Founder Forward
Total Incentive
$20,000
Description
Founder Forward: Michigan's Innovation Fellowship - Coming Soon! 🚀
Fueling Michigan’s Future, One Founder at a Time.
Michigan Women Forward is launching the Founder Forward program, a bold new initiative to support the next wave of Michigan’s innovation economy by investing in the people building it. Whether you're a local entrepreneur ready to scale, a high-potential founder from outside the state, or a visionary innovator returning to your Michigan roots, this program is designed to help you grow—right here in Michigan.
Founder Forward aims to drive both talent recruitment and retention by engaging early- and growth-stage founders across diverse industries. The program prioritizes those who have not yet had access to Michigan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, including underrepresented entrepreneurs, founders in emerging markets, and those seeking structured mentorship, funding networks, and meaningful ecosystem connections.
Selected participants will receive:
- Venture Relocation or Retention Grant
- 12-Month Coworking Membership at Michigan Central
- Tailored Growth Support
- Capital & Sustainability Pathways
- Civic Engagement & Mentorship Legacy
- Ecosystem Visibility
If you're building something big and looking for a place to grow, consider this your sign to build in Michigan—and build with purpose.
This program is sponsored by Michigan Women Forward with support from the Michigan Growth Office.
Special thanks to grant partners Verdigris Group, Femology, and Michigan Central.
Eligible Places
To be considered, applicants must meet the following baseline requirements:
Seed - Series A venture-capital focused startups actively building or scaling. Fundraising at least $1,000,000-$5,000,000 within 6 months.
Applicant must be part of the core leadership team of the startup, CEO preferred.
Minimum of 5 years of entrepreneurial, sector-specific, or equivalent leadership experience in innovation-focused fields.
Key growth sectors including manufacturing, mobility, healthcare, sustainability, and technology.
Either currently based in Michigan or willing to commit to Michigan residency for at least 12 months starting February 2026. Demonstrates readiness to relocate (if out-of-state) or deepen roots (if in-state) through business expansion and community engagement.
Seeks not only capital, but also ecosystem access, community impact, visibility, and long-term support.
Wait just a second while we retrieve your eligibility status for this program.
FAQ
What is MakeMyMove?
MakeMyMove is the first-ever marketplace connecting movers with relocation programs, provided by communities across the country actively recruiting new residents. We help you find the right place and get there, and we help communities grow through talent attraction.
How much does it cost?
We’re 100% supported by communities. Thanks to their investments, our service is free to folks like you who are thinking about making a move.
How can I increase my chances of being selected?
Engagement matters! These programs can fill up fast, so staying responsive throughout the process can help you secure your spot more quickly. Take the time to connect with your program manager—share what’s drawing you to the community and how you hope to get involved once you arrive. The more they understand your goals, the better they can advocate for you and shape a great experience in return.
Other Details
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How It Works
This community is participating in the MakeMyMove on-platform application process. Apply in a few minutes. You’ll receive a response to your application, and will have access to a team to help along the way.
1. Apply
Fill out our fast application form to share your information and why you’re interested in making a move.
2. Get Pre-Approved
Qualifying applicants will receive an introduction to the local sponsors of the program who will answer your questions, and help you decide if the community is the right fit.
3. Confirm Eligibility
Once you’ve been selected, we’ll confirm your eligibility for the program and facilitate a formal offer from the community.
4. Accept and Make Your Move
Accept your offer to reserve your spot in the program, and let us know when you arrive to receive the incentive.