The WISHfest was created as a partnership between the University of Connecticut (UConn) Waterbury Campus and the City of Waterbury to advance the educational goals of UConn Waterbury, enhance the K-12 college to workforce pipeline, and promote partnerships among the greater Waterbury communities. The WISHfest is centered around programs that promote innovation, sustainability, and health. The WISHfest welcomes UConn Waterbury, Waterbury Public Schools (WPS), greater Waterbury businesses, industries, and the community.