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Learn who’s growing, changing, moving and more! Stay on top of what’s new with your neighboring businesses. We share news releases and announcements from your peers in the Madison area. Want to toot your own horn? Use our Submit Member News form to share your own stories.

Photo by Richard Hurd

From 1994 to 2024: SupraNet’s 30-Year Mission to Help Everyone Do More on the Internet

Madison, WI (September 24, 2024) – SupraNet Communications, Inc., a Madison-born and based Internet service provider (ISP), celebrates their 30th anniversary this year, marking a significant milestone in its journey of connecting the city to the ever-evolving world of the Internet. 

Founded in 1994, SupraNet witnessed firsthand the transformational power of the Internet, growing alongside its users as the online landscape exploded from its infancy to the ubiquitous presence it is today.

A Look Back at 30 Years of Internet History

Established the same year as the release of the first web browser, Mosaic, SupraNet connected Madison businesses to the Internet with dial-up connections and witnessed the start of early websites like Yahoo! and Amazon. Dial up Internet cost $30/month back in 1994. See more Internet history and nostalgia here on our interactive “vintage” Internet timeline.

Celebrating 30 Years and Looking Ahead

Fast forward to the present, SupraNet now offers fiber-optic Internet plans to multifamily developments and businesses with speeds exceeding one gigabit per second, a far cry from the early days. The cost of Internet access has also decreased dramatically, with SupraNet offering competitive plans that make broadband available to a wider audience. An ongoing project includes the high-profile Bayview development, now in Phase 3.

“The support provided to our residents by SupraNet has been exceptional. Many of our residents are experiencing Wi-Fi for the first time, allowing them to connect with the world and communicate in ways they couldn’t before,” said Xong Vang, Bayview Housing Coordinator. 

As SupraNet celebrates three decades in business, the company remains committed to providing not just fast and reliable Internet, but also offering affordable options that enable individuals and communities to thrive in the digital age. SupraNet actively participates in programs that bridge the digital divide and advocates for policies that promote universal access to the Internet.

Affordable Internet Access: A Gateway to Opportunity

In today’s digital world, access to the Internet is no longer a luxury, it’s a necessity. From searching and applying for jobs to completing online coursework and participating in virtual classrooms, an affordable Internet connection unlocks a multitude of opportunities for individuals and communities. 

Research from pewtrust.org indicates that Internet access significantly enhances student performance and health outcomes, while also providing essential educational opportunities and promoting healthy aging. The opportunity for broadband connections that SupraNet provides to low-income developments is crucial. It equals the playing field by connecting residents to job opportunities. Connection to broadband has proven to increase employment rates in affordable housing properties.

“SupraNet was born out of a passion for technology and a belief in the democratizing potential of the Internet,” says Bryan Chan, Founder and CEO of SupraNet Communications. “Over the past three decades, we’ve seen the Internet evolve from a niche tool for academics and tech enthusiasts to an essential part of everyday life for individuals, businesses, and communities alike.”

About SupraNet Communications

SupraNet Communications is a locally owned and operated Internet service provider headquartered in Madison, Wisconsin. Since 1994, Supranet has been providing businesses and residents with reliable and affordable Internet access, starting with dial-up services, transitioning to wireless Internet and now operates its own local fiber-optic network. Supranet is committed to delivering exceptional customer service and supporting the local community.

Photo by Richard Hurd

M3 Partners with Vouch to Enhance Insurance for Tech Companies

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

For Media Inquiries:
Angela Joyce, Director of Communications
M3 Insurance
Phone: 608.229.6409
Email: angela.joyce@m3ins.com

M3 Partners with Vouch to Enhance Insurance for Tech Companies

(Madison, WI) – M3 Insurance, a leading provider of risk management and insurance solutions, and Vouch, the premier digital insurance provider for innovative fast-growing companies, today announce a strategic partnership. This partnership will enable M3 to deliver enhanced insurance services to startups. 

