With 2025 just around the corner, the Office of Business Engagement team is reflecting on the efforts, accomplishments, relationships and new connections that shaped another year forward through greater engagement and deeper connections with industry partners.
Here are some of our top highlights:
UW–Madison surpasses $1.7 billion in research expenditures
Topping $1.7 billion in research expenditures, UW–Madison rose two places to sixth out of 920 public and private universities surveyed by the National Science Foundation in the Higher Education Research and Development (HERD) survey. The survey showed a 13.7% overall increase in research expenditures at UW–Madison over the previous fiscal year, including a 14% increase in industry-sponsored research expenditures to $46 million in FY23. Related: Federal funds awarded for biohealth, with UW–Madison leading the way
Welcoming new campus leaders
This year saw two key additions to the campus leadership team. Craig Thompson, a government affairs professional with more than 30 years of experience across local, county, state and federal levels, became vice chancellor for university relations in August. Dorota A. Grejner-Brzezinska, a longtime Ohio State University engineering professor and GPS researcher, started as vice chancellor for research in September.
OBE hits the airwaves
OBE Managing Director John Garnetti sat down with the hosts of WisBusiness: the Podcast to discuss the office’s impact on Wisconsin’s business community, providing examples of how OBE works with companies in the state through a variety of programs. As John said in his interview, “We go into all of our relationships, all of our conversations thinking about win-win outcomes. How does it benefit the company, how does it benefit the university around shared interests? And if we can make it a win-win-win, where that relationship benefits a larger community, the larger Wisconsin community… that’s a homerun for us.”
Sustaining partnerships, progress with Business Sustainability Leadership Forum
This fall, the Business Sustainability Leadership Forum marked its one-year anniversary. Since its start, BSLF partners have worked to refine the group’s scope and mission. In conjunction with the Sustainability Research Hub, it has developed a strong network of leading experts on campus. The work continues in tandem with UW–Madison’s RISE-EARTH initiative, which will accelerate the growth of UW–Madison’s environmental sustainability research, adding up to 40 new campus-funded hires at all levels across the university.
Innovative, streamlined IP models unveiled
With the Badger IP Industry Advantage program, companies interested in conducting research through the university can avoid some of the speed bumps that have slowed the transfer of technology from research to product. The program makes research agreements and associated intellectual property licensing more transparent, simpler and mostly negotiation-free on fair terms. Related: UW–Madison unveils strategic vision to boost entrepreneurship
Experiential learning unlocks potential of students and employers
Experiential learning at UW–Madison, whether a practicum, an internship, or a capstone course, is more than a classroom concept. It’s a transformative approach that prepares students for the professional world and provides employers with fresh insights. Hands-on learning experiences found in nearly every discipline on campus set up students and partner companies for success. Related: As international interns, Badger engineers learn the ropes of shipbuilding in Italy with Fincantieri
Statewide connections
In 2024, UW–Madison wrapped its celebration of the university’s 175th anniversary. OBE joined the Wisconsin Alumni Association and other campus leaders and partners in recognizing the many partnerships with communities and businesses across Wisconsin and beyond that have helped the university forge a legacy of impact. This year, the 175th state tour took OBE to Fox Valley, Rock County, the Chippewa Valley, and Milwaukee/Waukesha County. We also joined Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin on several outreach trips this fall, including visits to our friends at Colony Brands in Green County.
Looking ahead
The year ahead promises more opportunities for engagement, connection and growth. We will continue to welcome industry representatives to campus and join Chancellor Mnookin as she connects with business partners around the state. And our team remains ready to connect you to the university resources, opportunities and talent to meet your business needs. Reach out to OBE to get started.
In 2025, we are also looking for the state of Wisconsin to re-invest in UW–Madison during the state biennial budget process. Partners like you are essential advocates for the university, and we invite you to explore ways to support advocacy efforts for UW–Madison and Universities of Wisconsin.