Startup Services

Startup Services

We support high-tech, high-growth startups through every stage — from validating your idea and launching your product, to securing funding and scaling your company. Whether you’re commercializing MSU technology or building a new venture from scratch, our services help founders move forward with clarity, confidence, and expert support.

Explore & Validate Your Idea

We help founders assess the commercial potential of their ideas through early-stage evaluation, research funding, and IP strategy. Whether you’re just starting out or advancing a disclosure through MSU Technologies, our team helps you explore and validate before you build.

Market & Business Model Assessment

Validate your opportunity, assess your market, and refine your business model.

IP Strategy & Protection

Protect and position your innovation for commercial success.

Grant Strategy & Research Funding

Tap into SBIR/STTR and other non-dilutive funding to support early-stage R&D.

Form & Launch Your Startup

Once your idea is ready, we support you through the business formation process and connect you to startup programs that accelerate progress and prepare you for your first investment.

Startup Formation & Legal Setup

Incorporate your company, structure founder equity, and navigate legal essentials.

Accelerator Programs

Join a Conquer Accelerator program to gain traction, refine your strategy, and prepare for funding.

Tools & Resources

Access premium tools like PitchBook, learning modules, curated workshops, and our Startup Guide.

Build Your Business

From building a pitch deck to launching a product, we help early-stage startups grow through expert support, strategic partnerships, and flexible space designed for collaboration.

Business Plan & Pitch Support

Develop your pitch deck, business plan, and financial model to attract investment.

Product & Commercial Development

Move from prototype to product through early pilots, partnerships, and go-to-market planning.

Incubator Facilities & Startup Space

Access office, co-working, and research lab space in East Lansing, Grand Rapids, and Detroit.

Fund Your Growth

We help startups prepare for investment and connect with early-stage capital through our affiliated venture funds — designed to help Michigan startups form, scale, and succeed.

Venture Capital Readiness & Access

Prepare to pitch, connect with investors, and raise early-stage capital.

Early-Stage Capital

Secure pre-seed and seed funding through our Red Cedar Ventures and Michigan Rise venture funds.

Get Expert Support

Founders don’t have to do it alone. Our mentors and experts provide hands-on guidance, strategic advice, and real-world insights — from the first idea to long-term growth.

Mentorship & Expert Guidance

Work with Entrepreneurs-in-Residence, Mentors-in-Residence, and startup advisors.