1 Week Left! $2 Million in Grants to Boost Drone Innovation at LTU

Applications open until July 14 for Michigan-based startups

Lawrence Technological University (LTU) is driving new growth in drone and mobility technology with a $2 million grant program announced by its Centrepolis Accelerator. The grant program for drone innovation will support tech entrepreneurs and small businesses in Michigan working on uncrewed aerial systems (UAS), autonomous navigation, and mobility innovation.  Apply here!

“We’re trying to understand how drone usage may be beneficial for hard technology, workforce development, connectivity and more,” said Pedro Guillen, chief operations officer at LTU’s Centrepolis Accelerator.

Funding and Program Details

The initiative is supported by a $1 million Make It in Michigan Mobility Prototyping Grant from the Michigan Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, a $500,000 grant from the Michigan Office of Defense and Aerospace Innovation, and another $500,000 in additional funds.

“Drone, autonomous and next-gen mobility technologies are set to transform industries from defense and automotive to health care, construction, agriculture and beyond,” said LTU President Tarek Sobh. “Lawrence Technological University’s focus on offering an industry-immersed, technologically-eminent education – grounded in research and creative practices – make us the perfect partner to drive this initiative forward.”

Centrepolis is looking to support 20 promising startups or small businesses. Each selected business can receive up to $100,000 to advance and market new products. Support includes showcasing at major events such as the Consumer Electronics Show.

Eligible applicants must be based in Michigan, committed to developing or manufacturing locally, and working on technologies with a readiness level from 4 to 6.

Applications are due by July 14, 2025. Details and application forms are available here: Make it in Michigan Prototype Grant Program.

Supporting Emerging Technologies

Guillen and his team are already partnering with companies like Swarm Defense, which transitioned from drone light shows to producing more than 12,000 drones annually.

“We’re looking at how to diversify,” Guillen said. He sees wide-ranging potential for drones across industries such as national defense, automotive, health care, and safety.

Examples of drone applications include:

• Testing counter-UAS technologies

• Performing energy audits in construction

• Distributing blood supplies to remote hospitals

• Inspecting bridges remotely

• Transporting parts from distribution centers to dealerships

• Enhancing personal safety in high-risk settings

• Monitoring crops and water use in precision agriculture

LTU’s Unique Position

As drone technology merges with artificial intelligence, LTU aims to lead this evolving field through strong educational programs and collaborations.

“We have great programs in mechanical, electrical or software engineering as well as gaming,” Guillen said. “Drones are an opportunity-rich space. Here, we can transform the automotive space, building and manufacturing.”

About Lawrence Technological University

Founded in 1932, Lawrence Technological University in Southfield, Michigan, is one of only 13 private, comprehensive doctoral technological universities in the U.S. LTU offers more than 100 programs through its five colleges. It ranks among the top 10 percent of universities in national salary outcomes and Midwest colleges.

LTU emphasizes small class sizes, hands-on learning, and leadership development. Students participate in more than 60 student organizations and NAIA varsity sports on its 107-acre campus.

Read more:

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• Ground-Based Detect and Avoid Facilitates FAA BVLOS Waiver at Michigan Test Site
• Drones Take Science to New Heights: UAF Research at AGU24