Molson Coors, Netskope, Nexthink, Nutanix, Nvisia, Okta., Potawatomi Ventures, Pure Storage, Regal Rexnord, Rubrik, Salesforce, Sitecore, Slalom, Sprocket Security, StepCG, TATA Consultancy Services, The Specialized Marketing Group, United Way of Great Milwaukee & Waukesha County, University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee, UScellular Business, Waukesha County Technical College, Women’s Entrepreneurship Week, and Xcentium
Media support provided by Experience Milwaukee. Production support provided by Majic Productions, Inc.
For more information visit Summerfest-Tech.com