Scale-Up! Sessions

Apr. 30, 2025
SBIR/STTR FUNDING OVERVIEW

Learn how the SBIR and STTR programs can help fund early-stage R&D, providing non-dilutive capital to support your innovative idea through proof of concept. Understand the key differences between the programs, eligibility requirements, participating agencies, and common misconceptions to help determine if these federal opportunities are right for your startup.

PRESENTER: Andrea Johanson, PhD (BBCetc)

---

May 28, 2025
BUILDING NEXT-GEN TECHNOLOGY PIPELINES

Learn how to build a next-stage development roadmap for your existing technology. This session will explore strategies for integrating complementary capabilities, increasing technical differentiation, and positioning your innovation for long-term success.

PRESENTER: Frank Urban (MSU Research Foundation)

---

Jun. 25, 2025
CRAFTING A COMPELLING PITCH DECK

PRESENTER: Kim Gamez (MSU Research Foundation)

---

Jul. 30, 2025
A PRACTICAL GUIDE TO CUSOMER DISCOVERY

PRESENTER: Brad Fingland (MSU Research Foundation)

---

Aug. 27, 2025
FUNDRAISING STRATEGIES FOR EARLY-STAGE STARTUPS

Learn how to communicate with investors and position your startup for early fundraising success. This session covers how to craft a compelling story around your team, product, and business model, why bold ideas often get funded, and common pitfalls to avoid. You’ll also explore strategies for raising a pre-seed round and why Michigan is a great place to do it.

PRESENTER: John Tran (MSU Research Foundation)

---

Sept. 24, 2025
TBD

PRESENTER: (CFO Group)

---

Scale-Up! Sessions is a monthly series for startup and growth companies covering key topics like branding, customer discovery, fundraising, marketing, and more, hosted by the MSU Research Foundation. Sessions are a mix of formats, from hands-on workshops and presentations to casual networking events. Whether you're refining your pitch deck, learning about SBIR/STTR grants, or exploring sales strategies, these sessions offer practical tools and insights to help your business scale.

Mark your calendar and join us at Newlab @ Michigan Central in Detroit!

________________________________________________________

ORGANIZER:

The MSU Research Foundation supports the Michigan State University ecosystem with resources that increase the impact of research and innovation. The Foundation achieves its mission through grant programs that contribute over $15 million annually to the University, entrepreneurial programming and early-stage investments that accelerate technology transfer and startup growth throughout Michigan, and environments where startup businesses and collaborators can thrive. The Foundation's work is made possible through its stewardship of a flexible and sustainable endowment, nourished by over 50 years of licensing revenues and investment returns. Learn more about the MSU Research Foundation and its impact at msufoundation.org