Discover Michigan's best accelerators for your start-up

The accelerator is a virtual/hybrid program dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds, specifically those who are Black, Hispanic and Latino, Indigenous American, and/or Pacific Islander. It leverages the strengths of Detroit's startup ecosystem to provide access to funding, mentorship, and community partnerships. The program lasts for 13 weeks, beginning with two weeks in-person in Detroit, followed by ten weeks of virtual sessions, culminating in a final week featuring Investor Preview and Demo Day events. It is open to startups across various domains, including Artificial Intelligence, Fintech, Healthcare Tech, and Real Estate Tech. Key figures behind the organization include notable founders such as Brad Feld, Chisa Egbelu, Daniel Mason, David Brown, David Cohen, and Jared Polis. Participants receive a standard deal of $120K for 6% equity, along with valuable networking opportunities with experienced mentors and potential investors. The application process for the March 2024 hybrid program opens on September 12, 2023, while applications for the September 2024 program start on March 4, 2024.

Techstars Detroit Powered by J.P. Morgan's Website

This non-profit organization focuses on driving economic development in southeast Michigan, especially in the Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti regions. Its core mission is to foster growth and prosperity by supporting both early-stage startups and established businesses. A key initiative is the SPARK Acceleration Program, which provides essential resources for tech startups across various domains, including mobility, health and life sciences, fintech, and social entrepreneurship. The program connects startups with a network of business leaders and experienced entrepreneurs, while also offering co-working spaces, mentorship, and skills training through workshops and webinars. Funding for the business acceleration program is sourced from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and the Ann Arbor/Ypsilanti SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority. The organization is associated with prominent figures, including founder Rick Snyder. By facilitating key milestones for commercialization and profitability through business acceleration grants, it serves as a critical engine for economic growth in Washtenaw and Livingston counties.

Ann Arbor SPARK's Website

Fledge is a prominent global network of conscious company accelerators and investment funds dedicated to supporting mission-driven for-profit companies. The accelerator's mission is to equip entrepreneurs with the resources necessary to create impactful enterprises and cooperatives at scale through a rigorous seven-week program filled with education, mentorship, and guidance. Each location hosts up to one session annually, providing targeted support for startups aligned with sustainable business practices across various industries, including Agriculture Tech, Clean Energy, Environmental Tech, Fintech, and Renewable Energy. Investment offers vary by region, providing $15,000 in Peru, 15,000 in Europe, and $20,000 in the United States, structured as revenue-based equity to promote aligned interests between the organization and founders. Participants benefit from access to a vast network of hundreds of mentors and a curriculum centered around essential entrepreneurial skills, bolstered by one-on-one mentorship sessions. Founded by Francesco Persivale, Luni Libes, and Roberto Persivale, they emphasize storytelling's role in business success, ensuring that participants accrue lasting value well beyond the program's conclusion.

Fledge's Website

Desai Accelerator is a business accelerator program specifically designed for tech-enabled startups. It offers an intensive seven-month program for early-stage ventures. Participating startups receive a $25,000 investment, along with over $500,000 in resources, including skilled student interns, cloud credits, and legal support. The accelerator focuses on early-stage tech startups aiming to reach their first $1 million in revenue and requires at least one founder to be a recent graduate of the University of Michigan - Ann Arbor. Founded by Gabriel Richard, the program provides tailored mentorship, hands-on training, national visibility, collaborative workspace in downtown Ann Arbor, and free access to a 10-intern talent pool. Additionally, startups benefit from meeting industry authorities, entrepreneurs, and tech experts, as well as gaining an instant network of partners, mentors, and potential investors. The accelerator specializes in industries like Edtech and General Tech, offering seed funding and a 10-month duration from May through March.

