Program Update (September 2025): After a highly successful pilot program, we are currently working to expand our reach and impact. We are calling upon professional ecosystem builders, workforce development leaders, startup support organizations and other stakeholders to join the conversation and help shape a more connected and resilient future for Michigan's startup ecosystem.
Launched in collaboration with the MEDC, Changing Lanes was launched in January 2025 to empower professionals navigating career transitions while accelerating the growth of Michigan’s startup ecosystem. At its core, the program strengthens both the white-collar workforce and entrepreneurial ecosystem by offering strategic talent development, founder-focused support and shared resources that drive collective growth.
As part of our mission, we aimed to guide corporate professionals from being “startup unaware” or skeptical to becoming “startup curious” and empowered to explore entrepreneurial opportunities.
Changing Lanes hosted a series of informal fireside chats featuring inspiring founders, in collaboration with SmartZone partners across Michigan. These sessions were designed to build community by fostering meaningful connections and sharing real-world entrepreneurial experiences. Whether attendees were exploring the idea of launching a startup, actively scaling a business, or simply curious about the startup world, the series provided an inviting space to learn, grow, and connect.
The series was designed to lower barriers to entrepreneurial learning by offering a casual, engaging environment where aspiring entrepreneurs and community members could gain practical insights and inspiration. By hosting the chats across various SmartZones in Michigan, the initiative highlighted the strength and accessibility of the state's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Have you ever encountered a problem at work and thought, “Someone should create a solution for this”? What if that someone is you? The Changing Lanes Vision to Venture Workshop was designed to help aspiring founders take the first steps toward transforming workplace insights into viable startup ideas. In this collaborative session, participants had the opportunity to:
This session was ideal for early-stage founders looking to validate their ideas and connect with the resources, tools, and guidance needed to bring their visions to life. It empowered professionals to view workplace challenges as entrepreneurial opportunities — and gave them a starting point to turn those opportunities into success.
Momentum was created to guide experienced professionals ready to leverage their corporate skills to help startups thrive. This thoughtfully curated program guided participants through a smooth, strategic transition into Michigan’s dynamic startup ecosystem. With a focus on real-world learning and personal growth, Momentum provided the tools, insights, and hands-on experience needed to navigate a career shift with confidence.
Over the course of three months (February–May 2025), participants engaged in a comprehensive experience that included:
Momentum served as more than just a training initiative—it became a bridge for professionals seeking purpose-driven, innovation-focused careers outside the traditional corporate path.
As part of the Momentum Career Transition Program, founders and startup teams had the opportunity to host two-week professional practicums with experienced professionals transitioning from corporate careers.
Participants were matched with startups for short-term, no-cost consulting engagements aligned with each startup’s specific project needs. Founders simply submitted a proposal outlining the scope of work, and the Momentum team facilitated the rest.
At the end of each practicum, startups had the option to extend the collaboration—through ongoing consulting or even employment opportunities—based on mutual interest and alignment.
The practicum experience offered real-world value to startups and hands-on exposure for participants, making it a win-win for both sides of Michigan’s innovation ecosystem.
During the program, a passionate group of volunteers stepped up to support participants as they navigated their career transitions into the startup world. Whether they were already working in startups or looking for ways to give back, these volunteers played a vital role in the success of the program. Volunteers contributed in meaningful ways, including:
In addition, Momentum partnered with local SmartZones, where volunteers helped mentor early-stage startups, further enriching Michigan’s entrepreneurial landscape. Thanks to this collective effort, Momentum participants were able to gain confidence, build skills, and expand their networks—while volunteers made a tangible impact on the future of innovation in the state.
