Our Mission

The NEF mission is to link entrepreneurs with management expertise, joint venture partners, business services, capital, and other critical resources. We are comprised of business professionals with a passion around helping entrepreneurs succeed.

The Program Committee is our coaching pool of professional expertise. Coaching teams are created from this group where the entrepreneur experiences our team-based presentation process through individualized and custom coaching. They are mentored by a NEF board member who keeps the team on track in coaching the entrepreneur to prepare a winning "pitch" culminating in a showcase presentation at a forum meeting. Coaches learn from one another and become experienced business coaches. It is a win win benefit!

The NEF Vision

• Be the recognized resource in Michigan for preparing entrepreneurs to effectively communicate with potential investors and for coaching entrepreneurs through preparation and practice of investor pitches
• Provide services to all regional, technology-focused startup companies ready to seek an equity investment
• Function as a collaborative, cooperative, and diverse body within the entrepreneurial community where constructive and respectful communication and critique is both sought and acknowledged
• Achieve a sustainable funding base from multiple sources for covering annual budgeted expenses for NEF programs and marketing

Is NEF For You?

NEF is for anyone interested in entrepreneurialism.

Entrepreneurs: If you are an entrepreneur seeking capital and feedback on your business opportunity, we have a coaching process that will train you to effectively communicate with investors. You will also be able to network with other entrepreneurs, resources, and mentors.

Stakeholders & Service Providers: If you are a stakeholder or service provider, we offer opportunities to grow your network with like-minded professionals and increase your business. Participating on coaching teams is a great way to experience our many benefits.

Investors: If you are an investor, we work with entrepreneurs you will want to get to know.

The NEF 33-year Book

During the past 33 years, NEF has coached over 400 companies. Read the story of how we got started and what’s happened including a year by year summary of companies coached, awards given, and rosters of NEF Board members. Click the NEF 33-Year Book link for a downloadable PDF file of our history of coaching, perfecting, and connecting.

The NEF 33-year Book