Desai Accelerator's Website

TechArb is a dynamic student venture accelerator program at the University of Michigan, dedicated to supporting early-stage startups founded by students. It offers a diverse range of resources, mentorship, and a collaborative environment, fostering the growth and success of student-led ventures. The initiative provides invaluable connections to experienced entrepreneurs, investors, and alumni within the University of Michigan community. Notable startups associated with this program include Bambú, which promotes sustainability and eco-friendliness on campus; ParkTime Inc., a platform that facilitates the reservation of private parking spaces; and Spacecraft Charging Monitor, a device designed to monitor spacecraft voltage for various industries. It encompasses multiple specialization domains, including edtech, environmental tech, mobile apps, renewable energy, and SaaS. The accelerator prioritizes low-cost solutions, which allows startups to innovate without significant financial constraints. With guidance from industry professionals and a supportive network, the organization strives to be a launchpad for entrepreneurship, making a meaningful impact within the university and the wider community. Gabriel Richard is one of the key founders behind this initiative.

TechArb's Website

The prominent business accelerator is dedicated to early-stage tech-enabled startups, focusing on ventures aiming to achieve their first $1 million in revenue. The program spans seven months and offers a comprehensive suite of support, including a $25,000 investment and access to over $500,000 in resources, which encompasses skilled student interns, cloud credits, and legal support. Designed to be founder-friendly, the accelerator emphasizes actionable advice and measurable results, facilitating an environment conducive to rapid growth. Entrepreneurs benefit from robust mentorship and networking opportunities by engaging with industry authorities, serial entrepreneurs, and marketing experts within the thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem of Ann Arbor, Michigan. Specializing in various technology sectors, including Edtech and General Tech, it has a history of supporting startups that have realized significant success. Notably, Foodstand co-founder Rachna Govani attributes part of their achievement to the extensive network and resources available. Led by Gabriel Richard, the program continues to empower entrepreneurs as they navigate their business journeys with enhanced confidence and capability.

University of Michigan - Desai Accelerator's Website

This nonprofit technology business association serves as Michigan's Industry 4.0 Knowledge Center and is recognized as a World Economic Forum Advanced Manufacturing Hub (AMHUB). The organization operates the Industry 4.0 Accelerator in partnership with the Centrepolis Accelerator at Lawrence Technological University and Lean Rocket Lab in Jackson. It houses a $2.5 million investment fund, with $1.3 million currently available for early-stage companies and established firms focused on commercializing products, services, or technologies in the Industry 4.0 sector, which includes advanced manufacturing, automation, and digital transformation. The accelerator facilitates training and education for startups, enhancing their capabilities in Industry 4.0 technologies while also providing valuable exposure to corporate partners. Founded by Brooks Patterson, the institution drives growth and success for businesses both in Michigan and globally by fostering innovation and collaboration within the tech ecosystem. This initiative attracts startups worldwide, aiming to connect them with the resources and expertise necessary to thrive in an increasingly automated business landscape.

Automation Alley's Website

Located in Detroit, this prominent technology and life sciences incubator is dedicated to aiding local businesses in launching and scaling operations within the vibrant ecosystem. It fosters a community of entrepreneurs, investors, mentors, and service providers, connecting them to essential resources, learning, and networking events. A key initiative is the Mobility Accelerator Innovation Network (MAIN), established as part of the Global Epicenter of Mobility initiative. MAIN is designed to accelerate the growth of mobility startups, addressing gaps in the mobility value chain with support from various coalition partners, including the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and the University of Michigans Economic Growth Institute. The initiative benefits from substantial funding, including a $52.2 million grant from the U.S. Economic Development Administration and an additional $12.4 million allocated specifically for mobility startups. The program aims to enhance Detroit's status as a leader in electrified, autonomous, and connected mobility. Moreover, the institution supports businesses across diverse industries, including Clean Energy, General Tech, Mobile Apps, and Social Media, ensuring a comprehensive ecosystem to streamline support for founders and promote innovation in the region.

