
Who Can Apply
To be eligible, applicants must:
Own and operate a small business located in Jackson, Lenawee, or Hillsdale County.
Be legally registered with the State of Michigan (LLC, sole proprietorship with DBA and business bank account, partnership, corporation, etc.)
Fall into at least one of these categories:
SEDI-owned (socially and economically disadvantaged individuals).
Located in a rural, disadvantaged areas.
Disproportionately affected by COVID-19.
Agree to funding requirements, including submitting quotes before funds are disbursed and receipts after purchases are made.
Must be able to attend the virtual Business Finance 101 Workshop on Wednesday, January 28th, 2026 at 12-1:30pm. (This is mandatory to receive funding.)
Who Cannot Apply
Businesses are not eligible to pitch if:
You participated in the 2024 or 2025 Lean Rocket LOCAL Fellows Program.
You received a direct (milestone) grant from Lean Rocket Lab in 2024 or 2025.
You are not a legally registered business with the State of Michigan.
Your project is primarily construction-related (building, remodeling, structural work).
You do not fall into one of the required categories: SEDI-owned, rural/disadvantaged areas, or disproportionately affected by COVID-19.
If your project has been reimbursed by another MSF, MEDC or Federal Program.
If your business is a non-profit.

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