Entrepreneurial Programs
Community Mentor in Residence
This program connects startups with industry experts to drive business growth, validate product-market fit, and fast-track product or service development. To receive guidance, complete the regional intake form and select both “MSU Research Foundation” and “SmartZone Programs” under the program list. Let’s take your startup to the next level!
Capital Area Startup Studio
The Capital Area Startup Studio helps founders build tech enabled businesses that strengthen our regional innovation ecosystem. The program includes both (1) an incubator for a select group of founders to receive training, guidance, and hands on support, and (2) a series of public events covering topics from low-code / no-code training and AI enablement to essential business skills that help small companies enable tech within their businesses and accelerate growth.
Conquer Accelerator
Gain the resources, mentorship, and network you need to rapidly scale your startup and thrive in a competitive marketplace. This program offers a tailored curriculum, personalized coaching, and access to capital to help you accelerate growth and achieve your business goals.
Youth Programs
Apple Developer Youth Coding Academy
In partnership with Apple’s Community Education Initiative, 4-H Clovers CODE helps youth develop life skills through hands-on experiences in coding, photography, video, drawing, and music. Supported by Apple’s technology, scholarships, and professional development, this program offers camps, clubs, and school partnerships to inspire creativity and innovation.
Other Programs
Business Made Simple
Business Made Simple is a new monthly series designed to help business owners simplify operations, enhance skills, and stay ahead in today’s digital landscape. Each session offers easy-to-understand tips, tools, and strategies to make managing your business simpler and more effective.
CADE Internship
Conquer Accelerator Diversity in Entrepreneurship (CADE) is the MSU Research Foundation’s first internship program designed to increase diversity within the entrepreneurial community by hiring young professionals from various ethnicities and backgrounds to collaborate with selected teams.