Description
Start Garden is a startup ecosystem hub and community accelerator based in Grand Rapids, Michigan that helps entrepreneurs at the earliest stages bring ideas to life. Rather than operating a traditional accelerator with uniform investment terms, it provides grant-based pitch competitions (e.g., 5×5 Night, The 100), coworking and incubator-like space, and access to mentors, investors, and ecosystem resources to support idea validation, early growth, and network development for startups and small businesses.
Eligibility
• Aspiring entrepreneurs and early-stage ventures from idea through initial validation are welcome to participate in pitch competitions and community programming.
• Programs like The 100 focus on sustainable, viable business concepts (not nonprofits or short-term projects).
• No rigid revenue, traction, or stage thresholds appear for general community engagement or early idea contests — flexibility is foundational to the model.
Process
Engage With Start Garden: Founders connect with Start Garden or attend events to enter pitch competitions, join networking, or use coworking space.
Pitch Competitions: Programs like 5×5 Night and The 100 allow entrants to present ideas — selected winners receive grant funding to progress their ventures.
Community Support: Participants gain access to mentors, ecosystem connections, workshops, maker spaces, and startup resources.
Resource Navigation: Start Garden assists founders in locating additional accelerators, capital sources, and service providers as ventures mature.
Continued Ecosystem Integration: Ongoing events and community engagement help founders refine business models and pursue next steps.
What an Applicant can Obtain
✔ Small business grant awards through pitch programs (e.g., up to $5,000 from 5×5 Night or up to ~$20,000 from The 100).
✔ Coworking, collaboration spaces, and access to resources for entrepreneurial progress.
✔ Mentoring and ecosystem connections with investors, service providers, and peers.
✔ Exposure at events like Demo Days and community showcases to grow networks.
✔ Access to maker spaces, kitchen incubators, and other local platforms depending on program participation.
