SHARE

September 8, 2025

Launching PitchMI 2025 with Pete Martin

In this episode, we talk with Pete Martin, Director of Portfolio Management at the MSU Research Foundation, about the launch of PitchMI, a statewide startup pitch competition awarding up to $1.25 million in investment.

Season 1 Episode 14:

In this episode, David Washburn interviews Pete Martin, Director of Portfolio Management at the MSU Research Foundation, about the launch of PitchMI—a new statewide startup pitch competition awarding up to $1.25 million in investment. Pete shares his journey back to Michigan after building a tech career across New York, Chicago, Florida, and Austin, and how reconnecting with the state’s entrepreneurial community reshaped his view of Michigan as a hub for innovation.

We explore Pete’s role in supporting portfolio companies, the momentum he’s seen across Michigan’s startup ecosystem, and how PitchMI will highlight regional strengths in healthcare, clean tech, mobility, software, and AI. Pete also discusses the importance of fostering collaboration across cities, showcasing Michigan’s competitive advantages, and creating opportunities for founders to access capital, talent, and support networks statewide.

Host: David Washburn
Guest: Pete Martin (Director of Portfolio Management, MSU Research Foundation)

Producers: Jenna McNamara and Doug Snitgen

Music: “Devil on Your Shoulder” by Will Harrison, licensed via Epidemic Sound

Stay connected with the MSU Research Foundation by following us on LinkedIn or subscribing to our email newsletters.

Latest Posts