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Aqua

Entrepreneur
Program

Michigan 2026

Commercializing BlueTech Innovation  

 

AquaEntrepreneur Michigan is a commercialization program dedicated to propelling water technology companies and advancing the objectives of the Michigan Maritime Strategy, driving job creation, talent attraction, and investment in Michigan's maritime economy.

 

The program connects water tech scale-ups to pilot opportunities, expert coaches, and commercialization support — helping proven technologies validate in real-world conditions, secure customers and partners, and accelerate impact.

AquaEntrepreneur logo Michigan 2026

AquaAction is expanding its roots in Michigan since it first ran a start-up Challenge in 2023. From that Challenge, four of the companies launched have gone on to create 21 jobs in Michigan, with over $4 million in investment secured and 12 pilot projects underway. The new AquaEntrepreneur Michigan Program aims to far surpass this impact.  

Michigan's Four Maritime Priorities


AquaEntrepreneur Michigan is anchored in the Michigan Maritime Strategy's four priority objectives, with every participating company advancing at least one. 

Economic Development

Supporting economic development by modernizing maritime infrastructure, improving intermodal transportation connectivity, leveraging manufacturing capabilities, and strengthening supply chain resilience.

Maritime Research & Development 

Investing in maritime research, innovation, education, and workforce development. 

Clean Energy Transition 

Accelerating the maritime sector's transition to clean energy. 

Infrastructure Resilience 

Enhancing the sustainability, resilience, and revitalization of Michigan's ports, harbors, and waterfront communities. 

If you are an entrepreneur with an innovative solution that directly or indirectly addresses water-related issues advancing the Michigan Maritime Strategy's priority objectives, AquaEntrepreneur Michigan is for you.

A Maritime Innovation Hub

Home to 38 active ports and supporting a commercial maritime sector worth billions of dollars and thousands of jobs, Michigan is strategically positioned to solidify its role as a water‑innovation hub.

In 2026, the state launched the Michigan Maritime Strategy, a 10-year roadmap to grow the state's maritime economy by driving economic development, attracting investment, fostering innovation, and creating high-quality career opportunities.

Drawing from these priorities, AquaEntrepreneur Michigan provides the commercialization support that water technology companies need to scale into new markets and land new contracts. As these businesses scale, they propel Michigan's maritime economy, attracting the capital and minds needed to deliver lasting environmental and economic impact.

Why join AquaEntrepreneur Michigan?

Backed by four years of proven results generating over 550 pilots and contracts, and more than $200 million in cumulative annual revenue for participating companies in the Great Lakes & St. Lawrence region, AquaEntrepreneur is a proven model for water tech commercialization. With tailored support to propel your company's growth and impact, this program is your springboard to commercial success.

Receive an initial assessment to identify your company's specific needs. 

Gain access to personalized coaching with leading experts. 
Secure pilots and/or contracts with potential customers, technology adopters, and AquaAction's ecosystem of partners and businesses. 
Participate in strategic events and networking opportunities. 

* For more information on the impact of past editions of the AquaEntrepreneur Program, visit the AquaEntrepreneur home page

Who Can Apply?

AquaEntrepreneur Michigan is currently open to: 

 

  • Companies developing innovative solutions that directly or indirectly tackle water challenges.
  • Technologies at TRL 6+, ready for real-world deployment with strong growth potential.
  •  Scale-ready businesses — either established companies seeking growth or promising startups with proven business models.
  • Companies whose projects advance one or more of the Michigan Maritime Strategy's priority objectives.
AquaEntrepreneur Michigan

If you are an entrepreneur with an innovative solution that directly or indirectly addresses water-related issues advancing the Michigan Maritime Strategy's priority objectives, AquaEntrepreneur Michigan is for you.

In collaboration with

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Major Partners

 
Established by
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Accelerated by
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Strategic Partners

Thanks to these partnerships, participating companies have access to pilot projects and early-tech adopters, allowing them to test, validate, and demonstrate the performance of their solutions in municipal and industrial environments.

 

If you would like to explore partnership opportunities

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Testimonials and Stories

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Water at the Root: Revolutionizing Agriculture at Planteva Farms

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Empowering Water Innovation in Flint, Michigan 

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Bridging the Gap: Connecting Innovators with Municipal Leaders