5×5 Night Takes Midwest House
Five Michigan innovators. Five minutes each. One $5,000 winner. Live at Midwest House in Austin, TX.
Start Garden is bringing 5×5 Night to Austin for a special edition at Midwest House at SXSW. This March, Michigan-based entrepreneurs will pitch their ventures in front of a live audience for a chance to win $5,000 to continue incubating their idea. Be a part of bringing Pure Michigan innovation to the Midwest House stage.
Event Date: March 12, 2026 5:00 pm
Location: Midwest House at SXSW, Austin, TX (exact address and time TBA)
This special edition of 5×5 Night is exclusively for Michigan-based businesses. All entrants must be available to attend Midwest House in Austin, TX, during SXSW and pitch in person. Remote participation is not accepted. Presenters will be chosen by a panel of judges. Public voting is not available.
5×5 Night is Michigan’s most open pitch competition, putting entrepreneurs center stage to share their big business ideas. Each month, five aspiring entrepreneurs pitch for five minutes in front of a live audience. At the end of the night, one winner receives $5,000—no equity, no strings, no payback required.
For this special Midwest House at SXSW edition, we’re showcasing Michigan innovation on a national stage. Those selected to pitch will present their ventures to an audience of entrepreneurs, investors and innovators from across the Midwest and beyond.
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