In the fast-paced and ever-evolving tech industry, startups face unique challenges requiring specialized insurance products and risk management services. Recognizing this need, M3 and Vouch have joined forces to provide custom solutions and exceptional service at every stage of growth.

With Vouch’s innovative digital platform and exclusive proprietary coverages, M3 will now extend its reach to serve a broader range of clients, providing the speed, simplicity, and expertise that technology and life sciences companies demand.

By leveraging Vouch’s deep understanding of the tech ecosystem and our extensive experience in risk management, we are creating an environment where startups can focus on innovation and growth, knowing they have robust protection in place,” said Matt Cranney,Executive Vice President of M3 Elevate and Partner at M3.

This partnership brings Vouch’s 10 exclusive, tech-specific coverages to M3’s clients, offering a seamless, self-serve insurance experience tailored to the needs of innovative entrepreneurs.

“Vouch knows that great companies are built everywhere. We’ve seen firsthand the growth of tech ecosystems in the places where M3 is already providing exceptional local advice and connection to clients, and that’s why we’re partnering with M3 in key regions,” said John Wallace, Chief Insurance Officer at Vouch. “This partnership with M3 provides entrepreneurs in these regions with the fast, self-serve insurance solutions they need to scale confidently without having to forgo that local advice and connection.”

As the tech landscape expands beyond traditional hubs, the demand for specialized insurance solutions has never been greater. This partnership positions M3 and Vouch at the forefront of this trend, delivering cutting-edge risk management services to support the growth of startups.

The recent designation of Wisconsin as a regional tech hub by the U.S. Economic Development Administration, with $49 million in federal funding, underscores the state’s growing role in the industry.

“As Wisconsin emerges as a leading tech center, we at M3 are committed to fostering innovation and supporting the growth of emerging businesses,” continued Cranney. “Our partnership with Vouch places us at the heart of this development, providing essential insurance solutions to tech startups.”

For more information about the partnership and the insurance solutions available, please visit vouch.us/partners/m3.

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About M3

M3 is a top insurance broker and risk management firm in America. We’re leaders in the products we represent and the industries we serve. M3’s people are an extension of your team, providing world-class resources to help you manage risk, purchase insurance, and provide employee benefits. And our focus on community builds better places to live and work. For more information on M3, visit www.m3ins.com

About Vouch

Vouch is a US-based provider of business insurance to thousands of high-growth companies that has raised $160 million from top-tier Silicon Valley institutions and investors, including Ribbit Capital, Redpoint Ventures, Y Combinator and Index Ventures. Since its inception in 2018, the company has empowered clients to get risk management right through niche expertise, a proprietary approach to pricing and underwriting, fast, digital-first procurement and coverages that scale as the company grows.

Photo by Richard Hurd

Reimagined and Refreshed: St. Vinny’s Grand Reopening, October 1st

MADISON — St. Vinny’s Willy St Thrift Store will celebrate its Grand Reopening on Tuesday, October 1st from 8:30 to 9:45 AM at 1309 Williamson Street, Madison. The morning will include brief remarks and an open house showcasing the remodeled retail space and program additions.

“We are overjoyed to reopen St. Vinny’s Willy Street in full,” Julie Bennett, CEO & Executive Director of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul — Madison, said, “The remodeled space enhances the shopping experience, while the new second-floor will house our St. Elizabeth Ann Seton and Microlending Programs. Our immense gratitude to Advanced Building Corporation for the construction and Dimension IV Madison Design Group for the architecture and interior design.”

St. Vinny’s Willy St will now carry furniture and refurbished mattresses. Thanks to grants from RENEW Wisconsin’s Solar for Good initiative and the City of Madison’s MadiSUN Solar Energy Program, eco-friendly solar panels contribute to the store’s ongoing sustainability efforts. A one-of-a-kind mural depicting the organization’s past, present, and future welcomes neighbors into the second-floor program space.

Attend the Grand Reopening on October 1st to celebrate local thrift, helping our neighbors in need, and the rebirth of this beloved Willy Street landmark.

