You provide the innovation, we provide the support.
We are a city built on innovation, from furniture to medicine. How can we help you innovate the next breakthrough?
A proud partner of Startgarden and the MSU Research Foundation
Welcome to the Grand Rapids SmartZone
The Grand Rapids SmartZone is a program designed to help entrepreneurs move ideas from concept to market. It’s part of a statewide initiative to support technology-based businesses, and it operates within the Grand Rapids city limits. Through the SmartZone, you can access funding opportunities, work with experienced mentors, and find partnerships or low-cost office space in collaborative workspaces for eligible companies. We are making it easier for innovative businesses to start, stay, and succeed in Grand Rapids.
Mentorship and Entrepreneur Support
Work alongside and be mentored by experienced founders and business leaders who understand the realities of starting and growing a company. The SmartZone offers one-on-one coaching, startup accelerators, and programming designed to help you start and scale your innovation.
Workspaces
Get access to startup office space and innovation centers like Start Garden and The Bridge, along with flexible spaces for collaboration. These resources make it easier to develop, refine, and scale your work.
Funding Opportunities
Tap into local and statewide funding, from small idea-stage grants to larger pitch awards and accelerator program support. The goal is to connect your vision with the capital and guidance needed to grow.
Start Garden 100
A community-wide program that gives 100 people each year the chance to try out a new idea with $1,000 in no-strings-attached funding. You heard that right, $1,000 in no-strings-attached funding. Then they have about two months to see if it can grow from an idea into a viable business or project, then pitch at Demo Day for the chance at another $20,000 to keep building.
Accelerate Equity
A year-long cohort-based program for entrepreneurs of color that shines a light on systems that limit growth and gives tools and tips to break through those barriers. Participants in the program get to work with mentors, connect with a network of CEOs and investors, and join a community focused on building stronger businesses.
Conquer Accelerator & C.A.P.
A ten-week intensive Accelerator Program where founders work toward tailored, goal-driven benchmarks with support from instructors and mentors. The program hits on topics like fundraising, technology, and building long-term success.
Entrepreneur in Residence
A program that pairs an entrepreneur with seasoned professionals who have built, scaled, and sold companies. Residents give direct guidance to develop their business plans, navigate funding options, and take their startups to market. Along the way, they gain practical insight into decision-making, growth strategies, and building a strong foundation for long-term success.
Featured Programs
Have an idea or a startup and not sure where to start?
Talk with a SmartZone navigator who can walk you through every program, space, and funding option we offer—and help you find the best fit for your goals.