A new $4 million competition aims to put Michigan startups on the national stage.
PitchMI, one of the largest startup pitch awards in the country, will award direct investment to entrepreneurs across the state.
The program includes four regional competitions, with Detroit hosting one on Oct. 1.
Eight startups will each win $250,000 and move on to the state finals for a chance at an additional $1 million grand prize.
By the end of 2026, eight Michigan companies will share $4 million in funding, with two winners each securing a total of $1.25 million.
PitchMI is designed to highlight Michigan’s competitive strengths in artificial intelligence and software, healthcare and life sciences, cleantech and outdoor innovation, mobility, defense, and advanced manufacturing.
The Michigan State University Research Foundation helped launch the initiative. Applications are open now at msufoundation.org/PitchMI.