July 2023 – June 2024 Impact Report

Driving technology advancement, equitable innovation, and inclusive growth

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Our Impact

Key Stats

$337,759.28

deployed through programs & services

1,037

client touchpoints

$8.8 Million

private & public raised by client companies

104

business expansions through LRSZ services

85%

occupancy in the Technology Innovation Center

Entrepreneur Spotlight

Loopy Products

Driven by a mission to reduce plastic waste, Kylee Guenther founded Loopy Products, creating sustainable home goods from upcycled agricultural waste. With LEAP’s support—including grant funding, BAF applications, and networking—Loopy launched its products at Meijer and showcased them at Ace Hardware’s 100th anniversary event.

Read more in the full report.

Mowr Technologies

Douglas Salazar and Gray Taylor founded Mowr Technologies to connect lawn care customers with local service providers through a convenient app. Without a tech background, they turned to LEAP – manager of the Lansing Regional SmartZone – for essential support. As part of LEAP’s 2024 Ascend program for Hispanic/Latino business owners, Mowr received funding and technical assistance, enabling their app launch and rapid growth. Mowr is now on track to double its revenue this year!

Read more in ful l report.

Attire

Kaylin Goddard founded Attire, a fashion app using AI to help users feel confident in their style choices, from purchase to outfit planning. Initially inspired as an MSU student, she sought out LEAP and the Lansing Regional SmartZone for funding, mentorship, and tech support. With LEAP’s resources and connections, Attire is set to launch soon!

Read more in the full report.

Key Programs

We proudly deployed over $337,000 to empower entrepreneurial ventures in the Lansing Region, reaching minority, women, veteran, disabled, LGBTQIA+, and other socially and economically disadvantaged business owners. By uplifting underrepresented voices, the Lansing Regional SmartZone fosters a more inclusive and accessible economy.

Download the full report to learn more about our key programs and impact.

Local Accelerator Funds (LAF)

Mentor in Residence (MIR)

99 Problems but a Pitch Ain’t One

Conquer and CADE

Teen in Entrepreneurship

Inclusive Tech Ambassador

Bridging the Digital Divide

YouTube Show for Startups

Apple Community Education Initiative

Launching Innovative Programs

Fund Your Acceleration Program

This groundbreaking initiative fosters innovation and accelerates the growth of high-tech companies in the Greater Lansing Region through the deployment of substantial grant funds.

Learn More About the Program

Capital Area Startup Studio

The Lansing Regional SmartZone partnered with local providers Bold Growth and Gravity Works Design & Development to develop the Capital Area Startup Studio, a new program that will boost the tech economy and propel tech innovation in the area by reducing barriers to entry for entrepreneurs to use tech tools to create new products — a first in the Lansing Region. This new program accomplishes our dual-focus on cutting-edge technologies and inclusive growth.

TREK Small Business Support Hub

This groundbreaking initiative fosters innovation and accelerates the growth of high-tech companies in the Greater Lansing Region through the deployment of substantial grant funds.

Learn More About the Program