LANSING, Mich. – Michigan’s entrepreneurship scene is set to ignite as four regional champions gear up for the PitchMI Championship, a high-stakes contest promising a $1 million investment prize.
Taking place on April 7, 2026, the event is scheduled at Grewal Hall, nestled in the heart of downtown Lansing, Michigan. Running from noon until 3:30 p.m., it forms a cornerstone of the 517 Entrepreneurship and Innovation Week, co-hosted by the Michigan State University (MSU) Research Foundation and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).
In the fall of 2025, Michigan founders vied for $1.7 million in investment during regional pitch events. This competition builds on 2024’s inaugural PitchMI event in Detroit as Michigan continues to solidify its reputation as a burgeoning startup hub. Alison Todak, vice president of entrepreneurship and innovation at MEDC, expressed optimism: “Michigan’s startup and innovation ecosystem is on fire… I wish we could invest in every single one of them!”
Quentin L. Messer, CEO at MEDC, emphasized the state’s innovative momentum, stating, “The four finalists competing in the PitchMI Championship demonstrate that the future of Michigan’s position at the forefront of innovation in healthcare, aerospace, outdoor recreation, and technology remains bright.” He commended Team Michigan’s efforts in bolstering the state’s entrepreneurial environment and predicted significant growth from the finalists.
David Washburn, CEO of the MSU Research Foundation, highlighted the competition’s objectives: “PitchMI is designed to support founders with access to serious capital, rigorous evaluation, and meaningful guidance right here in Michigan.” He noted how the competition’s structure fosters collaboration among partners and investors, aiding companies in advancing from initial traction to scaling.
The finalists in this year’s championship showcase the diverse entrepreneurial spirit thriving in Michigan:
- Adrenaline Interactive, a company enabling in-game advertising in popular titles like Fortnite and Roblox;
- BedConnect, which offers a digital platform that helps hospitals locate available nursing home beds for quicker patient discharges;
- Electric Outdoors, Inc., which designs a portable canopy that provides off-grid power, clean water, and internet connectivity for remote campers; and
- General Orbit, which develops navigation systems for satellites, enhancing their construction and control.
As one of the largest startup competitions in the U.S., PitchMI aims to spotlight Michigan’s most promising startups. Attracting 375 applications from over 100 communities across both peninsulas, the competition has engaged numerous investors through pitch evaluations and follow-up discussions.
About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)
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