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 Program

Our Emerging Talent 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

View Our Calendar of Events

  • Michigan Founders Fund Pre-Accelerator Powered by gener8tor Showcase!

    March 27 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

  • MFF Internship Program: Company Submission Deadline

    March 31

  • UnOffice Hours: Members Only

    April 1

  • Founders First Fridays

    April 4

  • MFF @ Shine On Summit 2025

    April 16 @ 4:00 pm - 7:30 pm

Featured Events

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    MFF Internship Program: Company Submission Deadline

    March 31

    Our Emerging Talent 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. MFF member companies [...]

  •

    MFF @ Shine On Summit 2025

    April 16 @ 4:00 pm - 7:30 pm

    MFF is a sponsor for the Shine On Summit 2025! Join Shine & Rise for an inspiring evening of connection and idea sharing at the Second Annual Shine On Summit. The mission of the Shine On Summit is to advance the ideas and perspectives of women and other underrepresented folks in tech, guided by [...]

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    UnOffice Hours: Members Only

    April 1

    UnOffice Hours is an ongoing, member-exclusive opportunity to get advice or mentorship from trusted members of the MFF network. MFF members can schedule a time with UnOffice Hours mentors to ask questions, connect to resources, or work through sticky challenges. MFF members can access the link to schedule through the weekly Member Insider. [...]

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    Michigan Founders Fund Pre-Accelerator Powered by gener8tor Showcase!

    March 27 @ 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

    Join us as we celebrate the conclusion of the first Michigan Founders Fund Pre-Accelerator cohort! Five founders will take the stage to share the progress their companies have made over the past seven weeks. Details on the specific time and place within Newlab are forthcoming! Register at the link to get updates on the [...]

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    Founders First Fridays

    April 4

    Register for event The first Friday of each month, founders get together to connect, share their challenges, and be resources for each other. This is a casual meetup with no set agenda, just Founders helping Founders. ​​Founders First Fridays is held in multiple cities across the state so all founders have a place to [...]