Whether your company is currently raising or planning to raise investment capital in the future, Pressure Chamber is a valuable platform to tell your story and make new connections across the country.

Applicants go through a screening process that may include presentations with prominent Wisconsin investors. From there, a select number of companies will be chosen to pitch to a panel of out-of-state investors, business executives and a live audience on August 18 during Forward Fest. In addition to receiving the coveted golden suitcase, the winning company will also get a reserved spot in the Chamber's exclusive Greater Madison startup meetings with top Silicon Valley investment firms this October.

Pressure Chamber is presented by the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce and Michael Best, with support from the State of Wisconsin Investment Board, Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation and UW–Madison Office of Business Engagement, Wisconsin Economic Development Corp., Fetch, Associated Bank, The Gialamas Company, JP Cullen, Mastercraft Ventures, HealthX Ventures, Idea Fund, Wisconsin Investment Partners, Rock River Capital Partners and FPC Live.

Pressure Chamber is open to any industry, as long as the company meets the following requirements:

- Be a member of the Greater Madison Chamber of Commerce (startup memberships available) or support another regional entrepreneurial partner organization
- Be located in the Madison region or plan to relocate by Aug. 18, 2026
- Have raised at least $25,000, excluding personal investment by company founders
- Application must be received by Wednesday, July 8, 2026

For questions: