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gener8tor
gener8tor runs 40+ accelerator and venture programs from Madison, WI, investing pre-seed checks of $100K into Midwest startups since 2012.
gener8tor
gener8tor is an SEC-registered investment adviser in Madison, WI, established in 2023. It advises on investment strategies. The firm is based in Wisconsin.
General information
Firm type
Venture Capital
Year founded
2012
AUM
Undisclosed
Location
Region
North America
Country
United States
City
Madison
Corporate office
Madison, WI, United States
Additional offices
Milwaukee, WI · Minneapolis, MN
Principals
Joe Kirgues
Co-Founder
Troy Vosseller
Co-Founder
Sector focus
Frequently asked questions
How does gener8tor's accelerator model differ from a traditional VC firm?
gener8tor operates accelerator programs that are heavily subsidized by corporate sponsors and state grants, reducing the firm's own capital at risk per cohort. It typically invests $100,000 for 6% equity in each accelerator participant. This structure allows the firm to generate a high volume of early-stage deal flow across the Midwest without relying solely on management fees from a large committed fund.
Who makes investment decisions at gener8tor?
Co-founders Joe Kirgues and Troy Vosseller lead the firm's investment strategy. They built the accelerator model and oversee the central venture fund. Program-level selection may involve corporate partners, but final investment committee authority rests with the co-founders.
Does gener8tor invest outside of Wisconsin?
Yes. gener8tor has offices in Madison, Milwaukee, and Minneapolis, and runs accelerator and pre-accelerator programs in multiple states including Minnesota and Indiana. Its portfolio is nationally distributed, though deal sourcing concentrates on the Upper Midwest.
What is gener8tor's typical check size and equity ask?
For accelerator participants, gener8tor's standard terms are $100,000 in investment for approximately 6% equity. The firm also operates a venture fund that can make follow-on investments, though specific check sizes and terms for the fund are not publicly disclosed.
Which sectors does gener8tor target?
gener8tor's portfolio spans enterprise software, insurtech, digital health, and agricultural technology. Sector focus is partly shaped by corporate partners — for example, the American Family Insurance program generates insurtech deal flow. The firm's Midwest geography also steers it toward startups serving manufacturing, logistics, and food systems.
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