News

October 28, 2022 - 11:35 am

Introducing the 20Fathoms Vision Fund – A Philanthropic Opportunity to Support Tech Entrepreneurship

By 20Fathoms

20Fathoms is introducing a new philanthropic initiative called the 20Fathoms Vision Fund to enhance the organization’s programs and services that advance tech entrepreneurship in the Grand Traverse Region.  

As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, 20Fathoms relies on the support of our community to advance our mission. Donations will help provide services and resources for entrepreneurs and tech professionals including startup incubation programming, education, talent acquisition and development, research partnerships, shared workspace, and a community of innovators that fuel growth in Northern Michigan. 

This fundraising initiative is managed by Brittany VanderBeek, Director of Development & Community Engagement. 

Advancing equitable economic development through tech entrepreneurship 

“Entrepreneurship has been rooted in the Grand Traverse Regions since the 19th century, from lumber to fruit orchards to tourism,” said Brittany. “20Fathoms is now building the region’s next economic identity – tech entrepreneurship – which creates year-round, family-sustaining jobs for our current community members and future generations.”  

20Fathoms’ mission is to accelerate the growth of tech startups, entrepreneurs, and scalable businesses in the Grand Traverse Region. In addition, we provide education, resources, and a home for current and aspiring tech professionals.  

Hybrid Robotics is one Traverse City startup that has benefited from 20Fathoms’ services. A recent graduate of the 20Fathoms startup incubator, Hybrid Robotics designs and manufactures marine robotic solutions for research and inspections.  

“Our company wouldn’t be where we are today if it weren’t for 20Fathoms and all of the support and motivation we’ve received. We’re so grateful to be part of the Traverse City startup community!” Ryan Mater, Co-founder & Operations Manager, Hybrid Robotics 

Hybrid Robotics pose at their graduation
Members of the Hybrid Robotics leadership team (Paul Klug, Matt Goddard, and Ryan Mater) celebrate their graduation from the 20Fathoms startup incubator in 2022.

Become a 20Fathoms Visionary 

Donations of any amount are appreciated and help support our mission. However, for a limited time, donors who contribute $10,000 or more by December 31 will receive excusive benefits and hold the recognition of “20Fathoms Visionary” in perpetuity. 

“20Fathoms is a community of visionaries,” said Eric Roberts, Executive Director of 20Fathoms. “Philanthropic support is an investment in the future of tech entrepreneurship in our region. This is our home, and together we can achieve our goal.” 

To discuss this giving opportunity and other ways to give, contact Brittany at brittany@20fathoms.org

Make a Donation 

Click the button below to donate with your debit or credit card, or use your PayPal account.