Boot Camp ROI

The SPARK Entrepreneur Boot Camp is really something special.  We read often about ‘Boot Camps’ around the country that help entrepreneurs start their new companies.  But when we drill down to see what is offered, their format, the content, etc. we come back to the same conclusion; the SPARK Entrepreneur Boot Camp is unique.  We have been providing this Boot Camp twice a year since 2002.  181 companies have gone through the two day... [Read More...]

It’s Hard to Raise Money Today

Unfortunately there is not much new, or anything you don’t already know, about how difficult it is for a start-up to raise capital in 2009.  That makes it even scarier for a corporate executive interested in transitioning from the BIG world to the SMALL world. Our friend Jim Price over at the Ross School at U of M was interviewed for the school newsletter.  He discusses the differences between the two cultures and the paradigm shift these... [Read More...]

Presentation on state incentives and capital programs

On July 14 we will be presenting a program on the many programs funded by the state that put cash in the bank accounts of start-ups and early stage growth companies. When you look around at the incentives other states are providing technology and other innovative entrepreneurs you will be hard pressed to find one that has as many creative programs providing capital than Michigan.  We have programs for university based commercialization opportunities,... [Read More...]

SBIR Training

Having trouble raising money or finding investment?  If you are a start-up it is very hard to find capital today.  It’s not impossible and I know of companies  who have been able to close a small round of Angel investment recently, but it’s hard.  We are telling all entrepreneurs these days they need to plan on ‘boot strapping’ their growth for awhile longer.  Michigan has some great investment and incentive programs that... [Read More...]