TechTown's Website

The Richard M. and Helen DeVos Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, situated within the Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University in Allendale, Michigan, is dedicated to fostering and catalyzing entrepreneurship in West Michigan. Its mission centers around developing best practices in entrepreneurship education and community engagement, significantly impacting new ventures and opportunities. This institution nurtures all students by offering courses, integrating entrepreneurial principles into the curriculum, facilitating peer-to-peer networking, encouraging participation in entrepreneurial competitions, and providing mentorship from seasoned entrepreneurs. Additionally, it serves as a vital hub for the entrepreneurial community, providing access to valuable resources, mentorship, networking opportunities, regional and national conferences, workshops, and high-tech incubation facilities. Entrepreneurs from various industries, including Edtech and General Tech, can benefit from its diverse support system. Its comprehensive ecosystem offers vibrant networking and the potential for securing capital resources to aid startup development. Overall, this center stands as a pivotal resource for aspiring entrepreneurs in the region, fostering a collaborative environment for innovation and growth.

Grand Valley State - DeVos Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation's Website

The Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Eastern Michigan University (EMU), established in 1986, fosters a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation within the EMU community in Ypsilanti, Michigan. The center offers various programs and initiatives, including the Executive Certificate in Entrepreneurship, providing participants with business instruction, mentorship, networking, and the opportunity to pitch startup ideas for a $25,000 business expense fund. Additionally, the center hosts the annual Sesi Midwest Entrepreneurship Conference, the Skandalaris Business Plan Competition, and the EMU Elevator Pitch Competition to support entrepreneurship among students. The center specializes in fostering entrepreneurship across various fields at EMU and benefits from mentorship and coaching services within the Michigan entrepreneurship community. Dr. Sanjib Chowdhury, the Diane and Bruce Halle Foundation Chair in Entrepreneurship, plays a key role in the center's initiatives. EMU students actively engage in organizing events, programs, and entrepreneurship-related competitions. Overall, the Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at EMU nurtures entrepreneurship and innovation in southeast Michigan, particularly within the Edtech industry.

Eastern Michigan University - Center for Entrepreneurship's Website

Based in Southfield, Michigan, this institution is dedicated to fueling the growth of small manufacturers and hardware entrepreneurs in Southeast Michigan. It focuses primarily on advanced manufacturing and innovative hardware entrepreneurship, providing essential resources to businesses in this sector. The accelerator offers a comprehensive set of benefits, including access to experienced mentors, workshops on various business and technical topics, cutting-edge technologies, and networking opportunities with established companies. Additionally, participants can engage with academic institutions, attend industry events, and collaborate in a supportive workspace. The program is designed to enhance the manufacturing and hardware ecosystem in Michigan, offering a collaborative community for aspiring entrepreneurs. It serves as a pivotal resource in the region and supports industries such as environmental tech, fintech, and renewable energy, further solidifying its role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurial growth.

Centrepolis Accelerator's Website

The organization serves as a premier technology and life sciences incubator, dedicated to fostering the growth of Detroit businesses. Established as part of the Global Epicenter of Mobility (GEM) initiative in April 2023, it launched the Mobility Accelerator Innovation Network (MAIN) to propel innovation in the mobility sector. This ambitious program received a substantial funding boost of $52.2 million from the U.S. Economic Development Administration and $12.4 million to develop the initiative alongside partners including General Motors, the University of Michigan, and Wayne State University. MAIN supports mobility startups at all stages, ensuring a thriving ecosystem within Detroit and Southeast Michigan. The institution offers essential resources, including coworking spaces, meeting areas, and networking events that connect entrepreneurs with key industry mentors and service providers. By focusing on sectors such as clean energy, logistics, and general technology, it not only supports local entrepreneurs but also positions itself as a crucial player in the electrified and autonomous future of mobility. Its strategic initiatives and partnerships play a vital role in maintaining Detroit's leadership in innovation across multiple industries.

