MSU Research Foundation and Michigan Virtual Launch New Conquer EdTech Accelerator
The 10-week program will support early-stage startups developing K-12, secondary, and workforce development technologies with funding, training, and mentorship.
EAST LANSING, Mich. (Jun. 24, 2025) — The MSU Research Foundation and Michigan Virtual have announced a strategic partnership to launch the Conquer EdTech Accelerator powered by Michigan Virtual, a 10-week intensive program designed to support early-stage education technology startups.
Launching in Fall 2025, the Conquer EdTech Accelerator fills a critical gap in the development cycle for education-focused ventures. The program provides hands-on business training, mentorship, and milestone-based investment to help entrepreneurs turn promising ideas into scalable solutions for K-12, secondary, and workforce development education. Applications open July 24, 2025.
“Michigan has a strong foundation in both education and innovation, and this accelerator will connect promising edtech startups with the resources, expertise, and support needed to drive meaningful impact in classrooms,” said Jamey FItzpatrick, President and CEO at Michigan Virtual. “Through this partnership with MSU Research Foundation, we’re advancing solutions that impact teaching and learning, while strengthening Michigan’s position as a leader in educational technology and supporting the next generation of EdTech entrepreneurs.”
Participating startups will receive up to $20,000 in milestone-based investment, along with expert-led training in areas such as business formation, customer discovery, market analysis, intellectual property management, regulatory considerations, and federal grant opportunities. Teams will also benefit from one-on-one mentorship, workspace, and access to a network of industry experts and investors.
“The Conquer Accelerator program has a proven track record of supporting high-growth startups, and expanding into the EdTech sector is a natural next step,” said Tom Stewart, Director of Venture Programming at the MSU Research Foundation. “By combining Michigan Virtual’s expertise in K-12 education with our experience supporting early-stage ventures, we’re building a program that will drive real impact.”
The Conquer EdTech Accelerator is open to early-stage companies across the U.S. developing K–12, secondary, and workforce development education technology solutions. Preference is given to teams with a minimum viable product (MVP) or beta version and early signs of traction. For details and to apply, visit msufoundation.org/conquer-accelerator.