Founder Forward: Michigan Innovation Fellowship
BOLD FOUNDERS. BIG VISIONS. MICHIGAN’S FUTURE.
This year-long fellowship attracts and accelerates high-growth founders by providing capital, workspace, mentorship, and ecosystem access at Michigan Central—Detroit’s global hub for innovation.
Why Build in Michigan?
Michigan is where manufacturing, mobility, healthcare, and sustainability converge with bold new technologies. Anchored by global corporations and a rapidly growing startup ecosystem, founders here gain access to talent, capital, and cross-industry opportunities.
What Fellows Receive
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Support for housing, moving, or business growth.
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Coworking access to Newlab and Detroit’s innovation network.
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Expert workshops, office hours, and one-on-one advising.
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Connections to Michigan VCs + CDFI microloan support.
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Contribute 10+ hours of service and mentorship.
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Media, showcases, and statewide amplification.
Complete Program Insights
Immediate Capital to Land and Launch
Every fellow receives a $5,000 or $1,000 grant to either ease the cost of relocation to Michigan or strengthen their business foundation if they are already here. This funding supports essentials like housing, moving expenses, or critical startup infrastructure. It’s designed to remove barriers, giving founders the breathing room to focus on building and scaling.
Direct Access to Capital Networks
Founder Forward connects fellows with Michigan’s leading venture funds, corporate investors, and mission-driven capital partners. In addition to venture introductions, fellows receive support navigating CDFI-backed microloans and sustainability-focused capital programs—ensuring founders can fundraise for both immediate growth and long-term resilience.
Workspace at Detroit’s Innovation Hub
Fellows gain full access to Michigan Central and Newlab—a global hub for mobility, technology, and cross-industry collaboration. For twelve months, founders work side by side with innovators, corporations, and investors in one of the nation’s most dynamic entrepreneurial environments. This membership provides not just a desk, but an ecosystem.
Give Back While You Scale
Each fellow contributes at least 10 hours to service projects and structured mentorship with students or early-stage entrepreneurs. This creates a ripple effect of leadership, embedding fellows into Michigan’s community fabric while leaving a legacy that outlives the program itself.
Tailored Mentorship from Leaders Who’ve Built Before
The fellowship provides structured guidance from seasoned operators, investors, and ecosystem leaders. Fellows participate in monthly expert workshops, weekly office hours, and one-on-one advising tailored to their company’s stage and sector. From refining fundraising strategies to building scalable operations, the support is personalized and practical.
Showcased on Statewide and National Stages
Founder Forward positions its fellows as visible leaders in Michigan’s innovation economy. With media amplification, dedicated showcase events, and high-profile speaking opportunities, fellows gain recognition that drives credibility, partnerships, and investment.
Who We’re Looking For
Founder Forward is built for venture-backed, high-growth entrepreneurs ready to scale and anchor in Michigan.
Seed–Series A startups (raising $1M–$5M in 6 months)
CEO or leadership team member with 5+ years of experience
Sectors: mobility, manufacturing, healthcare, sustainability, tech
Willingness to contribute to the community through mentorship & engagement
Commitment to Michigan residency for 12 months (starting Feb 2026)
Your Fellowship Experience
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Application & Campaign
Oct 01 – Nov 31, 2025
We launch a national campaign to find the most ambitious founders ready to scale in Michigan. This is your chance to get on our radar early.
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Applications Open
October 15, 2025
Submit your application, pitch deck, company details, and references to secure your shot at a seat in the fellowship.
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Interview & Acceptance
Nov 15 – Dec 30, 2025
Top applicants are invited to interviews. Final selections are made, and formal offers with acceptance deadlines are issued—giving you certainty before making big commitments.
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Pre-Fellowship Preparation & Relocation
Jan 1 – Feb 28, 2026
Secure your place by providing relocation or business setup documents. Once confirmed, you’ll receive your $5,000 relocation or $1,000 retention grant and incentives to support your move or business growth. Standard relocation is Jan–Feb, but flexible options (by May) are available.
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Core Fellowship
Mar 1 – Sep 30, 2026
The fellowship begins at Michigan Central. You’ll gain workspace, expert coaching, capital introductions, and deep ecosystem integration—everything you need to grow fast.
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Showcase & Legacy
Sep / Oct 2026
Step into the spotlight. Present your progress at our statewide showcase with investors, partners, and Michigan’s innovation leaders. Leave with momentum, visibility, and lasting connections.
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Fellowship Transition
Oct 01 - Dec 15, 2026
We’ll continue to support you in this Fellowship transition. The formal programming will end, and the Founder Forward Team will support you as you transition to post-fellowship scale.
Ready to Apply?
Applications are open to founders who meet the eligibility requirements above. Submit your details below to be considered for the 2026 fellowship.
