Conquer Finance & Insurance Accelerator

This 10-week hybrid accelerator program is tailored for startups in fintech, insurance tech, and related fields. The program provides a unique blend of in-person and virtual experiences, expert mentorship, and hands-on support to refine products, scale businesses, and accelerate growth.

✔ Tailored Curriculum

✔ Personalized Coaching

✔ Access to Capital

Meet the 2024 Conquer Finance & Insurance Accelerator Teams.

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What to Expect:

In-Person Kickoff Week

The program begins with a focused, in-person week at the MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) in East Lansing, where participants connect with mentors, partners, and fellow startups—establishing a strong foundation for the weeks ahead.
Virtual Weeks

Following kickoff, the program transitions to a virtual format, with Monday morning meetings dedicated to setting the agenda for the week and sharing updates. This approach offers flexibility while keeping everyone aligned.
Educational Sessions

Weekly sessions provide tailored content designed around knowledge and skills specific to the financial and insurance sectors, addressing key challenges and opportunities.
Homework and Implementation

Each week includes hands-on assignments, ensuring direct application of new knowledge to drive real progress.
Founders Hour

Accomplished founders from across the country share their startup stories, lessons, and insights—an inspiring look into the the realities of building a business.
In-Person Final Event

The program concludes with a one-day event in downtown East Lansing, bringing everyone together to celebrate and reflect on the journey.

Apply Now!

Conquer Finance & Insurance Accelerator Program Benefits:

Tailored Curriculum

The program’s curriculum addresses finance and insurance sector challenges and opportunities, offering insights into trends, regulations, market dynamics, and customer behavior to support business scaling.
Expert Mentorship and One-on-One Meetings

Participants work with industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and MSU alumni who provide guidance and practical advice. One-on-one meetings offer insights and potential partnerships with decision-makers.
Access to Capital and Investment Opportunities

Teams receive $50,000 in funding, including $20,000 in equity at the start and a $30,000 grant at program completion. Additional funding and pitching opportunities are also available.
Learning Modules

Weekly modules cover essential topics for startup growth, encouraging creative solutions and new market opportunities.
Validation and Testing

Participants validate their products with real customers through partnerships, allowing for effective testing and refinement.
Collaborative Network

The program fosters collaboration, networking, and learning among entrepreneurs, with access to the MSU alumni network for partnerships and mentorship.
Free Co-Working Space

Participants can use co-working space at the MSU Research Foundation or MSUFCU, promoting collaboration and creativity in a supportive setting.
Legal and Regulatory Support

The program provides support to help startups meet industry standards and remain compliant with legal requirements, easing regulatory challenges.

What Founders are Saying:

"This has been a great opportunity to get behind-the-scenes insights on how to build for this market."

Aleksandra Medina, Co-Founder/CPO
Fritch
"The coursework and networking have been valuable resources as we help our partners integrate our technology into their processes."

Arjun Sahgal, Co-Founder/CEO
Ascent Platform

Frequently Asked Questions:

Startups in the financial or insurance sectors with capital-efficient businesses, functional prototypes, scalable distribution models, and under $1M in external funding are eligible. Teams should have three or more cross-functional members.
The program runs for 10 weeks, combining in-person and virtual sessions. It begins with an in-person kickoff week at MSU Federal Credit Union, followed by virtual sessions, and concludes with a final in-person week during East Lansing Tech Week.
Startups receive expert mentorship, one-on-one meetings with industry leaders, tailored educational sessions, and guidance on applying learnings through practical assignments.
Each selected team receives a total investment of $50,000: a $20,000 equity investment at the start of the program and a $30,000 grant upon completion.
Yes, the program provides connections with mentors, industry experts, successful founders, and other startups. It includes a weekly "Founder Hour," where experienced entrepreneurs share insights and strategies.
There are no participation fees. However, the program includes a $20,000 equity investment at the beginning, which involves an exchange of equity in the startup.
Startups have access to free co-working space at either the MSU Research Foundation or the MSU Federal Credit Union in downtown East Lansing.
The program is intensive, with a weekly schedule of group sessions, one-on-one meetings, and assignments. Teams are expected to fully engage to maximize growth.
Applications are submitted through the program website. Selection is based on product-market fit, scalability, team strength, and traction. Selected teams are notified before the program start date.
Yes, beyond the initial investment, startups are introduced to additional funding opportunities, including grants and investments from industry partners and the MSU alumni network.
After completing the program, startups have ongoing access to the MSU alumni network, potential partnerships, and continued support to help drive growth.