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The Research Institution GAP Fund and Accelerator Program Summit

[COA Member] Wayne State University TechTown Business Incubator Program to Get Grant Extension

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October 16-17, 2025 / Seattle, WA

The annual summit for research institution gap fund and accelerator programs, including proof of concept programs, startup accelerators, and university venture funds

The Story

Grant funding is being extended for a program in Detroit that supports a business startup accelerator for students.

TechTown’s Detroit Technology Exchange Business Incubator will receive a $250,000 extension. The funding is part of more than $1.7 million in extensions approved by the Michigan Strategic Fund.

The TechTown program also supports an entrepreneur-in-residence placement program and integrated ecosystem services.

Automation Alley’s 7Cs program will get $500,000 in extensions. The program is aimed at accelerating the growth of small businesses and startups across Michigan, with a specific emphasis on advanced manufacturing startups.

The rest will go to the Gatekeeper Business Incubator grant for Lawrence Technological University and the 2015 and 2016 Business Incubator Gatekeeper grants for a number of SmartZones across the state.

Source: TechTown Business Incubator Program to Get Grant Extension | Michigan News | US News

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  • Proof of concept programs

  • Startup accelerators

  • University venture funds

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