Expanding
Christ-Centered Entrepreneurship
A nonprofit dedicated to developing redemptive entrepreneurs by equipping early-stage,
faith-driven founders through a clear pathway of events, intentional connections,
and our small groups called The Forge.
WELCOME
A word from our founder
Wondering what Startup Garage is really about? Our founder, Jon VerLee, would love to welcome you in and share why this work matters and how we walk with founders who want their faith and what they are building to be one whole thing.
THE STARTUP GARAGE PATHWAY
Wherever you are, there’s a next step
Everything we do fits into a three-layer pathway. Each layer serves a different need and together they form a journey from curiosity to transformation.
THE LAUNCHPAD
Events
Weekly gatherings where founders first meet us and where the wider community stays connected. Fireside chats, hands-on workshops, pitch competitions, office hours, and networking opportunities.
THE TOOLKIT
Connections
The practical scaffolding founders need beyond events. 1:1 coaching with vetted volunteer coaches, a growing library of redemptive resources, curated event recommendations, and partner discounts.
THE HEART
The Forge
Small groups of 6–8 founders walking together with a vetted group leader over the long haul. This is where transformation happens and where faith and work become one whole thing.
Events build relational soil. Connections give founders practical tools.
The Forge is where founders are formed.
Our Unique Approach
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Christ-Centered
Everything we do is rooted in faith. At Startup Garage, we believe business is one of the most powerful tools for expanding God's kingdom and that the way you build matters just as much as what you build. We walk alongside founders as they develop a biblical foundation for how they lead, make decisions, and serve others through their work. This isn't a program with a faith label on it. It's a community where Christ is genuinely at the center.
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Ideation & Early Stage
Most resources are built for founders who already have traction. We build for the ones who are just getting started… the ideators, the dreamers, the people who feel called to something but don't yet know the next step. Our founders are typically pre-revenue, still shaping their idea, and figuring out what they don't know. That's exactly who we're here for. You don't need a polished pitch or a proven product to belong here. You just need a vision and a willingness to build.
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It's All Free
We believe finances should never be a barrier to joining a Christ-centered community of builders. Our founders are bootstrapping, taking leaps of faith, and stretching every dollar, and we think that's exactly the moment they need support most. That's why everything Startup Garage offers is completely free. No tuition, no membership fees, no hidden costs. Just the resources, relationships, and guidance you need to take your next step.
OUR STORY
Building Businesses that Reflect the Gospel
We exist to develop redemptive entrepreneurs — founders building businesses that don't just succeed, but heal. What started as a program at Calvin University has expanded to serve students and working professionals across West Michigan and beyond as a 501(C)3 non-profit.
We close the gap between faith and business, demonstrating that companies can be both financially viable and deeply redemptive.
"Through Startup Garage, I found a community of believers whose values, journeys, and trials didn’t just shape how I see business; they transformed how I see purpose. In their startups, failures, and perseverance, I saw what it means to walk in faith, trust in prayer, and boldly take the next step God places in front of you. It’s something no classroom could ever teach." - Macy G.
WHAT’S NEXT
Upcoming Events
Find your next step
For Founders
You have an idea, or you're already building. Step into the pathway — start with an event, request a coach, or join a Forge group near you.
Set up a virtual meeting with the Executive Director to find out how Startup Garage can support you in your entrepreneurial journey!
GET INVOLVED
For Volunteers
You've built. You've led. You want to walk with the next wave of redemptive founders. Become a volunteer coach, speaker, workshop lead, pitch judge, or apply to become a Forge group leader.
Set up a meeting with the Executive Director of Startup Garage to discover how you can use your time and talent to give back!
For Partners
Your organization wants to help expand Christ-centered entrepreneurship. Explore strategic partnership with the Startup Garage community. We rely on radical generosity from mission-aligned partners in order to keep all of our events, coaching, and small groups free for early-stage entrepreneurs. Connect with the Executive Director of Startup Garage to learn more!