Lansing, January 30, 2026
The PitchMI statewide championship highlights the innovation of Michigan entrepreneurs, featuring finalists competing for a share of a $4 million investment pool. This event will take place in Lansing, showcasing prominent startups that emerged from rigorous regional contests. The competition underscores Michigan’s commitment to fostering a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem, vital for economic growth and job creation.
Statewide PitchMI Competition Announces Championship in Lansing
Innovative Michigan Entrepreneurs Compete for $1 Million Investment
Lansing, Michigan – The upcoming PitchMI statewide championship is set to spotlight the creativity and resilience of local entrepreneurs. Scheduled for April 7, 2026, at Grewal Hall in Lansing, this competition aims to elevate Michigan’s innovative culture, offering significant investments and recognition to promising startups.
With a total pool of $4 million allocated through the Michigan State University (MSU) Research Foundation, the PitchMI competition has become one of the largest founder-focused startup initiatives in the nation. This underscores a growing commitment to fostering a healthy entrepreneurial ecosystem, the backbone of economic growth in the region.
Key Details of the PitchMI Championship
The PitchMI championship will host four finalist teams, each securing $250,000 from regional contests held in 2025. The teams are:
- BedConnect (Healthcare & Life Sciences)
- Electric Outdoors (CleanTech & Outdoor Innovation)
- General Orbit (Mobility, Defense, & Advanced Manufacturing)
- Adrenaline Interactive (Software & AI)
These startups emerged victorious among fierce regional competition, which showcased Michigan’s strategic industry strengths. The myths surrounding the challenges faced by startups are often countered by achievements in innovation and drive.
Comprehensive Investment Structure
The competition’s notable structure signals a strong investment by the state in fostering entrepreneurship. The MSU Research Foundation, together with support from the Michigan Innovation Fund and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), is nurturing a culture of innovation that sets the stage for significant business growth. By 2026, eight Michigan-based startups will collectively receive $4 million in direct investments.
The Role of Regional Events
Prior to the statewide championship, regional competitions were held in various locations:
- Grand Rapids – Healthcare & Life Sciences (September 29, 2025)
- Traverse City – CleanTech & Outdoor Innovation (September 30, 2025)
- Detroit – Mobility, Defense, & Advanced Manufacturing (October 1, 2025)
- Ann Arbor – AI & Software (October 2, 2025)
Each regional winner received crucial funding, reinforcing local economies while giving nuanced representation to Michigan’s diverse industry landscape. The region’s strength is amplified through these competitions, optimizing resources and talent.
Conclusion: Encouraging Local Involvement
The PitchMI competition serves as a catalyst for innovation and competitive spirit among Michigan entrepreneurs. With valuable investment opportunities at stake, local businesses can thrive, fostering an environment where creativity meets financial backing. By bolstering these entrepreneurial efforts, the state not only enhances its economy but also promotes dynamic job creation.
As such, residents are encouraged to engage actively with local business initiatives, support competing startups, and witness firsthand the strides that innovative minds are making within Michigan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the PitchMI competition?
The PitchMI competition is a statewide initiative aimed at fostering innovation and entrepreneurship across Michigan. It includes regional events where startups compete for investments, culminating in a statewide championship.
When and where is the PitchMI statewide championship taking place?
The PitchMI statewide championship is scheduled for Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 12:00 noon to 3:30 p.m. at Grewal Hall, 224 S. Washington Square, Lansing, Michigan.
Who are the teams participating in the championship?
The participating teams are BedConnect (Healthcare & Life Sciences), Electric Outdoors (CleanTech & Outdoor Innovation), General Orbit (Mobility, Defense, & Advanced Manufacturing), and Adrenaline Interactive (Software & AI).
How did these teams qualify for the championship?
These teams won regional competitions held in 2025, each securing a $250,000 investment. The regional events highlighted Michigan’s strategic industry strengths, including Healthcare & Life Sciences, CleanTech & Outdoor Innovation, Mobility, Defense, & Advanced Manufacturing, and AI & Software.
What is the total investment awarded through the PitchMI competition?
By the end of 2026, eight Michigan-based startups will have shared $4 million in direct investment, with two statewide winners each securing a total of $1.25 million.
How can I register to attend the championship event?
For more information and to register to attend the championship, visit the MSU Research Foundation’s PitchMI page.
Key Features of the PitchMI Competition
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Investment Amount | By the end of 2026, eight Michigan-based startups will have shared $4 million in direct investment, with two statewide winners each securing a total of $1.25 million. |
| Regional Competitions | Regional events highlighting Michigan’s strategic industry strengths, including Healthcare & Life Sciences, CleanTech & Outdoor Innovation, Mobility, Defense, & Advanced Manufacturing, and AI & Software. |
| Statewide Championship | Scheduled for Tuesday, April 7, 2026, from 12:00 noon to 3:30 p.m. at Grewal Hall, 224 S. Washington Square, Lansing, Michigan. |
| Participating Teams | BedConnect (Healthcare & Life Sciences), Electric Outdoors (CleanTech & Outdoor Innovation), General Orbit (Mobility, Defense, & Advanced Manufacturing), and Adrenaline Interactive (Software & AI). |
| Registration | For more information and to register to attend the championship, visit the MSU Research Foundation’s PitchMI page. |
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DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
