SURGE PROGRAMMING
From concept through commercialization, SURGE membership offers programs and resources that will help entrepreneurs launch and grow successful companies.
NEW AT SURGE
CUSTOMER FUNDED STARTUP ACCELERATOR
A fast-paced, sales-first startup program built for West Michigan founders who want to validate ideas, presell offers, and build real traction — not just pitch decks. This 8-weeks program is offered in collaboration with Centered Venture Studio. Learn more and apply here.
CAPITAL READINESS PROGRAM
A focused, fundraising accelerator for early-stage startups ready to raise capital with confidence. This program is built for West Michigan Founders seeking to sharpen their pitch, strengthen financial models, and build investor relationships through hands-on mentorship and tailored content. This 10-week program is offered in collaboration with A:Lab. More details to come…
EVENTS CALENDAR
Business Coaching & Accountability Sessions Stay on the path to success with monthly goal setting, accountability, planning, and guidance in tackling critical business issues.
Member-Focused Social Gatherings Regularly scheduled Happy Hours, Idea Pitches, and member-led workshops help you connect with other community members.
Start-Up Clinics SURGE Startup Clinics are peer-to-peer monthly sessions where you will develop trusting relationships with other founders. Facilitated sessions will give you the opportunity to share experiences, discuss current challenges and keep each other accountable.
Business Accelerator Fund (BAF) The Business Accelerator Fund (BAF) is a fund available through the state designed to help high-tech startups pay for services to achieve company milestones. Qualifying startups can receive up to $75,000 towards services (incrementally).
Mentor Network SURGE mentors are a dynamic network of individuals with experience and backgrounds in various industries. SURGE start-ups can meet one-on-one with mentors to seek advice on marketing, public relations, software and application development, design, engineering, raising capital, mergers & acquisitions, business strategy, and legal matters.
Customer Discovery Program Customer Discovery is the process of defining and validating core business assumptions based on customer needs. Speaking directly to your potential customers is an important first step to prove that you:
• Have correctly identified your target market
• Are solving a real pain point for your customer
• Have a unique value proposition.
• Will have a viable business.This self-guided program will give you a step-by-step framework to help you launch a business that resonates with your customers and better positions you for success. You will have access to SURGE mentors who will provide feedback and accountability throughout your journey.
SURGE Credits + Discounted Services Get assistance in marketing, legal, engineering consulting and more! SURGE may contribute up to $2500 in SURGE Credits to qualifying projects.
SURGE Academy The SURGE Academy is an on-demand series of programming that gives SURGE entrepreneurs direct access to content, tools, templates, and resources to help grow their business. The academy will help your startup move from concept phase through commercialization. As you work through the content, you will connect with coaches and mentors for more support and accountability. Including the Customer Discovery Program and Business Basics, Marketing & More!
From launch to acquiring customers, the SURGE Academy offers carefully selected articles, invaluable resources, and real-world insights shared by experienced SURGE entrepreneurs.
Ready to launch? We are currently at membership capacity, but always excited to connect. Reach out to Nora VandenBrink if you are interested in learning more.