Have you ever noticed a problem that just won’t leave your mind—something you feel compelled to fix? That’s the spark of entrepreneurship. For Tim Cullen, that spark came from seeing a field overrun with weeds. He transformed that neglected space into the Bushwood Golf Range. Best known as the President of the Rock Aqua Jays, Tim often says their world-class success stems from one thing: strong core values. That same spirit of problem-solving has long shaped Janesville. History is full of local leaders who built solutions from challenges. John P. Cullen built a bridge across the Rock River in 1886. Brothers Matthew and William Kennedy launched Rock Road Companies in 1913 to support railroad infrastructure. Thomas Baer began with playground equipment and eventually pivoted to found United Alloy, which now employs more than 500 people in Janesville. Entrepreneurship often begins by simply saying: “I’ll try.” That’s what Jose Massas-Caraballo did when he saw a gap in medical transportation. His vision started in Janesville and now spans the state. Another Forward Janesville Entrepreneur of the Year, Kelsey Paasch, is helping others take that same leap—guiding visionaries to clarify their goals and focus on the steps that matter most. Business coach Dennis Riley of Contour Consulting, one of our great Forward Janesville Ambassadors, is also available locally to help small businesses and nonprofits navigate the challenges of getting started. For those wondering if their idea could become a sustainable business, Janesville offers the support you need. The Janesville Innovation Center helps entrepreneurs move from garage operations to professional spaces, surrounded by a network of like-minded creators. It’s where Dave Farrell, founder of N1 Critical Technologies, took his idea from concept to company— despite having no prior experience in the industry. At Forward Janesville, we create connections across the business community—between seasoned leaders and those just getting started. This ecosystem of support helps people turn ideas into action and fosters a culture where local, family-owned businesses continue to grow and thrive. These companies are the backbone of our community, and it's our responsibility to support and preserve them. So the next time you notice a problem, ask yourself: What could I do to solve it? Then, take the first step. Chiropractor Andy Paull offers this simple advice: “Find someone who’s doing what you want to do—and start a conversation.” You’ll quickly find that many successful entrepreneurs didn’t start with all the answers— they just started. Forward Janesville is here to help you do the same. Learn more about how, and read about many of these aforementioned success stories, in this edition of the FJI Report. Let’s turn your problem into a plan—together. Shar Hermanson President & CEO Forward Janesville From Problem to Plan: How Janesville Empowers Entrepreneurs to Turn Ideas into Impact 4 | FORWARD JANESVILLE
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