TechTown Detroit's Website

This program is specifically designed to enhance the adoption of disruptive Industry 4.0 technologies among Michigan manufacturers, thereby increasing their global competitiveness. Spanning six to twelve months, it offers one-on-one business support, mentorship, and vital introductions to strategic partners. The initiative collaborates with startups and manufacturing partners while providing access to a dense ecosystem of investors, economic development organizations, and industry experts. Specializing in areas like IoT, data analytics, automation, and smart manufacturing, the organization addresses specific problems encountered by manufacturers on their Industry 4.0 journey. Notable testimonials from participants, including Rene Pons, CEO of a tech client, and Mike Cukier of Whirlpool, underscore the unparalleled exposure and problem-solving expertise available through the program. Supported by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, this initiative enhances its capabilities for local companies. While primarily focused on Michigan-based firms, it also welcomes technology companies from outside the state to join as manufacturing partners. Overall, the program is committed to fostering innovation and collaboration within the manufacturing landscape.

Industry 4.0 Accelerator's Website

The organization serves as North America's first dedicated program for fostering Industry 4.0 technologies, spearheaded by Michigan's leading technology and manufacturing business association. In partnership with the Centrepolis Accelerator at Lawrence Technological University and Lean Rocket Lab, they aim to enhance the global competitiveness of Michigan manufacturers by accelerating the adoption of advanced technologies. With a robust $2.5 million investment fund, of which $1.3 million is currently available, the program supports both early-stage and established firms seeking to innovate within the Industry 4.0 sector. Participants benefit from exposure to customers, investors, and industry experts while having access to invaluable resources for commercializing new products and solutions. The focus includes several key domains, such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, augmented reality, and robotics. With a structured program lasting 24 weeks, it strategically connects disruptive technologies with the problem-solving needs of corporate partners, thereby fostering collaboration and innovation. This initiative not only aids startups in gaining traction but also empowers small manufacturers to leverage state grants for integrating transformative technologies into their operations.

Automation Alley Industry 4.0 Accelerator's Website

This innovation-focused startup accelerator is dedicated to connecting technology start-ups with industry leaders, offering equity investment and expert guidance. The program runs for 13 weeks, with a specific emphasis on supporting ventures within the physical product and insurtech domains, as well as fintech and general tech industries. Participants gain access to necessary capital, mentorship, and industry connections aimed at fostering collaboration and enhancing business growth. The organization not only invests in and builds start-ups through strong ties with industry partners but also ensures accountability in implementing innovative strategies. By facilitating partnerships between promising start-ups and seasoned industry leaders, the program drives innovation and value across various sectors, ultimately positioning participants for success in their respective markets.

Proto Accelerator's Website

optiMize Incubator is a dynamic accelerator based at the University of Michigan, designed to empower entrepreneurs focused on social innovation and positive change. The program fosters a vibrant community that encourages collaboration and skill development. Startups benefit from structured mentorship, funding opportunities, and a supportive network that enhances their ability to navigate the complexities of building impactful ventures. The organization specializes in nurturing early-stage companies across diverse domains, including education technology, general technology, and healthcare technology. Key metrics monitored include revenue growth, customer acquisition, and customer retention, which reflect the startups market viability and success. Through a mixture of workshops and intensive programs, it enhances the founders' skill sets, enabling them to turn their ideas into meaningful impact. Although the exact duration of the program is not specified, it typically spans several months, providing ample opportunities for learning and networking. This structure prepares startups to create a more just and sustainable world, aligning with the overall mission of the institution.

optiMize Incubator's Website

Established in 2014 and based in Los Angeles, California, this active venture studio focuses on fostering the growth of technology start-ups. Specializing in various sectors, including cybersecurity and general tech, it is led by notable founders such as Adam Leonard, Cesar Devers, Clay Unicorn, Jorge Villavicencio, and Michael Hall. The organization provides support for businesses aiming to launch, grow, profit, and achieve acquisition. Operating within a competitive ecosystem, it parallels the success of renowned accelerators like Y Combinator, which is recognized for its potential value that includes access to a broad network of alumni founders, mentorship opportunities, and the brand endorsement associated with being tied to an established venture studio. Its mission centers on equipping start-ups with essential resources to navigate the dynamic venture landscape and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Unicorn Venture Studio's Website

