The startup incubator 20Fathoms and global venture firm and accelerator gener8tor have launched a new accelerator program designed to support early-stage companies developing innovative solutions across the water technology sector. The Northern Michigan Bluetech Accelerator powered by gener8tor and 20Fathoms will help founders working on technologies related to water infrastructure, monitoring, treatment, data, freshwater resilience, and other solutions that can be tested, piloted, or applied in freshwater environments. Applications are open through August 9 on the gener8tor website.

Based in Traverse City, the Northern Michigan Bluetech Accelerator is a free, seven-week
program structured to support early-stage startups across Northwest Lower Michigan and
beyond to build momentum. Up to eight companies will be selected, with no equity required.
Through individualized, hands-on coaching and concierge programming, the accelerator helps
founders refine their commercialization strategies and prepare for future investment and growth
opportunities. 

The program will combine gener8tor’s nationally recognized accelerator model with 20Fathoms’
deep regional network as a key hub for entrepreneurship and innovation in Northwest Michigan.
Together, the partners aim to strengthen the region’s growing BlueTech ecosystem and support
founders building solutions connected to one of Michigan’s most important assets: freshwater.

“With our proximity to the Great Lakes and a strong local entrepreneurial support system,
Traverse City is able to offer a best-in-class experience for companies working on the cutting
edge of BlueTech,” said Erin Srebinski, Director of Entrepreneurship at 20Fathoms. “We know
firsthand how much impact these companies can have in our region, which ripples out into
Michigan and beyond. We’re thrilled to partner with gener8tor to launch the Northern Michigan
BlueTech Accelerator and invest time and resources in companies that will invest in our region.”

The accelerator will serve early-stage companies at the proof-of-concept or minimum viable
product stage. Companies do not need existing customers or revenue to apply. The program is
open to U.S.-based startups, with a particular interest in Michigan-based companies, especially
those located in Northwest Michigan or interested in building a presence in the region.

The Northern Michigan Bluetech Accelerator will include a mix of virtual programming and
in-person experiences in Traverse City starting in August, including kickoff and showcase
events. The program will culminate in a showcase where participating startups will share their
progress with mentors, investors, community leaders, and industry stakeholders.
Following the program, participating companies may be considered for potential post-program
investment through the Michigan Innovation Fund, operated by 20Fathoms to support their
long-term presence in the Traverse City region.

Startups and founders interested in applying or learning more about the program are
encouraged to visit the program website, reach out to the Program Director: Kristen Gibbs,
kristen.gibbs@gener8tor.com or schedule an office hour here. For additional information,
startups can register for an upcoming informational session about the program here.