Unleashed Potential
We open the cages and let the entrepreneurs out to share ideas, resources, and connect with investors, community leaders, and thought leaders.
Community
Education
Investing
Development
Our Mission
Bring external resources to local founders
Provide best in class business education
Remove barriers to capital
We look forward to strengthening relationships with small business and startup ecosystems in West Michigan to create dynamic support and community across county lines.
Years Active
Community
Equity-Free Investment Fund
Since 2012
Startup Zoo was cofounded by Ryan Goins and Carl Brown, with a group of enthusiastic tech entrepreneurs who are trying to grow in Michigan and make new technology a growing community in Kalamazoo. The organization has developed what is today’s fastest growing startups and businesses in Kalamazoo. Many entrepreneurs have found their inspiration to start new ideas and encouragement to pursue avenues outside of entrepreneurship.
Re-launch, re-vision and re-engaging Kalamazoo’s entrepreneurship community
Startup Zoo is focused on bringing national brands and capital relationships to Kalamazoo County to support business owners and startups. As a hub for the Kalamazoo entrepreneurship community, we work with other business support programs to streamline efforts, resources, and impact. We have a vision of attracting and retaining high-growth startups, creating new jobs, and providing access to equity-free capital.
Meet our team
Carl Brown
Executive Director
Sydney Davis
Residency Program Partner
Jasmine Childress
Community Manager
Kelvis Junior Quaynor
Community Engagement Specialist