MOMENTUM Pre-Accelerator

MOMENTUM, powered by the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Michigan State University, is a competitive six-week summer pre-accelerator that advances Spartan startups forward.

Through hands-on coaching, founder-led sessions, site visits, and real-world feedback, the program combines a $5,000 infusion of capital, industry-specific mentorship, and an intensive growth curriculum focused on validation, traction, and venture readiness. MOMENTUM helps participants develop the skills and mindset needed to take their ventures to the next stage, and prepares Spartans to confidently pursue more intensive accelerators, investment opportunities and continued venture growth with clarity, confidence and momentum.

Applications to the 2026 MOMENTUM are open until February 16, 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

Applications for the 2026 MOMENTUM are due Monday, February 16, 2026, at 11:59 PM. To apply, visit: https://bit.ly/MOMENTUM26-application. Once an application is submitted, no changes can be made.

MOMENTUM is open to current students at Michigan State University who are active participants in the Burgess Institute’s Venture Creation Program (Discovery or Launch) and building a startup or venture. Applicants must be able to fully commit to the six-week, in-person summer program, including required events and program-related travel, which may include shared lodging.

MOMENTUM is a fast-paced, six-week, in-person summer program with multiple required touchpoints each week, including workshops, mentorship sessions, site visits, and experiential learning.

Participants receive a $5,000 infusion of capital, industry-specific mentorship, and access to an intensive, hands-on growth curriculum focused on validation, traction, and venture readiness.