Nestled in the heart of southern Wisconsin, on the cusp of the Illinois border, lies Beloit, WI —a city pulsating with innovation and promise. With a population of 35,000, Beloit may be small, but its impact reverberates far beyond its borders. Over the past few decades, Beloit has undergone a renaissance, welcoming new businesses and embracing a culture of innovation. However, this spirit of innovation is not a recent phenomenon; it's deeply rooted in Beloit's history, dating back to its founding in 1836. Today, Beloit remains a testament to the power of collaboration and community-driven progress.
For the past two years, Beloit has proudly played host to Make48 events, embodying its commitment to fostering creativity and entrepreneurship. This partnership is a natural fit for a city that thrives on innovation, as Make48 participants and organizers alike have discovered firsthand.
During our time in Beloit, we had the privilege of sitting down with some of the city's visionary leaders to learn more about what sets Beloit apart. Their insights shed light on Beloit's rich history of innovation and the collaborative spirit that drives its success.
"Check it out - Beloit as an Innovative City"
Prudence Adams-Harker, whose family's invention—the Korn Kurl—laid the groundwork for future generations of innovators, emphasizes the importance of giving back to the community.
Fairbanks Morse Defense, one of Beloit's oldest companies, continues to push the boundaries of innovation as the largest supplier of engines for the US Navy
PlayMonster, founded by the Patch brothers, epitomizes Beloit's entrepreneurial spirit, evolving from a printing company to a leading producer of puzzles and games.
Kerry Group, a global food science company with its North American Headquarters located in Beloit, is a beacon of innovation in the food industry, boasting a state-of-the-art research facility.
North Star Radioisotopes, is the sole domestic supplier of the Telisium 99 radioisotopes they produce. These Radioisotopes are used in cutting-edge diagnostic and nuclear imaging for the medical field.
Kerry Frank, founder of Comply365, the inventor of the Electronic Flight Bag, and Executive Director of Beloit 200 epitomizes Beloit's ethos of community engagement and grassroots leadership.
In Beloit, collaboration is not just a buzzword—it's a way of life. Through initiatives like Beloit 200, industry leaders come together to shape the city's future, ensuring that innovation remains at the forefront of its development. As Kerry Frank aptly puts it, "Never underestimate your roots, never underestimate your small town, and if you want to make a difference, you can."
Beloit's journey is far from over. As it continues to evolve and innovate, it serves as an inspiration to communities worldwide. With a steadfast commitment to collaboration and a shared vision for the future, Beloit stands poised to write the next chapter in its storied history of innovation.