About
Conquer Accelerator is a university-backed startup accelerator operated by Spartan Innovations, a subsidiary of the Michigan State University Foundation. The program was launched in 2016 and operates cohort-based programming designed to support early-stage startups through intensive mentorship, structured curriculum, and direct investor access. Selected startups receive $20,000 in initial investment capital from Red Cedar Ventures, the venture-investment subsidiary of the MSU Research Foundation, along with ten weeks of hands-on coaching, access to a network of business leaders and angel investors, and collaborative workspace. The accelerator is geographically flexible—while historically based in East Lansing, the program has expanded to operate cohorts in multiple Michigan locations including Grand Rapids, with sector-specific programming in healthcare and fintech. Conquer targets early-stage companies at the MVP or beta stage that demonstrate measurable traction, functional prototypes, revenue models, and cross-functional teams capable of relocating for the program duration. The organization operates across diverse industries including food delivery, e-commerce, wellness, social entrepreneurship, and general technology sectors. As of 2021, Conquer Accelerator had invested over $700,000 across its portfolio. The program provides founders with structured feedback loops, industry expert mentorship, and exposure to a vetted network of experienced entrepreneurs and investors positioned to support subsequent funding rounds. For investors, participation offers early-stage deal flow, portfolio diversification across emerging Michigan-based companies, and alignment with Michigan State University's entrepreneurial ecosystem.