MSU Research Foundation Releases 2025 Impact Report

EAST LANSING, Mich. (Jan. 13, 2026)—The MSU Research Foundation has released its 2025 Impact Report, highlighting a year of significant investment at Michigan State University, expanded entrepreneurial support, and continued growth across Michigan’s innovation ecosystem.

During the fiscal year, the Foundation designated $75 million to support Michigan State University’s Uncommon Will, Far Better World comprehensive campaign and awarded $11.6 million in grants to advance research, technology commercialization, and entrepreneurship. Since 1973, the Foundation has provided more than $400 million in funding to MSU.
Additional highlights from the 2025 Impact Report include:

• Support for 134 MSU technologies through venture development, translational funding, and Entrepreneurs- and Mentors-in-Residence—strengthening pathways from research to market.
• Expansion of the Conquer Accelerator program, completing four cohorts, advancing 20 startups statewide, and launching new sector-based programs, including the Conquer EdTech Accelerator.
• 99 venture investments and launch of the Michigan Rise Evergreen Fund, providing sustainable, long-term startup capital across Michigan.
• Growth of the Foundation’s Research Parks network, supporting 58 tenant companies, 1,700 jobs, and maintaining a 90% occupancy rate across six facilities statewide.
• Convening cross-sector leaders through five statewide summit events, advancing collaboration across research, industry, and government.

The report also highlights statewide ecosystem partnerships with organizations including Henry Ford Health, Michigan Virtual, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), and regional economic development partners—demonstrating the Foundation’s role as a connector between research, capital, industry, and talent.

“The report reflects the scale and scope of our mission,” said David Washburn, Chief Executive Officer of the MSU Research Foundation. “By investing in research, supporting entrepreneurs, and strengthening partnerships across the state, we’re helping ideas move from discovery to real-world impact, while reinforcing Michigan State University’s role as a leader in innovation and economic development across the state.”

The 2025 Impact Report is available online at msufoundation.org.