Five Grand Rapids Startup Teams Named to Fall 2024 Conquer Accelerator Cohort
MSU Research Foundation program offers funding, mentorship, and networking to Michigan-based entrepreneurs, plus hands-on experience for entrepreneurship-focused interns.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Michigan State University Research Foundation launched its Fall 2024 Conquer Grand Rapids Accelerator cohort with an orientation held on September 9 at The Bridge incubator in the Doug Meijer Medical Innovation Building. Five promising startup teams were selected for their high-tech solutions and rapid growth potential. Each team was also paired with an intern from the Conquer Accelerator Diversity in Entrepreneurship (CADE) program. The fall semester program runs through November.
The selected startups includes:
Bit-Farms creates subscription-based micro-farms for schools, restaurants, and organizations to grow fresh, sustainable produce on-site, reducing waste and transportation costs. Joining Bit-Farms is intern Michelle Charles-Anaele, a Calvin University student majoring in Marketing Management and Information Systems.
BluLateral creates wireless devices that deliver Bilateral Stimulation (BLS) via Bluetooth, using an app to reduce stress, anxiety, and distressing memories in therapy settings for emotional regulation and reducing PTSD symptoms. Joining BluLateral is intern Aislinn Spaman, a Grand Valley State University student majoring in Human Resource Management and Marketing.
MoveFactorX creates portable movement sensors that track and provide real-time feedback on exercise performance, helping users improve strength, power, and movement quality in sports and rehabilitation. Joining MoveFactorX is intern Arthur Puppim, a Cornerstone University student majoring in Business Management and Finance..
Thermal is creating a fashion tech platform that uses an advanced database to curate personalized digital showrooms, allowing users to find outfits by searching with text prompts or images. Joining Thermal is intern Aisha Abdullahi, a Calvin University student majoring in Computer Science and Business..
Virtual Patient Education Design (VPEd) connects universities, healthcare students, and patients through specialized curriculum and hands-on clinical experiences to enhance healthcare education. Joining VPEd is intern Adalyn Klawitter, a Grand Valley State University student majoring in Finance and Human Resource Management..
“We’re excited to work with this new group of innovators," said Janet Wyllie, Senior Program Manager at the MSU Research Foundation. "Their diverse solutions, from sustainable micro-farms to wireless therapy devices and advanced movement sensors, create a dynamic cohort full of creative potential. We look forward to supporting their collaboration and growth.”
Each startup will receive comprehensive support, including mentorship, workspace, expert presentations, and a $20,000 initial investment from Red Cedar Ventures, a venture investment subsidiary of the MSU Research Foundation. They’ll work with over 40 experienced mentors, focusing on business development, product growth, and market strategies, all aimed at achieving key business goals.
Upon completing the program, the startups will join the Red Cedar Ventures portfolio, gaining access to ongoing coaching, support, and potential future investments.
To learn more about the Conquer Accelerator program or to apply for the next cohort, visit msufoundation.org/conquer-accelerator.