The Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at Michigan State University, established through the generosity of Spartan alum Bob Burgess and his family, is a nationally recognized leader in entrepreneurship education. Built on the belief that the same skills that make for successful entrepreneurs also make for successful humans, the Institute takes an education-first approach to helping students lead lives of impact. We equip Spartans with the entrepreneurial mindset, real-world experience, and the community they need to create meaningful change. Learn more at eship.msu.edu.
External link for Michigan State University – Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation
325 E Grand River Ave
Suite 355
East Lansing, Michigan 48823, US
651 N Shaw Ln
M025
East Lansing, Michigan 48824, US
49 Abbot Rd
East Lansing, Michigan 48824, US
A proud moment for Michigan State University’s entrepreneurial ecosystem! 💚🦈 Ahead of their upcoming appearance on Shark Tank ABC, we’re celebrating the BRCĒ team and this incredible milestone. More to come this week!
5 DAYS TO GO!! We’ll see you in the Tank.🦈 Shark Tank ABC
Abram Gingrass is building Voltz to redefine the way we hydrate. Designed as an electrolyte and multivitamin oral lip pouch, Voltz delivers efficient, on-the-go hydration and essential nutrients, eliminating the need for traditional drinks. Abram Gingrass, a student at the Michigan State University - Eli Broad College of Business, has been selected as one of 15 semifinalists in the 2026 Burgess New Venture Challenge, Michigan State University's premier pitch competition on April 9 at the Marriott East Lansing. -- 🎥 Produced by McGraw Multimedia
Kaleah-Aleizr is building LZR to streamline the way we fuel performance. Designed as a functional beverage that combines natural ingredients, high-quality protein, and caffeine, LZR delivers sustained energy and metabolic support, eliminating the need for multiple drinks. Kaleah-Aleizr, a Michigan State University College of Communication Arts and Sciences student has been selected as one of 15 semifinalists in the 2026 Burgess New Venture Challenge, Michigan State University's premier pitch competition on April 9 at the Marrriott East Lansing. -- 🎥 Produced by McGraw Multimedia
Congratulations BRCĒ! A huge milestone! 💚
THE NEWS IS OUT!!!🚨🦈 On March 4 at 10PM ET, BRCĒ will be featured on Shark Tank ABC!! This moment represents years of hustle and the relentless work of our team and supporters who helped us build this from the ground up and #NEVERQUIT. What started as a classroom idea is now stepping onto THE BIGGEST STAGE in entrepreneurship.🦈🎉 Grateful for everyone who’s been part of the journey. Tune in March 4, 10PM ET on ABC. EMBRACE THE LACE!!! * A special appearance from a 🦄
Jillian Whitley, founder of J. Margaret ® is redefining everyday luxury with gold-filled pieces designed to last. Inspired by her mom and grandmother’s love of jewelry, Jillian wanted to create pieces full of meaning, but also quality. Now, she’s taking her brand to the 2026 Burgess New Venture Challenge, Michigan State University's premier pitch competition, as one of this year's 15 semifinalists. Join us on April 9 at the Marriott East Lansing to watch the Challenge live. -- 🎥 Produced by McGraw Multimedia
Congratulations J. Margaret ®! An incredible accomplishment. Go Green💚
This past Tuesday, I competed in the WomanUp Pitch Competition with Michigan Women Forward and was honored to be named second place in the Mid-Michigan Start-Up Division. It was an incredible experience surrounded by so many inspiring entrepreneurs across the state. The $5,000 award will help accelerate J. Margaret ® by supporting manufacturing costs, expanding into the wholesale market, and increasing marketing and promotion efforts. Thank you to Michigan Women Forward for hosting such a meaningful competition, and to my mentor, Karen Brittner, for her incredible guidance and support. Congratulations as well to all of the Mid-Michigan finalists: Meghan Chipman, Darla Bishop, DrPH, Osha Humphrey, Louise Montag, Jillian Braman, Jen Braman, Tiffany Neuman, Amy Nielander, and Tionna Parker.
15 student-led startups have advanced as semifinalists in Michigan State University's premier pitch competition, Burgess New Venture Challenge. These teams represent seven colleges across campus including Michigan State University - Eli Broad College of Business, Michigan State University College of Engineering, Michigan State University College of Communication Arts and Sciences, College of Social Science at Michigan State University, Lyman Briggs College-Michigan State University, and Michigan State University College of Natural Science, proving that entrepreneurship at MSU isn’t limited to one major or one mindset. The Challenge takes place on Thursday, April 9 at the Marriott East Lansing at University Place in downtown East Lansing, where the top five teams will compete for a share of $50,000 in funding. To meet this year's semifinalist teams, visit:
Last weekend, the Burgess Institute had the honor of hosting the SCALE conference in partnership with Student-Made Store at Michigan State University — welcoming more than 100 student entrepreneurs from across the country to East Lansing. Throughout the weekend, students engaged in thoughtful conversations, shared lessons learned, built new connections, and explored what it truly means to scale an idea while still in college. From student creators designing event merchandise to alumni leaders joining panels and investing back into the community, SCALE showcased the power of a national network rooted in collaboration and momentum. Thank you to Student-Made Store, Lindsay Reeth, Ryan McElhinney and all of the speakers, creators, and attendees who made the weekend impactful.
Michigan State University – Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation reposted this
Today we honor the memory of MSU students Arielle Anderson, Brian Fraser and Alexandria Verner as well as all affected by the tragedy that occurred on our campus three years ago. As we join in remembrance, it is important to recognize and accept what you are feeling. Take care, Spartans. 💚
Michigan State University – Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation reposted this
The Burgess New Venture Challenge returns during 517 Entrepreneurship and Innovation Week as Michigan State University’s premier pitch competition for student entrepreneurs. The Challenge supports early stage venturers through mentoring, guidance, connections to Michigan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, and opportunities for more than $50,000 in investment. At its core, Burgess New Venture Challenge is a powerful learning experience that gives undergraduate and graduate students the chance to bring bold ideas and innovative solutions to a large audience. Learn more about this event and register at https://hubs.la/Q0403KmX0.