The Deal
Bizdom is an entrepreneurship accelerator that provides seed funding and intense mentorship to entrepreneurs looking to launch and grow innovative tech-based startups in the downtown urban cores of Detroit and Cleveland. Bizdom is a three-month program that has three accelerator sessions per year in both Detroit and Cleveland, each city launching approximately 18 companies annually.
FUNDING
Startups receive up to $25,000 in seed finding and all Bizdom benefits in exchange for 8% equity to the nonprofit Bizdom fund. We are a nonprofit organization, and will use all proceeds to fund future businesses in the cities of Detroit and Cleveland. It is a pay-it-forward model. If a team does not need initial seed funding, but would like all other benefits of joining Bizdom, that may be possible on a case-by-case basis, in exchange for 4% equity to the nonprofit Bizdom fund.
ACTIVE MENTORSHIP
After joining the accelerator, each startup will meet consistently with advisors and mentors specific to their industry and business. We have direct access and strong mentorship within the Quicken Loans Family of Companies in the following industries: Sports, Entertainment, Gaming, Real Estate, Enterprise Software, and Digital Sales/Marketing. We also have strong relationships with business leaders and experts in Michigan, and are building our national mentorship network.
VENDOR NETWORK
We connect entrepreneurs with some of the best designers, developers, marketing experts, finance experts, and law services in Michigan. These vendors are vetted for work quality and reliability, and pricing is pre-negotiated for Bizdom startups.
TRAINING + WORKSHOPS
Entrepreneurs are encouraged to attend Bizdom sponsored workshops, trainings, and classes produced by experts within the Quicken Loans Family of Companies and experienced successful entrepreneurs. Topics may include web development, business negotiations, business law, business valuation & term sheets, and online marketing tactics.
COLLABORATIVE WORKSPACE
Bizdom startups get to work in a very cool, collaborative workspace in the heart of downtown. Each team gets workspace, wireless, tech support, office supplies, and conference rooms, all within walking distance of Detroit’s best tech entrepreneurs.
TRANSITIONAL RESOURCES
Entrepreneurs moving to Detroit or Cleveland will be connected with our partner organizations to help them find and discover housing, transportation, city navigation, restaurants, nightlife, entertainment, and other parts of our growing cities.
