Business Plan Sprint & Coaching Intensive Competition

One Experience – Three Phases

Applications have just opened for the Business Plan Sprint & Coaching Intensive Competition (presented by the Michigan SBDC in partnership with Ann Arbor SPARK’s Small Business Support Program), a one-week, advanced-pace experience designed for Michigan-based founders who already have a draft or completed business plan and are ready to refine it with expert coaching and compete for reimbursement grant awards (up to $10,000 total)!

WHO THIS IS FOR
Open to Michigan-based businesses only.
Preference given to businesses in Washtenaw, Livingston, and Monroe Counties.
*Ideal for founders who already have a completed or draft business plan. Applicants without a draft may apply, but the sprint format offers limited time to build a plan from scratch.

Apply here! – Best suited for serious founders ready to refine, compete, and win.
Prior participation: Applicants who have previously participated in a Small Business Support program associated with this initiative are not eligible for this competition.

PHASE 1 Business Plan Sprint
A bootcamp-style overview of what a strong business plan includes — the key sections, what judges look for, and how to make your plan stand out. Focused, practical, and built for action.

PHASE 2 Coaching Intensive
During the one-week coaching window (March 9–13), you’ll schedule at least one required 1:1 session with a coach. Get personalized feedback to refine and strengthen your plan before submission.

PHASE 3 Business Plan Competition
Submit your refined business plan for judging. Two winners will be selected to receive up to $5,000 each — up to $10,000 in total grant prizes awarded.

Key Dates:

• Application Deadline: Tuesday, March 3, 2026, by 12:00 PM (Noon) ET.
• Orientation & Sprint: Tuesday, March 10, 2026 – 5:30 – 7:30 PM
• Coaching Week: March 9 – 13, 2026

What’s Required?

• Attend the March 10 orientation session (5:30-7:30 PM): If you cannot attend, please do not apply.
• Complete at least one 1:1 coaching session (March 9-13).
• Turn in your financial plan by Sunday, March 15, 11:59 PM ET (*A minimum cumulative score of 80/100 to win).

This Is a Sprint – Come Ready!

Nicole Boyd

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