Learn more about St. Vinny’s Thrift Stores at https://svdpmadison.org/shop/.

Photo by Richard Hurd

Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm Welcomes New Attorney Jonathan Esp

Madison, Wisconsin – September 23, 2024 – Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm is eager to announce the addition of Jonathan Esp as the newest member of our team. Jonathan will be joining our Madison office and will represent clients statewide in personal injury cases.

Having received his JD from Marquette University and represented clients on the state and federal level, Jonathan’s local background and commitment to justice make him a valuable addition to our Wisconsin firm. He brings with him over a decade of committed advocacy, having practiced law across various industries pursuing justice for clients.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jonathan to Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm,” said William Pemberton, CEO, and founder. “His experience and commitment to justice will strengthen our already client-focused team.”

Esp’s background includes complex litigation in insurance, real estate, and employment law industries. “I’m honored to join Pemberton, a firm that shares my passion for justice and excellence,” said Esp. “I look forward to collaborating with my colleagues to guide clients through their most challenging times.”

For more information about Attorney Esp or to schedule a consultation, please contact our office at 608.448.6242 or visit our website at pembertonpi.com.

About Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm

Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm is dedicated to advocating for the rights of individuals who have been injured due to the negligence of others. With a commitment to excellence and people-focused service, we strive to achieve the best possible outcomes for our clients.

Contact:

Moses Ehlers
Marketing Director
Pemberton Personal Injury Law Firm
608.448.6242
moses@pembertonpi.com
Pembertonpi.com

Photo by Richard Hurd

Wisconsin Union: Wisconsin Homecoming Committee, Wisconsin Alumni Association, Partners Host 2024 UW Homecoming

Returning for its 114th year, University of Wisconsin–Madison Homecoming will take place Oct. 20-26 with a week of fun for students, alumni, UW community members and honorary Badgers alike. Attendees can look forward to time-honored traditions, such as the Wisconsin Homecoming Committee and Wisconsin Union’s downtown Madison parade, as well as the Wisconsin Alumni Association’s (WAA’s) post-parade block party and pep rally. 

“Every year, our talented committee has the privilege of designing and organizing events that engage both the campus community and the greater Madison area, celebrating our shared Badger identity,” said Wynton Wright, president of the Wisconsin Homecoming Committee. “I’m excited about the diverse events we have planned this year and eager to continue the Homecoming tradition.”

Both UW–Madison registered student organizations and non-university groups are invited to apply to walk, dance, bike, or build a float for the UW Homecoming Parade, which will proceed from Gilman Street to Lake Street on Oct. 25 starting at 6 p.m.

“We are thrilled to welcome our alumni and friends back to campus for the UW’s Homecoming celebrations,” said Sarah Schutt, WAA chief alumni officer and executive director. “The Wisconsin Alumni Association is proud to offer a variety of activities for alumni, students and the Madison community in partnership with the Wisconsin Homecoming Committee.”

Highlights of the weeklong celebration will include:

Now through Oct. 11

Oct. 19

  • Badger Games: bracket-style student intramural volleyball tournament, presented by the Wisconsin Homecoming Committee

Oct. 20

  • Paint the Town: opportunity for registered student organizations to decorate Memorial Union and State Street windows, presented by the Wisconsin Homecoming Committee

Oct. 21-25

  • Medallion Hunt: daily treasure hunt with prizes, presented by the Wisconsin Homecoming Committee

Oct. 21-26

  • Window Display Showcase, featuring windows painted by UW–Madison registered student organizations, presented by the Wisconsin Homecoming Committee

Oct. 21

  • Cocoa with HoCo: free hot chocolate inside Memorial Union and Union South, presented by the Wisconsin Homecoming Committee

Oct. 22-24

Oct. 24-25

  • Fill the Hill, presented by the Wisconsin Foundation and Alumni Association

Oct. 25

Oct. 26

Attendees can find the full up-to-date list of Homecoming fun and activities at wiscohoco.com and uwalumni.com/homecoming.