UW Tech Exploration Lab

A Launchpad for Applied AI and Venture Discovery
The UW Tech Exploration Lab is where emerging technologies meet real-world problems. A collaboration between the Wisconsin Institute for Discovery, Wisconsin School of Business, and other entities, the Lab brings together students, alumni, and industry to explore bold ideas through applied AI, hands-on experimentation, and venture-ready innovation.

From AI to XR and beyond, multidisciplinary teams prototype, validate, and reimagine what’s possible—turning complex challenges into entrepreneurial opportunities and future-ready talent.

For Students

Whether you just want to learn or are developing your own entrepreneurial idea or want to collaborate on real-world challenges, the Lab provides mentorship, tools, and opportunities to explore emerging technologies such as AI, XR, robotics, Blockchain, IoT and more.

• Advance your own ideas with support and guidance
• Work with multidisciplinary teams on industry-driven projects
• Explore new technologies and gain hands-on experience
• Build valuable connections with mentors and professionals

“Working on DermaVision through the Tech Exploration Lab has been one of my most meaningful experiences at UW–Madison. The Lab connected me with peers passionate about AI and healthcare, provided access to advanced tools and mentorship, and helped me turn an early idea into real progress. It’s more than a lab—it’s a launchpad.”

For Industry

Stay ahead of the curve by engaging with student innovators and testing new ideas in a low-risk, exploratory environment.

• Share real challenges to shape student-led exploration
• Discover relevant use cases for emerging technologies and new ideas
• Gain insights and perspectives to inform strategic direction
• Potentially build and pilot tech solutions and innovation

“The lab is unique in that it connects students from across campus with advanced tools and industry mentorship to rapidly prototype and gain essential skills for an increasingly AI-driven world. It’s exciting to watch entrepreneurial ideas develop, and there is significant value in bringing the best of Google’s AI to support students’ exploration.”

For Alumni

Stay connected to campus innovation and give back through mentorship, collaboration, and support.

• Mentor student teams and share industry insights
• Host innovation challenges or workshops
• Attend lab showcases and networking events
• Support the lab’s mission through partnerships or sponsorship

“I came to the UW Tech Exploration Lab to mentor, but left with momentum. The Lab gave me the space—and the spark—to test a wellness idea I’d been quietly incubating. Working with sharp, driven students helped turn that early vision into a viable concept. It was a powerful reminder that innovation thrives on curiosity, collaboration, and a little Badger grit.”