The Conquer FinTech Accelerator Opens for Application
The accelerator returned this month, opening applications to startups looking for mentorship and investment opportunities in finance, insurance, and risk management.
EAST LANSING, Mich. — The Conquer FinTech Accelerator, a partnership between Michigan State University Research Foundation and MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU), announced that it is opening applications for its fourth cohort.
The Conquer Finance and Insurance Accelerator is a highly selective 10-week program that provides mentorship, education, and industry insights for startups looking to get to their next stage in development. Only five startups are chosen to participate in each cohort, with the opportunity to engage with other founders and to receive mentorship from experts from all three supporting institutions. Selected teams will also receive investment support from MSU Research Foundation’s venture investment subsidiary, Red Cedar Ventures upon successful program completion. Last year’s cohort includes Crebit, FinGoal, SPARE., Sail, and Jupid.
“The Conquer FinTech Accelerator provided an incredible opportunity to engage directly with credit union leaders, industry experts, and fellow founders who understand the challenges of building innovative financial technology solutions,” said Simmi Sen, Crebit Co-founder. “The feedback and mentorship we received helped us sharpen our approach, validate key opportunities, and better understand how Crebit can create value for financial institutions and their members. In just 10 weeks, we gained insights and relationships that will continue to influence our growth for years to come.”
“What made Conquer unique was the ability to work alongside financial industry leaders who were genuinely invested in helping founders succeed,” said D’ontra Hughes, SPARE. Co-founder and CEO. “The program provided meaningful access to credit union executives, strategic conversations about the future of financial services, and a community of innovators pushing each other forward. Through those connections, we were able to better position SPARE.’s technology to help financial institutions expand access, improve convenience, and create stronger experiences for the communities they serve.”
“The Conquer FinTech Accelerator reflects our belief that innovation thrives when startups, industry leaders, and community partners come together to solve real-world challenges,” said Ben Maxim, MSUFCU Chief Technology Officer. “By connecting emerging fintech companies with Michigan’s financial institutions, investors, and innovation ecosystem, we are not only helping founders accelerate their growth, but also strengthening Michigan’s position as a destination for entrepreneurship and technology-driven business. We are proud to support innovators who are building the future of financial services while creating new opportunities that contribute to the economic vitality of our state.”
The Conquer FinTech Accelerator begins in January 2027 for its fourth cohort and is accepting applications starting this month. The program will follow a hybrid format, with its initial week held in East Lansing, Michigan, providing participants with access to the rich resources and networks of the region.
For more information about the Conquer FinTech Accelerator and details on how to apply, visit msufoundation.org/conquer-accelerator.
ABOUT THE MSU RESEARCH FOUNDATION
The MSU Research Foundation supports the Michigan State University ecosystem with resources that increase the impact of research and innovation. The Foundation achieves its mission through grant programs that contribute over $15 million annually to the University, entrepreneurial programming and early-stage investments that accelerate technology transfer and startup growth throughout Michigan, and environments where startup businesses and collaborators can thrive. The Foundation’s work is made possible through its stewardship of a flexible and sustainable endowment, nourished by over 50 years of licensing revenues and investment returns. Learn more about the MSU Research Foundation and its impact at msufoundation.org.
ABOUT MSUFCU
MSU Federal Credit Union (MSUFCU) was established in 1937 to provide a secure place for members to save and borrow. Guided by its mission to help members achieve financial security, reach their goals, and realize their dreams, MSUFCU supports members through key life milestones while helping plan for the future. Recognized as a leader in innovation and as a great place to work, MSUFCU continually seeks new ways to enhance the member experience and strengthen the communities it serves. Today, the Credit Union proudly serves more than 410,000 members through 36 branches in Michigan and Illinois, with over $9.3 billion in assets and more than 1,200 employees. MSUFCU is headquartered in East Lansing, Michigan. For more information, visit msufcu.org.
