Impact

Impact

Our work accelerates research, entrepreneurship, and economic development throughout Michigan and beyond. These metrics reflect the scope and impact of our programs, from MSU grantmaking and startup support to venture funding and innovation infrastructure.

University Resources

Our long-standing investments in Michigan State University research have fueled discoveries across disciplines and strengthened the university’s global reputation. Through competitive grants, endowed professorships, and strategic partnerships, we’ve created a foundation for innovation that continues to attract talent and drive impact.

$400M

Cumulative Grant Funding Since 1974

$15M

Annual Research Grant Funding

73

Strategic Partnership Grant Projects Supported

63

MSU Research Foundation Professorships

Startup Services

Our startup support has helped hundreds of high-tech founders turn ideas into companies. By providing guidance on IP strategy, access to non-dilutive funding, and expert mentorship, we’ve built a pipeline of scalable ventures—and a thriving startup community anchored by MSU innovation.

176

Invention Disclosures Submitted*

71

New Patent Applications Filed*

49

U.S. Patents Issued*

5

Startups Formed Around MSU IP

8

SBIR/STTR Proposals Supported

10

Mentors-In-Residence Engaged

3

Venture Fellows Postdocs Trained

21

SmartZone Partnerships Statewide

*MSU Technologies FY2024 Report

Venture Funds

By deploying early-stage capital alongside public and private co-investors, we’ve backed over 200 high-growth companies and helped attract more than $1 billion in additional investment. Our venture portfolio spans diverse sectors and founders, generating jobs, exits, and long-term economic impact across Michigan.

$42M

Venture Capital Deployed

$1B

Co-Investment Capital Leveraged

$214M

Non-Dilutive Funding Raised

210

Active  Portfolio Companies

606

Active Co-Investor Relationships

42%

Companies with Diverse Founders

24

Successful Startup Exits

1,823

Jobs Created

Research Parks

Our research parks play a critical role in translating innovation into economic activity. By supporting a mix of startups, research teams, and corporate partners, they help generate jobs, attract investment, and strengthen Michigan’s position in key technology sectors.

3

Major Markets Served

5

Research Park Facilities Operated

165,000

Square Feet of Lab, Office, and Warehouse Space

90%

Average Occupancy Rate

38

Physical Tenant Companies

17

Virtual Tenant Companies

Accelerator Programs

Our Conquer Accelerator programs produce startups that last. With strong survival rates, follow-on funding, and successful exits, alumni companies continue to grow, hire, and raise capital long after final pitch day. These outcomes reflect the strength of Michigan’s entrepreneurial pipeline and the lasting value of early-stage support.

78%

Company Survival Rate

$45 : $1

Capital Raised per Dollar Invested

27%

Received Follow-On Funding

$5M+

Revenue Generated by Portfolio

16%

Companies Achieving Successful Exit

55%

Companies Led by Underserved Founders

75+

Jobs Created by Alumni Startups

CADE Internship Program

CADE connects students with early-stage companies to build experience, confidence, and capability in real startup environments. Alumni go on to lead projects, join founding teams, and apply entrepreneurial thinking to whatever path they pursue.

55+

CADE Internship Alumni

80%

Had No Prior Startup Experience

66%

Held Leadership Roles During Internship

33%

Continued in Startups or Entrepreneurship

100%

Increased Interest in Entrepreneurship

100%

Would Recommend the Program