Fireside Chat: Brewing Success

with Sharad Chadha, CEO of Sprecher

November 18, 4:15-5:15 PM

UWM Lubar Entrepreneurship Center

RSVP required

Join us for an exciting conversation with Sharad Chadha, CEO of Milwaukee-based Sprecher Brewing Co. and UWM MBA alum.

Since taking the helm in 2020, Sharad has transformed Sprecher, tripling sales, expanding distribution nationally, and diversifying its craft beverage portfolio.

Sharad’s journey—from global executive roles at Samsung, GE HealthCare, and Electrolux to revitalizing a beloved local brand—is rooted in a legacy of soda bottling dating back to his great-grandfather.

Don’t miss this opportunity to hear firsthand how Sharad blends passion, innovation, and leadership to drive growth in a competitive industry.

Plus, enjoy free root beer on us! 

Presented in partnership with the Lubar College of Business and UWM student groups Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization (CEO) and Minority Women in Entrepreneurship (MWE).

Startup Spotlight:

Built-N-Bioassays

Decoding Chemical Contaminants Using Algae & AI

Founded by UW-Milwaukee professor Rebecca Klaper and postdoctoral fellow Eric Ostovich, Built-N-Bioassays is a biotech startup transforming how we detect and understand chemical contamination in agriculture and water systems.

What began as a research breakthrough quickly evolved into a promising venture. With strategic support from the UWM Research Foundation, the duo secured a patent and pursued commercialization.

Click below to read on for a Q&A with the founders to learn how they turned lab innovation into a startup—and how you can support their next steps.

Mentor Spotlight: Jude Anders

Developing Products & People

The UWM Research Foundation’s ENGAGE Mentor Program connects experienced professionals with emerging innovators to accelerate ideas, build confidence, and foster entrepreneurial success. Through monthly meetings and speed mentoring sessions, ENGAGE offers bite-sized, accessible guidance that can make a lasting impact.

In this Q&A, we highlight Jude Anders, a longtime ENGAGE mentor whose career spans engineering, product innovation, and sustainable building practices. Jude brings decades of experience—from leading technical teams at Johnson Controls to mentoring early-stage startups at UWM. His thoughtful approach to mentorship reflects a deep commitment to developing both products and people.

Click on the button below to learn about Jude’s professional journey, leadership philosophy, and the moments that continue to inspire his work with the next generation of entrepreneurs.

If you would like to explore becoming an ENGAGE mentor, please send an email to Jane Lorenzi.