Michigan Nonprofit Builds Support Network For Startup Founders With Focus On Philanthropy

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If you're a startup founder in Michigan, you're in luck: A new nonprofit aims to connect you with other like-minded entrepreneurs across the state, the Detroit Free Press reports.

"Our mission is pretty simple: We exist to grow the presence of diverse-led and successful high-growth ventures and advance civic leadership in Michigan's entrepreneurial ecosystem," says Trista Van Tine, executive director and co-founder of the Michigan Founders Fund.

The Ann Arbor-based nonprofit, which received federal designation as a 501(c)(3) organization in December, has more than 40 members consisting of startup founders and venture capitalists, and Van Tine says it wants to reach across the state to create a "founders-for-founders culture."

"For us to really help move Michigan forward, let's talk about Michigan being a place for tech to thrive and grow," says Erika Block, a tech entrepreneur who's now principal at Ann Arbor-based business coaching and consulting firm StickyLab.

Van Tine, who returned to the state after 14 years away, says Michigan is "at an inflection point for high-growth entrepreneurship and its long-term impact in our state."

Founders Fund plans to invest in causes including equity and inclusion, STEM education, and entrepreneurship.

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