Michigan Joins Global Innovation Initiative to Boost Entrepreneurship
Innovation and entrepreneurship are set to take center stage in Michigan as the state embarks on a transformative journey through the MIT Regional Entrepreneurship Acceleration Program (MIT REAP). This initiative, which commenced with a three-day workshop in Cambridge, MA, in November 2024, aims to foster conversations and actions that catalyze innovation-driven entrepreneurship across Michigan.
MIT REAP has recognized Michigan as a participant in its 11th Global program cohort, joining an international effort to exchange best practices and implement strategies for economic growth. Over the next two years, Michigan will leverage MIT’s frameworks to enhance its entrepreneurial ecosystem.
This global initiative by MIT REAP is designed to empower communities worldwide by implementing a structured, evidence-based approach. It translates MIT’s research into actionable frameworks, bringing together key stakeholders to drive economic and social change.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer emphasized Michigan’s long-standing tradition of innovation, stating, “Michigan has long been a home for dreamers who chase bold ideas. Our selection for MIT REAP’s Cohort 11 underscores our commitment to leading the nation in growing our economy and helping innovators build the future.”
MIT REAP’s unique approach involves engaging regional leaders from various sectors to tailor strategies that align with local histories and goals. Professor Fiona Murray, MIT REAP Faculty Co-Director, remarked, “By convening committed community leaders from the five key stakeholder groups and working closely with the MIT REAP faculty, each region is able to target its capacities and opportunities for growth.”
Leading the charge for Michigan is Ben Marchionna, Chief Innovation Ecosystem Officer at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. He is joined by influential leaders from government, academia, business, and finance, including:
- Jim Baker, Michigan Tech University
- Nia Batts, Union Heritage
- Christina Drake, Renaissance VC
- Peter Hill, Business Leaders for Michigan
- Camille Hoisington, Traverse Connect
- Rishi Moudgil, Michigan Founder’s Fund
- Luke Polcyn, City of Detroit
- Eileen Sellaro, Bedrock Detroit
- Kelly Sexton, University of Michigan
- Jeff Smith, Michigan State University Research Foundation
- Jonathan Smith, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity
Ben Marchionna expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating, “The state of Michigan has embarked on one of the most exciting and ambitious journeys in its history. A journey focused on transforming its economy through innovation-driven entrepreneurship.”
Professor Scott Stern, MIT REAP Faculty Co-Director, highlighted the collaborative nature of the program, “No one is in charge of entrepreneurship. Instead, multiple stakeholders are required to tackle big problems and enable the success of novel solutions – across business, healthcare, education, and more.”
For more information on opportunities for entrepreneurs and innovators in Michigan, visit Make It in Michigan.
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