EntreCon® Midwest 2026 will bring together entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community champions from across the Midwest to Beloit for an experience featuring national keynote speakers, regional business leaders, interactive workshops, and intentional networking opportunities designed to help individuals and organizations grow stronger—together.

Nationally Recognized Keynote Speakers:

Bert Thornton, President/COO-Vice Chairman Emeritus, Waffle House, Inc.
Greg Hughes, Senior Vice President of Communications, NBC Sports
Jane Blain Gilbertson, Executive Chair & Owner, Blain’s Farm & Fleet
Konya Hendricks-Schuh, Betting On Beloit, A&E Series

Three Conference Tracks Focused on Impact:

Leadership – Developing strong teams and leading with clarity
Entrepreneurship – Scaling sustainable businesses and driving innovation
Community – Building partnerships and collaborative ecosystems

Participating Chambers of Commerce:

Beloit Chamber of Commerce
Forward Janesville
Greater Rockford Chamber of Commerce
Stateline Chamber of Commerce
Fort Atkinson Chamber of Commerce
Edgerton Chamber of Commerce
Monona East Side Business Association
Delavan Chamber of Commerce
Monona East Side Business Alliance
Milton Chamber of Commerce
Dane Buy Local
DeForest Windsor Area Chamber of Commerce
Sun Prairie Chamber of Commerce
Oregon Chamber of Commerce
WI Veterans Chamber of Commerce

Event Leadership Perspectives:

“EntreCon Midwest exists to connect leaders and entrepreneurs who want to grow with intention. When we combine strong leadership, innovative thinking, and community collaboration, the impact goes far beyond individual organizations, and that’s exactly what this conference is designed to activate and grow.”
— Kelsey Paasch, Owner & Founder, Contour Consulting

“EntreCon Midwest provides a unique platform where education, business, and community intersect. These conversations help prepare today’s leaders and future Leaders, for thoughtful, purpose‑driven decision‑making that strengthens both organizations and communities.”
— Diep Phan, Director, Beloit College School of Business