Venturit Inc is a technology company with over 14 years of experience, specializing in advanced solutions such as AI, Machine Learning, Blockchain, and IoT. It focuses on building innovative and intelligent applications while maintaining a swift and quality-centric software delivery process. Their expertise encompasses full-stack development, excelling in providing automated and precise AI systems alongside robust Quality Assurance (QA) services that ensure defect prevention in software products. The organization also operates an accelerator program designed to support start-ups within their specialization domains, primarily in AI, Machine Learning, Blockchain, and IoT. As an extension of their partners teams, they prioritize daily communication, clear expectations, and transparency throughout the project lifecycle. This collaborative approach enables the institution to turn ambitious product ideas into reality. Founded by Prabode Weebadde, it has successfully helped various start-ups, fostering a vibrant ecosystem for technological innovation.

Venturit's Website

An economic development organization dedicated to fostering a vibrant business ecosystem in Michigan's capital region, it focuses on creating robust support systems for local entrepreneurs. One of its flagship initiatives is the PROTO Accelerator, a specialized startup accelerator that provides essential support for entrepreneurs concentrating on physical products and insurtech. The program offers select startups $60,000 in seed funding to transition from concept to prototype, along with additional backing during manufacturing stages. Besides financial assistance, the accelerator delivers critical resources in areas such as prototyping, legal affairs, marketing, and business strategies. It enhances micro-innovation experiences by connecting local Michigan-based companies with the global startup community, promoting collaboration and growth. The program plays a pivotal role in supporting startups within industries such as fintech and general tech, leveraging Michigan's rich research capabilities and industry talent. By focusing on operational and technological innovation, the accelerator ensures its participants remain competitive and profitable, thus contributing to a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Lansing area.

Lansing Economic Area Partnership's Website

Founded in 2017 in Michigan, this organization is dedicated to empowering innovative entrepreneurship and disruptive technologies. The accelerator provides a nurturing environment for startups, focusing on both technological and non-technological innovations that have the potential to create a global impact. It evaluates startups, monitors industry trends, and supports funding to facilitate growth and scalability. Key initiatives include Pitch Club Michigan, launched in September 2017, which serves as a platform for startups to present their ideas to investors and funding experts. Additionally, the accelerator recognizes the vital role of India in the global startup ecosystem through its Pitch Club India initiative, fostering cross-pollination and deal flow among innovators. Operating across various sectors including agriculture technology, biotechnology, fintech, fitness and wellness, travel and tourism, and more, the programs offer mentorship, funding access, business resources, and connections to the Pitch Club audience in the American market. By facilitating collaboration between startups and investors, it plays a crucial role in bridging gaps within the startup landscape while promoting growth and innovation on a global scale.

Kyyba Innovations's Website

Founded in 2015 and based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, this innovative accelerator program under Start Garden is dedicated to fostering collaboration across various industries by breaking down traditional silos in innovation, focusing on aging, wellness, sustainability, and mobility. The organization supports startups, enterprises, and the public sector to collectively address challenges and create impactful solutions. It has made 28 investments, maintains a portfolio of 17 companies, and has achieved 11 successful exits. The accelerator specializes in the Internet of Things (IoT) sector, providing resources and mentorship to startups developing connected devices and data-driven solutions. Additionally, their focus extends to industries such as Artificial Intelligence, Fitness and Wellness, Healthcare Tech, and Renewable Energy. By partnering startups with global enterprises, the program enhances the potential for innovation in these critical fields.

Seamless Ventures's Website

The Underground is a designated Smartzone business incubator situated in downtown Port Huron. It offers cozy co-working spaces, private offices, and meeting rooms for lease, catering to entrepreneurs, remote workers, freelancers, and creatives. The accelerator supports various industries, including Sector Agnostic, providing access to entrepreneurial funding.

