The Lansing Regional SmartZone (LRSZ), managed by the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP), has proudly announced its sponsorship of the East Lansing cohort of the Conquer Accelerator Program, administered by the Michigan State University Research Foundation. The Conquer Accelerator Program offers selected teams an intensive ten-week experience focused on achieving tailored, goal-driven benchmarks to accelerate their growth and success.

The Conquer Accelerator Program stands out as a pivotal resource for startups seeking to bridge the gap in their development cycle. By providing targeted support, mentorship, and networking opportunities, the program propels new companies toward success. Throughout the ten-week program, participating teams benefit from the expertise of instructors and mentors who are experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders. These mentors, numbering over forty, share invaluable knowledge and insights, helping the startups navigate challenges and maximize their potential.

The Conquer Accelerator Program prides itself on inclusivity, inviting any qualifying business to apply, irrespective of their affiliation with Michigan State University. This approach ensures a diverse range of startups can benefit from the accelerator’s resources, fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Lansing Region.

This year’s East Lansing Cohort of the Conquer Accelerator Program includes six promising teams, four of which are local companies. This local representation highlights the program’s impact on the region’s entrepreneurial landscape. By supporting and nurturing local talent, the Conquer Accelerator Program strengthens the entrepreneurial ecosystem of the community, contributing to its economic growth.

Additionally, the Conquer Accelerator Program hosts the CADE Intern Program. All interns participating in this program are Michigan State University students, lending their diverse skill sets and knowledge to the startup teams. This collaboration bridges the gap between academia and entrepreneurship, providing students with real-world experiences and startups with fresh perspectives and energy.

The sponsorship of the East Lansing Cohort by the Lansing Regional SmartZone exemplifies their dedication to supporting innovation and entrepreneurship in the region. By partnering with the Conquer Accelerator Program, the SmartZone contributes to the cultivation of a thriving ecosystem that drives economic growth. Their support enables aspiring entrepreneurs to choose the Lansing region as a launching pad for their growth, creating a virtuous cycle of innovation and prosperity.

As the Conquer Accelerator Program kicks off, the Lansing community eagerly anticipates the progress and achievements that will emerge from this year’s cohort. With the support of the Lansing Regional SmartZone and the guidance of experienced mentors, these startups are poised to conquer new heights in their entrepreneurial journey. Learn more about the Conquer Accelerator Program here.

About the Lansing Regional SmartZone:
The LRSZ acts as a convener for all things tech entrepreneurship in the Lansing region to foster investment in and growth of the Lansing region’s high-tech economy. The SmartZone generates support dollars through tax increment financing in the cities of Lansing and East Lansing. The funding has greatly increased due to developments coming online in East Lansing, which allows for significant investment into our community through programming and grants to support local companies and attract new companies to the region.