Conquer Accelerator Programs

Conquer Accelerator Programs

Our cohort-based Conquer Accelerator programs push startups to move faster, think sharper, and build stronger companies. Through a targeted curriculum, hands-on coaching, and direct access to investors and advisors, founders get the structure, feedback, and network they need to turn early traction into real growth.

Detroit Area HealthTech

Our Detroit accelerator is open to Detroit-area companies providing HealthTech products or services.

Stage: Preference is given to companies at the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or beta stage, with a focus on those showcasing early traction.
Location: Program is based in Detroit
Duration: 10-weeks
Term: Spring (Jan-Apr)

Applications Close December 5, 2025

POWERED BY:

East Lansing Area

Our East Lansing accelerator is open to Michigan-based companies operating in any industry.

Stage: Preference is given to companies at the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or beta stage, with a focus on those showcasing early traction.
Location: Program is based in East Lansing
Duration: 10-weeks
Term: Summer (July-Sept)

Applications Open April 2026

IN ASSOCIATION WITH:

Grand Rapids Area

Our Grand Rapids accelerator is open to high-tech, high-growth companies based in the Grand Rapids region.

Stage: Preference is given to companies at the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or beta stage, with a focus on those showcasing early traction.
Location: Program is based in Grand Rapids
Duration: 10-weeks
Term: Fall (Sept-Nov)

Applications Open July, 2026

POWERED BY:

EdTech

Our EdTech accelerator is open to early-stage education technology companies focused on K-12, secondary, and workforce education solutions across the United States.

Stage: Preference is given to companies at the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or beta stage, with a focus on those showcasing early traction.
Location: Program is based in East Lansing
Duration: 10-weeks
Term: Fall (Sept-Nov)

Applications Open July, 2026

POWERED BY:

FinTech

Our FinTech accelerator is open to financial technology companies operating anywhere in the United States.

Stage: Preference is given to companies at the Minimum Viable Product (MVP) or beta stage, with a focus on those showcasing early traction.
Location: Program is based in East Lansing
Duration: 10-weeks
Term: Spring (Jan-Apr)

Applications Open October 2026

POWERED BY:

Early-Stage

Our Pre-Accelerator is open to early-stage companies located within Michigan.

Stage: Early-stage, Proof of Concept (POC) companies needing to get to a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and early traction.
Locations: Programs are based in East Lansing, Grand Rapids, and Detroit
Duration: 9-18 months
Term: Programs operate on an ongoing, ad-hoc basis.

Looking for MSU student startup support?

The Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation provides startup resources and mentorship to MSU students of any major.

Program Benefits

Tailored Curriculum

Learn what matters most. Our industry-focused curriculum covers market trends, customer behavior, and go-to-market strategy—built to meet real startup challenges.

Expert Mentorship

Work directly with seasoned founders, investors, and experts who offer strategic guidance and honest feedback to help you grow faster and smarter.

Access to Capital

Pitch to investors and explore funding opportunities through our connected network—designed to help you raise and scale.

Learning Modules

Deepen your entrepreneurial skills through targeted workshops that spark creativity, sharpen your thinking, and open new opportunities.

Validation & Testing

Test your solution with real users and industry partners to refine your offering and prove market fit.

Collaborative Environment

Surround yourself with fellow founders. Our cohort model fosters connection, feedback, and potential partnerships that last beyond the program.

Legal & Regulatory Support

Get support navigating incorporation, compliance, and IP strategy so you can focus on building—not red tape.

“They ask questions that investors care about, which will push you to think about your business in a different way.”

Chase Bonhag, CEO
FirstIgnite

“This has been a great opportunity to get behind-the-scenes insights on how to build for specific markets.”

Aleksandra Medina, Co-Founder/CEO
Fritch

“Whether you’re looking for entrepreneurship fundamentals or to scale a project, this can help your company grow.”

Andrew Hauerman, Founder/CEO
The Patient Company

Program Alumni