The Underground's Website

This prominent business incubator, accelerator, and coworking space is located in Sterling Heights, Michigan, serving as a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation in Macomb County. It specializes in high-tech and advanced manufacturing sectors, with a particular focus on the Defense industry. The programs offered include an incubator designed to support early-stage companies through guidance and education, an accelerator that provides detailed assessments for advancing second-stage businesses, and coworking spaces for collaboration and networking. Customizable room rentals are also available for meetings and events. The organization enhances the entrepreneurial journey by providing access to an Entrepreneur in Residence who offers one-on-one coaching, as well as brainstorming sessions to assess business proposals for sustainability. Testimonials from participants underscore the accelerator's effectiveness in fostering connections with local business networks and resources, highlighting its role in making the entrepreneurial experience more collaborative and impactful. Overall, it is dedicated to accelerating innovation and growth within the local manufacturing, technology, and defense industries, driving forward the entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region.

Velocity (Michigan)'s Website

A strategic platform designed to support entrepreneurs and business leaders aiming for exponential growth within 12 months, it begins with a strategic planning session that allows participants to establish a robust business plan. Entrepreneurs navigate through four foundational stages, equipping them with essential knowledge and tools while promoting a balanced approach to their long-term goals. Progress is monitored via weekly communications and 12 monthly strategic growth sessions, each tailored to different facets of the business. The organization primarily focuses on the transportation, mobility, and logistics sectors, offering expertise in industrial cargo transportation, supply chain logistics, and distribution services. Additionally, there is an emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency, reflected in the ISO 9001-2015 certification for safe transport of hazardous materials. Collaboration with Fundación Coaniquem underscores a commitment to corporate social responsibility. The accelerator operates various programs, including growth, startup mentoring, and entrepreneurship initiatives, providing non-equity assistance to budding startups in the delivery services and general tech industries. This cohesive support structure positions it as a valuable resource for aspiring entrepreneurs in the logistics domain.

Samex | B3: Focused Growth Accelerator's Website

Founded in 1999 by MIT alumni, this organization is dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship in Southeast Michigan. Since 2002, it has focused on the commercialization and acceleration of startups, providing essential support to help them transition from concept to market launch. Emphasizing collaboration among business, academia, and government, it uniquely positions itself in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. The accelerator program offers early commercialization services such as technology-specific business development consultations, intellectual property guidance, market research, and business planning support. Additionally, the program includes business acceleration services that enhance investor presentations, improve public relations strategies, and facilitate matchmaking with key industry executives. Successful participants are rewarded with over $200,000 worth of combined cash and in-kind support, providing valuable resources like mentoring and business development consulting. The impact on Michigan's innovation landscape is significant, particularly in the general tech industry. Through a continuous focus on effective commercialization strategies, this institution serves as a vital catalyst for fostering robust entrepreneurial growth in the Great Lakes region.

MI Innovation Alliance's Website

NextCycle Michigan is an accelerator program that connects entrepreneurs, organizations, and communities to enhance recycling, recovery, and reuse initiatives within the state. It aims to develop investment-ready project plans, ultimately keeping waste out of landfills and fostering demand for recovered materials among local manufacturers. The program runs a six-month accelerator emphasizing equitable and environmentally positive solutions. It focuses on recycling, recovery, reuse, and the creation of material end markets, supporting projects that divert materials from landfills and integrate recovered materials into marketable products. The institution provides vital coaching and planning support to help teams refine their projects and establish partnerships within its network, bolstering their chances of success. Through these efforts, the accelerator plays a significant role in promoting sustainable practices and advancing a robust circular economy across the state. The impact of this initiative is evident in its mission to drive positive environmental change and economic growth, contributing to industries including Clean Energy, Environmental Tech, and Renewable Energy.

NextCycle Michigan's Website