(July-Sept. 2025) Four new startups joined the Foundation’s incubator ecosystem this quarter, expanding innovation in digital security, healthcare, sustainability, and creative media.
Four PitchMI regional events in Grand Rapids, Traverse City, Detroit, and Ann Arbor showcased Michigan’s most promising innovators, drawing hundreds of attendees and $725,000 in additional co-investments. Winners advance to the $1 million statewide championship in April 2026.
Regional pitch events drew hundreds of attendees and $725,000 in additional co-investments, underscoring momentum in Michigan’s startup ecosystem.
Accelerator programs provide $20,000 investment, mentorship, and 10-week programming for Michigan startups in Grand Rapids and a new national EdTech accelerator powered by Michigan Virtual.
Four regional pitch events will showcase Michigan’s most promising innovators, with winners advancing to the statewide championship in April 2026.
Introducing the 20 startup teams selected to compete in the PitchMI regional events, where founders present their ideas, connect with investors, and compete for a place in the statewide championship awarding an additional $1 million.
Licensing royalties from the life-saving cisplatin treatment have generated more than $400 million for research, startup investment, and innovation programs led by the MSU Research Foundation.
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.
The MSU Research Foundation supports Grand Rapids startups through venture funding, startup services, and community connections—helping entrepreneurs turn ideas into scalable companies in Michigan.
The Bridge is a startup incubator within the Doug Meijer Medical Innovation Building, offering collaborative space, structured support, and connections to capital, customers, and peers—anchored in the heart of Grand Rapids’ Medical Mile.
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