Michigan Resources
Funding
University Funding Programs
This list includes funding programs for projects that have commercialization potential and have not yet been spun out of universities, as well as funds that invest specifically in companies commercializing technology developed in and licensed from Michigan universities.
PreSeed Funds
This list included funding programs supported by the MEDC that invest at stages too early for private-sector investors to invest in on their own.
Angel Investors
Angel investors are high-net-worth individuals who invest in high-risk/high-return business opportunities. They often invest in sectors in which they have interest, expertise, and contacts, bringing more to the table than just money. Angel investors may be willing to invest in pre-seed and seed rounds. They often congregate in groups to better identify and assess investment opportunities. This list includes Michigan’s angel groups.
Venture Capital
Venture capital firms raise funds from institutional investors and high-net-worth individuals, and invest those funds into high-risk/high-return business opportunities. They typically invest upwards of $1 million and are not likely to invest in pre-seed or seed rounds. This list includes several Michigan-based venture capital firms.
Other Funding Programs
Funding programs that do not fit in the other categories listed.
Services
Accelerator/Consulting Services
Michigan has a wide range of government-funded services to assist with your business startup, development, and growth. Support may come in the form of one-on-one consulting and mentoring, or education and training through short workshops or cohort sessions that extend several weeks. Typical areas of assistance include startup support, commercialization planning, team building (HR), financing strategies, marketing and sales, strategic planning, execution, and more.
Talent Services
Internship programs, job fairs, and organizations/programs specifically designed to help businesses identify, hire, develop, and retain qualified individuals.
University Student Programs
Clubs, funding, opportunities to work with faculty, and other support for university students starting innovative companies. Usually restricted to students attending the university that hosts the program.
Facilities
Incubators
Business incubators offer affordable and flexible office and/or lab space for early-stage companies. They usually offer formal support in addition to space.
Coworking Spaces
Coworking spaces offer flexible office space in a stimulating environment. They often include additional amenities such as meeting rooms or access to kitchen facilities. These are best suited to independent professionals or individual employees. Please note, this list includes several for-profit entities that have NOT been vetted by BBCetc. Please do your diligence before entering into any agreements.
University/Non-profit Labs, Testing, and Prototyping
Some of the most exciting research and technology/product development is taking place in Michigan laboratories and testing facilities. There may be opportunities for you to collaborate and/or get credible third-party validation for your technology.
Michigan Economic Development Corporation
MEDC works with Michigan businesses and communities of all sizes to deliver the services and support they need to grow and succeed. With a network of more than 100 partners, MEDC propels Michigan to boldly drive the world forward. https://www.michiganbusiness.org/