Centrepolis Accelerator
The Centrepolis Accelerator accelerates the growth of Michigan’s advanced manufacturing and innovative hardware entrepreneurs by providing access to funding, experts, and key resources.
Services
The Centrepolis Accelerator specializes in accelerating the growth of Michigan's advanced manufacturing, innovative hardware entrepreneurs, and small manufacturers. It provides access to funding, experts, and key business and product development resources. Specific services include Design for Manufacturability (DFM) assessments in partnership with Munro & Associates, and a Supply Chain Partner Program in collaboration with IndustryStar. The Accelerator also offers a Manufacturing-Technology Virtual Incubator to guide entrepreneurs through ideation, validation, startup, commercialization, and growth.
Programs
The Centrepolis Accelerator offers several specialized programs aimed at advancing various sectors. These include the Defense Hardtech Accelerator Program, Michigan Mobility Prototyping Grant Program, Industrial Decarbonization Innovation Challenge (IDIC), C3 Accelerator, Industry 4.0 Accelerator, and NextCycle Michigan. The Michigan Mobility Prototyping Grant Program, for instance, provides up to $50,000 to promising mobility and electrification technology companies. Other notable programs include the RESTART program for energy waste reduction, the MI Climate Wise Business Program for sustainability, and the Southfield Evolution Lab and NEI Micro Makers Evolution Lab targeting underserved entrepreneurs.
Impact and Achievements
The Centrepolis Accelerator has had a substantial impact since its inception. It has commercialized over 150 products and created over 325 jobs. The Accelerator has supported over 375 companies and facilitated 351 contracts worth $46.5 million to Michigan suppliers. Overall, it has generated $80 million in revenue and investment. These figures highlight the Accelerator's significant contributions to Michigan's economy and its role in advancing innovation and manufacturing.
Facilities and Resources
The Centrepolis Accelerator boasts a state-of-the-art 6,200 square foot facility that includes additional workspace, training facilities, and a premier manufacturing technology lab. This infrastructure is designed to support various stages of product development and business growth. In addition to physical resources, the Accelerator offers technical assistance programs like the MI Climate Wise Business Program and the Manufacturing-Technology Virtual Incubator.
Partnerships
The Centrepolis Accelerator has established key partnerships to enhance its services and resources. It collaborates with Lawrence Technological University and the City of Southfield's Business & Economic Development Department. Other notable partners include Evergreen Climate Innovations, mHub, and Spark Innovation Center, all of which contribute to advancing the commercialization of climate tech and clean energy businesses. These partnerships expand the Accelerator's capabilities and reach, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship across the Greater Midwest Region.