Four Startups Named Regional Winners in PitchMI, Advancing Toward Additional $1M Statewide Prize
Regional pitch events drew hundreds of attendees and $725,000 in additional co-investments, underscoring momentum in Michigan’s startup ecosystem.
MSU Research Foundation Launches Two Conquer Accelerator Cohorts in Grand Rapids and Lansing
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.
Top 20 Startups Chosen to Compete for $1.25M PitchMI Prize
Four regional pitch events will showcase Michigan’s most promising innovators, with winners advancing to the statewide championship in April 2026.
PitchMI 2025: Meet the Top 20 Startup Teams
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.
MSU’s Cisplatin Discovery Continues to Save Lives and Fuel Innovation
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.
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.
Grand Rapids: Building a Connected Startup Ecosystem
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: Supporting Startup Growth in Grand Rapids
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.
Michigan Rise: Supporting Early-Stage Startups
Launched by the MSU Research Foundation and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Michigan Rise is an early-stage investment fund providing capital, mentorship, and connections to help founders scale and strengthen Michigan’s innovation economy.
MSU Research Foundation to Lead $4M Statewide Expansion of PitchMI Startup Competition
With two $1.25M grand prizes and tailored regional spotlights, PitchMI will deliver among the largest startup investments in the U.S., exclusively for Michigan-based founders.
