Michigan Resources

Biosciences Research & Commercialization (BRCC)

Provides start-up and gap funding to promising Michigan life sciences and medical device ventures entering the commercialization phase of development Visit

Defense Manufacturing Assistance Program (DMAP)

Provides technical assistance to defense manufacturers that includes both strategic and implementation planning. Offered through the University of Michigan’s Institute for the Research of Labor, Employment and the Economy (IRLEE). Visit

First Customer Program

Assesses a product market and develops a plan/path to first customer with specific actions and resources required. Offered through the University of Michigan’s Institute for Research on Labor, Employment, and the Economy (IRLEE). Visit

Inforum

Only professional organization in Michigan that combines strategic connections, proven professional development programs, a respected forum for new ideas, and original research to accelerate careers for women and boost talent initiatives for companies. Visit

MichBio

A non-profit association representing more than 600 biosciences companies, universities and academic institutions dedicated to advancing Michigan’s biosciences industry. Visit

Michigan Corporate Relations Network (MCRN)/ Business Engagement Centers (BEC)
A collaboration of six Michigan universities (University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and Dearborn, Michigan State University, Wayne State University, Michigan Technological University, and Western Michigan University). Each has an “entry point,” “one-stop-shop” or “business engagement center” to help companies find expertise, facilities, instrumentation or other resources within the university. Visit
Michigan Emerging Technologies Fund (MIETF)

Provides matching funds for both Phase I and Phase II SBIR/STTR awards. Note: Applications for MIETF matching funds must be made prior to submitting your SBIR/STTR proposal. Visit

Michigan Defense Center (MDC)

Helps companies identify commercial pathways post-SBIR/ STTR and develop strategic objectives to increase the state’s competitive advantage in the defense sector. Visit

I-Corps

A six-week program of hands-on learning to help you identify and validate potential markets for your technology.

Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC)

Matchmaking Program that helps identify manufacturers that will perform small manufacturing runs or build prototype for small businesses. Visit

Michigan SBIR/STTR Assistance Program

Training and one-on-one proposal preparation assistance to qualified companies with these services covered in whole or in part by the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) grant. Visit

Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBTDC) Tech Team

Free assistance in the areas of intellectual property guidance, preparing clients for angel or venture capital, management team assistance, strategic alliance building, marketing; and technology assessment. Visit

Michigan’s SmartZones™

Distinct geographical technology-clusters that include business accelerators to facilitate the commercialization of technology. Business accelerator services include networking events, business planning, incubator and wet lab space, and venture capital preparation and introductions. Visit

Michigan Pre-Seed Capital Fund

A $6.8 million fund aimed at supporting early stage high tech companies by making investments in opportunities originating from technology innovation in Michigan Universities and in pre-seed and seed stage investments. Visit

Michigan Pre-Seed Fund Microloan Program

Provides loans of up to $50,000 for items relating to product development, commercialization or business strategy. Intended for pre-revenue, technology-driven companies, that have not received outside investment and are still developing their product. Visit

Michigan Venture Capital Assn.

A non-profit trade organization designed to bring together venture capital industry participants in the state of Michigan. Visit

Multidisciplinary Action Project (MAP)

University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business MBA students work on a defined project for a sponsor organization, providing solid recommendations and solutions to the business, financial, marketing, human resources, operations and supply chain challenges. Visit

NextEnergy

Offers expertise in energy efficiency and storage, new mobility, power electronics, renewables, sustainability and vehicle electrification. Visit

Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTAC)
Provide no-fee, expert counseling to Michigan businesses, an electronic Bid-Match system, and a calendar of events to help companies identify opportunities and expand by selling to the government. Visit
Pure Michigan Business Connect

Small businesses can apply for free services, such as accounting, human resources, graphic design, website development and legal and other services. Apply

SCORE

A non-profit association of experienced volunteer professionals dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground and achieve their goals through education and mentorship. Visit

Small Company Innovation Program (SCIP)

Matching funds to help cover the cost of conducting a research project at an MCRN university (see above) so they can get to commercialization faster. Visit

Small Company Internship Award Program (SCIA)

Funding to help small businesses hire university students to work as interns on projects that are both beneficial to the company and academically relevant to the student. Visit

University of Michigan Masters of Entrepreneurship

A one-year program in which students work on projects for local companies. Visit

Zell Lurie Commercialization Fund

A pre-seed investment fund established to identify and accelerate the commercialization of ideas generated within the University community and the surrounding area.Visit

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Michigan Resources & Funding

Michigan Gateway Guide

The Gateway Representative Program
Introduces technology-based start-ups to the local Michigan ecosystem.  Provides an overview of the statewide tech ecosystem, strategic business guidance and helps companies with fundraising efforts. Learn more.

The Michigan Emerging Technologies Fund (MIETF) expands funding opportunities for Michigan technology companies seeking federal R&D funds via the SBIR/STTR programs. The MIETF will match both Phase I and Phase II awards until funds are exhausted. Note: Applications for MIETF matching funds must be made prior to submitting your SBIR/STTR proposal. Learn more

The Michigan Accelerating Technologies (MATch) Energy Grant Program provides matching funds to eligible Michigan businesses and universities applying for advanced energy-related federal funding. Learn more

Michigan Rise provides up to $250,000 in funding through priced or convertible financial instruments. This funding is in effort to help companies achieve commercial and technical milestones that will position them for future scaleup through capital, talent, etc. Learn more.

The First Capital Fund provides early-stage investment capital to high-tech startups. This funding enables companies with high-growth potential to meet developmental milestones that can help secure venture capital follow-on investments. Learn more.

From the Sources’ Mouth

Join our monthly series featuring SBIR/STTR program managers telling you what you need to know to have success with their agencies. These 1-hour virtual training sessions focus on one agency’s mission and tips for creating a successful proposal.  View the Series