Applications Open for Michigan’s 2026–27 PitchMI Startup Competitions[embed]https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b7KkbyxLah4[/embed]

LANSING, Mich. – Startups across Michigan are gearing up for the 2026–27 PitchMI competitions. This significant event offers a chance for these startups to secure $250,000 in prize money at each of the four semifinals. Additionally, winners will compete for a grand prize of $1 million at the statewide PitchMI Championship. Recognized as one of the largest startup competitions in the U.S., PitchMI aims to discover and support Michigan’s leading startups.

The competitions will focus on key sectors where Michigan has demonstrated strengths:

• Defense & Aerospace: Grand Rapids on Sep. 15.
• AI & Software: Kalamazoo on Sept. 22.
• Advanced Manufacturing, Materials, & Outdoors: Marquette on Sept. 24.
• Healthcare & Life Sciences: Detroit on Oct. 1.

Entrepreneurs interested in this high-growth opportunity can learn more and apply by visiting PitchMI.org. The deadline for applications is Monday, Aug. 10.

The 2026 PitchMI Championship was the grand finale of the state’s extensive search for the most innovative startups, underscoring Michigan’s dedication to nurturing a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Throughout the 2025-26 cycle, PitchMI provided over $2.3 million in investment capital. The journey to the championship began in 2025 with regional pitch events that attracted 375 applications from founders across more than 100 communities in Michigan.

“PitchMI gives these entrepreneurs a stage that matches the quality of what they’re building,” stated Ben Marchionna, MEDC’s Chief Innovation Ecosystem Officer after the championship. “Companies like these are how Michigan attracts and retains exceptional people, creates high-wage jobs, and builds a durable, innovation-driven economy.”

The initiative, organized by the MEDC and the MSU Research Foundation, is designed to offer substantial capital, thorough evaluation, and significant exposure to the state’s most promising startups. “PitchMI reflects our collective commitment to strengthening the innovation ecosystem by connecting entrepreneurs with the capital, mentorship, and visibility they need to accelerate and scale right here in Michigan,” emphasized David Washburn, CEO of the MSU Research Foundation.

Michigan is further enhancing its entrepreneurial landscape with tools such as a $60 million investment in early-stage startups via the Michigan Innovation Fund, R&D tax credits for small businesses, a statewide Innovation Alliance, and increased access to resources for underrepresented founders. Over the last five years, these state investments have catalyzed more than 15,800 jobs and supported the creation of over 1,400 high-tech companies. Impressively, for every $1 invested by the state, founders have leveraged roughly $85 from other sources.

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)