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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.
Have a project that fits into one or both tracks:
Expanding your physical presence (e.g., opening your first brick-and-mortar location, adding a second location, or growing your current space). Note: Grant dollars cannot be used for construction costs such as building, remodeling, or structural changes.
Advancing technology in your business (e.g., upgrading hardware, software, or equipment to improve efficiency, security, or customer experience).
Submit a complete application by October 5, 2025 at 11:59PM.
Be available to participate in:
A required pitch preparation workshop on October 22, 2025.
The live pitch competition on November 13, 2025.
Agree to funding requirements, including submitting quotes before funds are disbursed and receipts after purchases are made.
Who Cannot Apply
Businesses are not eligible to pitch if:
You participated in the 2024 Lean Rocket LOCAL Fellows Program.
You are currently participating in the 2025 Lean Rocket LOCAL Fellows Program.
You received a direct (milestone) grant from Lean Rocket Lab in 2024 or 2025.
You cannot attend the required pitch preparation workshop.
You cannot attend the live pitch competition on November 13, 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.