About
Centrepolis Accelerator, based in Southeast Michigan and housed at Lawrence Technological University in Southfield, accelerates the growth of advanced manufacturing and hardtech businesses through a combination of product development services, strategic funding, and deep industry expertise. Founded in 2018 (formerly known as the LTU Collaboratory), the organization targets early-stage and growth-stage companies developing physical products, hardware-enabled solutions, and innovations in cleantech, climatech, circular economy, and Industry 4.0. The accelerator's differentiated model focuses on supply chain resiliency and domestic manufacturing resilience, with particular emphasis on defense technology reshoring and advanced manufacturing capabilities. Centrepolis provides participating companies with access to in-house product designers, engineers, and prototyping facilities as cost-effective alternatives to traditional engineering firms. The organization operates multiple specialized programs including the Idea to Product (I2P) HardTech Accelerator (a 12-week hybrid program developed in partnership with the Gilbert Family Foundation for TRL 4+ founders), the Defense Hardtech Accelerator Program, Michigan Mobility Prototyping Grant Program, Industrial Decarbonization Innovation Challenge, C3 Accelerator, Industry 4.0 Accelerator, and NextCycle Michigan. The organization has demonstrated measurable impact with a reported 100 percent success rate in bringing physical products to market, and has attracted companies to relocate to Michigan to leverage its resources. Recent federal investment includes a $6 million appropriation secured to support reshoring of defense supply chains and scaling of Michigan hardtech businesses. Leadership includes CEO Dan Radomski and Chief Operating Officer Pedro Guillen. As of 2024, Centrepolis has raised approximately $11.72 million in total funding and has made investments in portfolio companies including SkySpecs, VersaWare, and Orb Aerospace. The accelerator serves both startup entrepreneurs and established small to medium-sized manufacturers seeking to commercialize hardware innovations.