Always Forward.

Building the Midwest forward.

We’re a holding company that owns and backs companies creating jobs, opportunity, and professional pathways across the region we call home.

Why we exist

Talent is everywhere. Opportunity should be too.

The Midwest produces world-class talent, research, and work ethic — yet too much of the capital and high-growth opportunity has drifted to the coasts. Midwest Forward Ventures exists to keep more of that value here: owning and operating companies in the region, hiring here, and reinvesting in the people and places that make the Midwest what it is.

We build for the long term. Every company in our portfolio stands on its own — and together they compound into something bigger than any one of them.

Our mission

To foster economic and regional growth in the Midwest by building companies that create jobs, expand access to opportunity, and open professional pathways.

3
Ventures in the portfolio
1
Region we’re all in on: the Midwest
Long-term ownership horizon

The portfolio

Companies we own and build

A growing group of ventures across technology, AI-driven growth, and digital media — each rooted in the region.

Operating

Environmental Compliance Technical

Environmental compliance services and technical consulting — helping organizations meet environmental regulations and operate responsibly.

ectechnical.com
Scaling

GrowthPlug.ai

AI-driven growth and go-to-market software — our engine for demand generation, data, and scalable revenue.

growthplug.ai
Relaunching 2026

The College Ledger

A college sports media brand — home to The College Ledger podcast and the Chasing Crowns blog, building audience and community across the region.

Podcast relaunching Fall 2026

How we work

Operators, not just allocators

We own for the long term

We build companies meant to last decades, compounding value patiently instead of chasing quick exits.

We share strength across the portfolio

Talent, technology, brand, and distribution flow between our companies — so the whole is worth more than the sum.

We widen the door

Internships, apprenticeships, and hiring create real pathways for Midwest talent — opportunity is part of the model, not an afterthought.

Let’s build something rooted here.

Founder, operator, partner, or future teammate — if you care about the Midwest, we’d love to talk.

Get in touch