Conquer EdTech Accelerator, powered by Michigan Virtual
Michigan Virtual is proud to power the Conquer EdTech Accelerator, a premier 10-week intensive program designed to support early-stage education technology startups. In partnership with the Michigan State University Research Foundation, this accelerator equips entrepreneurs with the funding, mentorship, and strategic guidance needed to bring transformative EdTech solutions to life.
Applications closed August 1, 2025
Conquer EdTech Accelerator Pitch Showcase
Join us at Michigan Virtual’s new Innovation Design Studio for the final showcase of the 2025 Conquer EdTech Accelerator, presented with the MSU Research Foundations and the Future of Learning Council.
Hear five teams present their final pitches as they share innovative solutions to real challenges in teaching and learning. Connect with others shaping the future of education and offer your feedback on their ideas.
Date: Wednesday, November 19, 2025
Location: Michigan Virtual Innovation Design Studio, Lansing, MI
Audience: Friends of Michigan Virtual, the MSU Research Foundations, and the Future of Learning Council
Learn more about the partnership behind the Conquer EdTech Accelerator
Michigan Virtual and the MSU Research Foundation have come together to launch a new program supporting early-stage education technology startups.
Read the press release to explore the vision behind the Conquer EdTech Accelerator and how it’s designed to fuel innovation in the EdTech space.
What is the Conquer EdTech Accelerator?
The Conquer EdTech Accelerator is a hands-on, immersive experience designed to bridge the gap between innovative ideas and scalable businesses in the education technology sector. Participants will receive:
- Up to $20,000 in milestone-based funding from Red Cedar Ventures
- One-on-one mentorship from industry experts
- Business training on product development, market strategy, and more
- Access to workspace and resources at Michigan Virtual
- Opportunities to connect with investors and EdTech leaders
The accelerator supports entrepreneurs as they navigate company formation, intellectual property management, customer discovery, financial forecasting, and pitch development.
Program structure
- Application period: June 23 - August 1, 2025
- Program duration: September 15 - November 21, 2025
- Location: Hybrid—weekly in-person sessions at Michigan Virtual and virtual programming throughout.
Selected teams will engage in intensive seminars, mentorship, and hands-on business development—culminating in a final showcase for investors and industry leaders.
Who should apply?
The accelerator is open to early-stage EdTech startups that:
- Are registered U.S. for-profit companies (LLC, C-Corp, or S-Corp)
- Have a groundbreaking technology or service that addresses an unmet need in education
- Are seeking mentorship, funding, and structured business support
- Are committed to growing their impact in the K-12 or higher education space
Up to five teams will be selected, with at least one spot reserved for:
- Michigan-based companies
- K-12 educators turned entrepreneurs
- MSU faculty, staff, students, or alumni
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