Michigan Growth Office Announces Pitch Haus, a Grant Competition for Creatives

The Michigan Growth Office, in partnership with Creative Place Consulting and Studio M Detroit, announced applications officially opened today for Pitch Haus, a pilot program that will award four $25,000 grants to Michigan creatives. The grant funding will be used to host and activate Pitch Haus, a mobile multi-functional art activation that will act as a blank canvas for recipients to amplify their work in their communities. Applications are due Wednesday, Nov. 5 at 11:59 p.m. ET.  

Through the competition element, Pitch Haus will invest in creators from different corners of our state, while highlighting the importance of talent retention and community growth to Michigan’s economic future. Pitch Haus serves as a catalyst for additional impact in support of critical creative industries as well as important population growth efforts statewide.

"We are excited about the opportunity for Michigan’s creative sector to shine. Pitch Haus celebrates artists, makers and entrepreneurs, building on the incredible creative work already happening across the state,” said Alison Watson, director of the Michigan Arts and Culture Council. “This initiative powerfully highlights how creativity continues to drive Michigan forward."

Pitch Haus is available to culture makers based in Michigan including artists, businesses or nonprofit organizations. Collaborations are also welcome. It will travel between the communities selected for the four grants between Jan. 1 and Sept. 30, 2026.

"Investing in Michigan's culture makers is an investment in the identity and future of our state. These change agents have been making our communities destinations for creativity, expression and innovation for years,” said Michael Forsyth, principal of Creative Place Consulting. “They're the ones who make Michigan cool, they're the ones who give our cities soul, they're the ones making Michigan a magnet for talent, tourism and entrepreneurship. We hope these grants will help amplify the great work already taking place within our creative community and help make the case for additional investment in arts and culture in the future.”

Three virtual information sessions will be held for applicants to learn more and ask questions. They are scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 22 at 3 p.m., Monday, Oct. 27 at 6 p.m. and Thursday, Oct. 30 at 4 p.m.

Visit the Pitch Haus website to learn more, register for an information session and apply: www.makeshiftmichigan.com

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter.