Core Values

Service
We listen. We anticipate the needs of others. We provide personal attention and extraordinary service. We strive for deep and long-standing relationships. We do what it takes to exceed expectations.

Integrity
We are honest and trustworthy. We conduct ourselves with the highest of standards and we do the right thing, even when no one is looking. We are committed to protecting the confidentiality of our clients and employees alike.

Accountability
We pay attention. We do whatever it takes, and we own our words and actions.

Gratitude
We are thankful for all that we have. We act with grace. We exercise compassion and show empathy to others. We give without expecting anything in return. We are accepting of others at all times.

Respect
We consider others first and treat people as we would like to be treated. We are accepting of others and embrace their unique gifts.

Optimism
We have curiosity, energy, and passion for what we do and how we do it. We believe in the power of a positive attitude. We are encouraging. We look for and celebrate what is right. We spread good vibes.

Teamwork
We are humble and open-minded. We lift people up and empower others. We give everyone the benefit of the doubt. We collaborate and work together to achieve outstanding results.

Thrive
We foster a culture of growth and continuous learning. We are proactive and see the big picture. We have a personal commitment to drive change. We support each other in personal and professional development.

Education
We guide others with knowledge and education so they can feel convicted and confident with decisions. We meet them where they are and get them where they want to be in a non-judgmental way.

Philanthropy
We make our community a better place. We promote the welfare of others without expecting anything in return. We give in a variety of ways including money, time, and talent.

Our History
Influential new-age author, Marilyn Ferguson, once said, “Life sends us many opportunities, brilliantly disguised as problems.” Our founder, Karen J. Ellenbecker, couldn’t agree more.
Like many companies, EIG began with an entrepreneurial vision to launch a company that would enhance the lives of clients, employees, and the community.
Karen J. Ellenbecker started Ellenbecker Investment Group (EIG) in 1996 after spending several years as a traditional stockbroker with two major Investment firms, as well as serving as a Trust Officer for a major Milwaukee bank.
Through these experiences, Karen realized that taking the best business practices from both would provide clients with exceptional planning and extraordinary service. As a broker, she saw firsthand how they were forced to look for new business rather than service their current clients. And her experience at the bank reinforced her belief that everyone can – and should – receive individual attention and an individual plan
Karen’s vision for the future was to convert from selling products that generate commissions, to a fee-based business model that compensates advisors for providing services and investment advice to their clients each and every day. Many people thought that this model would fail, including Karen’s former boss, who skeptically said he was “Keeping her desk open for her.”
Yet, over the years, EIG continued to stretch and grow, finding new ways to expand services through investment research, technology, and good old-fashioned listening to the needs of our clients.
Karen had a goal of changing the perception of the financial industry. Most major investment firms have begun to transition their book of business to a fee-based business model. Over time, investment firms realized that clients want more than just a broker selling them a product; they want ongoing advice and a deeper relationship. In 2005, 2010, 2016, and 2023, EIG was the recipient of the Better Business Torch Award for Ethics and Integrity.

Julie Ellenbecker-Lipsky, who has held a pioneering role with Ellenbecker Investment Group since it was founded, is now leading as President and Senior Wealth Advisor. Julie was named president in 2014 after working with Karen for over 20 years. As President, she has continued to grow and improve the business in her own way. She has created a strong infrastructure with an active leadership team, alongside successful operations, and marketing functions that both support the company and will allow continued growth going forward. Immediately upon being name the president of EIG, Julie made huge strides to innovate and pioneer a new way of doing business. She took EIG in a new direction including transitioning to a Registered Investment Adviser, developing an executive leadership team, opening a Tax Planning division and creating core values to move the firm forward. Today the firm hires and transitions out all employees based on their shared and agreed upon core values.
EIG has grown from three employees to forty and continues to grow. We foster a culture where family and personal goals are just as important as professional development. All employees are treated and compensated as owners; work hours are flexible; training and growth opportunities are provided, and everyone has a respected voice. We are proud of the amazing employee retention rates and recognize that EIGs success is dependent on continuing to foster a culture of gratitude and growth.