The MSU Research Foundation has recently made a significant stride forward by securing $4 million in funding to enhance PitchMI, which is set to become one of the most impactful startup competitions focused on founders in the entire nation. This ambitious initiative is backed by a $3 million award from the Michigan Innovation Fund, which is administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).
In addition to this substantial support, the Foundation’s new Michigan Rise Evergreen Fund will also play a vital role in bringing this project to life. Over the next two years, the program will span eight distinct regions of Michigan, creating opportunities for startups to shine.
PitchMI was initially launched in 2024 with a single $100,000 mobility challenge. However, this year it has evolved into a much larger competition. The reimagined format will feature eight different competitions, each awarding a remarkable $250,000 prize to the winners. Those who come out on top will then have the chance to advance to the statewide finals, where they can compete for an additional grand prize of $1 million.
By the conclusion of 2026, a total of eight startups based in Michigan will benefit from a shared investment of $4 million. Among these, the two statewide winners will each receive a total prize of $1.25 million, placing this competition among the most significant startup awards in the country.
To make the most of Michigan’s unique strengths, the regional pitches for the 2025 program will spotlight various competitive advantages that the state has to offer. The competition will kick off on September 29 in Grand Rapids, with a focus on the healthcare and life sciences sectors. Moving forward, the following days will feature Traverse City on September 30, highlighting CleanTech and outdoor innovation, followed by Detroit on October 1, which will emphasize mobility, defense, and advanced manufacturing. Finally, Ann Arbor will host its competition on October 2, showcasing advancements in AI and software.
While each event will take place in specific regions, the competitions will be open to startups from all over Michigan. This approach ensures that founders statewide have the opportunity to apply for and travel to any regional event that aligns with their innovations and goals. The winners will have the exciting opportunity to advance to the statewide finals, which are slated for April 2026 during the anticipated 517 Entrepreneurship & Innovation Week in East Lansing.
Looking ahead, the competition will return in 2026 with new regional events, expected to include other innovation hubs like Marquette and Kalamazoo, with final locations to be announced next year.
With the combined support from the Michigan Innovation Fund coalition, the MSU Research Foundation’s Michigan Rise Evergreen Fund, and the contributions from early co-investors, PitchMI stands as a testament to how Michigan’s universities, foundations, investors, and regional partners can collaboratively expand opportunities for founders from all walks of life.
KEY QUOTES:
“Michigan dreamers and doers innovate new ideas and drive the future. PitchMI empowers and unleashes Michigan entrepreneurs by giving them a statewide stage to showcase their ideas and connect with investors and partners. Governor Whitmer and I are proud of our work to support innovators through the Innovation Fund, R&D tax credit, and PitchMI. This kind of bold investment in homegrown innovation is how we prove Michigan is the best place to live, work, and build the future.”
Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II
“Michigan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem is strongest when we work together. We’re grateful to the MEDC and MSF Board for this investment, which strengthens our joint commitment to advancing Michigan’s innovation economy. By expanding access to capital and mentorship through statewide competitions, we’re helping to launch the next generation of high-impact startups.”
David Washburn, CEO of the MSU Research Foundation
“The Michigan Innovation Fund is a launching point for a much broader commitment by the State of Michigan to support entrepreneurship and innovation, and this need was underscored during the inaugural ‘PitchMI’ competition led by the Michigan Growth Office within the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Michigan has long been home to innovators and dreamers, and the MSF Board is proud to provide another ‘deposit’ into helping more Michigan start-ups reach commercial viability in the state that inspired their creation so that more people can ‘Make It in Michigan.’”
Quentin Messer, Jr., CEO of the MEDC and Chair of the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF), which approved funds to the MSU Research Foundation for a statewide competition
