OUR PROGRAMS

We create ongoing opportunities for high-growth founders to engage with one another to achieve both business and community goals.

We are dedicated to empowering founders and fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem in Michigan. Our diverse range of programs is designed to connect, support, and inspire high-growth entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.

Just a few of our main programs include:

MFF Pre-Accelerator

Dive into our Pre-Accelerator powered by gener8tor, where early-stage startups receive the guidance and resources they need to take their business ideas to the next level. Participants benefit from tailored mentorship, and networking opportunities designed to refine their strategies and enhance their growth potential. Learn more about the Pre-Accelerator.

Founders First Fridays

Join us for Founders First Fridays (FFF), a monthly founder meetup held in cities across Michigan. These informal gatherings, hosted by MFF members, provide a unique opportunity for high-growth founders to connect and share experiences. FFF is the perfect setting to network and gain valuable insights in a relaxed atmosphere.

Emerging Talent Internship Program

Our Emerging Talent Internship Program opens doors for underrepresented college-aged students looking to engage with Michigan’s dynamic startup scene. This internship initiative connects ambitious individuals with high-growth startups across our network, providing hands-on experience and mentorship that cultivates the next generation of entrepreneurs. Together, we’re building a more inclusive future for Michigan’s startup community.

Michigan Tech Week

Experience Michigan’s premier startup event during Michigan Tech Week! This annual conference celebrates the state’s thriving high-growth startup ecosystem, featuring renowned speakers and industry leaders from across the country. Attendees can engage in inspiring talks, pitch competitions, and networking sessions that highlight Michigan’s innovative spirit and growth potential.

Founders Retreat

This three-day immersive experience fosters deep connections among founders, supported by professional facilitators. Through shared activities and meaningful discussions, participants bond over their entrepreneurial journeys in a beloved corner of our great state. Each retreat culminates in a commitment to support one another through bi-monthly meetings for the upcoming year, ensuring lasting relationships that extend beyond the event.

Upcoming Events

Subscribe to MFF Luma Calendar

  • Founders First Fridays

    September 5 @ 9:00 am - 10:00 am

  • Grand Rapids Tech Week

    September 15 - September 20

  • Startups at Sundown: Grand Rapids

    September 15 @ 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm

  • Bolt Conference Indy

    October 1 - October 2

  • MFFPA Cohort 3 Showcase

    November 20 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Featured Events

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    Founders First Fridays

    September 5 @ 9:00 am - 10:00 am

    It’s back September 5! High-growth, venture-backable founders, dreamers, and doers: this is your call to connect, collaborate, and thrive with a founders-for-founders community. Whether you’re scaling fast, pivoting smart, or simply craving fresh energy and insights, Founders First Fridays create an intentional and focused opportunity to engage in real conversations with fellow founders who [...]

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    Grand Rapids Tech Week

    September 15 - September 20

    Grand Rapids Tech Week As an unconference, Tech Week is participant-driven. That means that the events, discussions, demos, and showcases are led by the people who live and work in our community. This is your chance to mingle with like-minded people — from our region and across the country — face-to-face, to exchange [...]

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    Startups at Sundown: Grand Rapids

    September 15 @ 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm

    Startups at Sundown is a rooftop celebration kicking off Grand Rapids Tech Week—startup style. Created by a group of Grand Rapids-based startups, the event was born from a shared vision: to bring something fresh and founder-led to the Tech Week lineup. We wanted a space that feels real, high-energy, and centered around the people [...]

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    Bolt Conference Indy

    October 1 - October 2

    Startups, corporate innovators, and investors collide to accelerate growth and make real moves. Fast-paced, high-impact, and outcomes-focused — BOLT is where partnerships are born, and deals get done. Who should come? ​Founders Friends of MFF Investors Community members

  • MFFPA Cohort 3 Showcase

    November 20 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

    MFFPA powered by gener8tor Cohort 3 Founder Showcase Follow us on LinkedIn for RSVP info and real-time updates as the event gets closer! Who should come? ​Founders Friends of MFF Investors Community members