Michigan startup wins $250K pitch contest with clean energy platform that makes remote camping sites accessible for electric vehicles

What’s happening: A Michigan startup that marries 21st century technology with the timeless act of camping has won a $250,000 investment at the PitchMI event in Traverse City late last month, securing the prize in the Clean Tech and Outdoor Innovation competition. Electric Outdoors, Inc. will compete against three additional regional winners at a statewide contest
scheduled for April 2026 as the startups vie for an additional $1 million grand prize.

Who they are: Electric Outdoors, Inc. strives to make camping more accessible, sustainable, and even glamorous by way of its innovative portable canopy system. Dubbed the EO Canopy, the off-grid glamping system can supply power, clean water, internet, and electric vehicle charging to remote camping sites.

Why it’s important: While EV owners may have been motivated by such factors as sustainability and the environment when purchasing their EVs, the lack of rural EV charging infrastructure limits their ability to enjoy the great outdoors in all its unplugged beauty. The company contends that its EO Canopy improves off-grid camping access in sustainable and
affordable ways, and especially for those with electric vehicles.

What they’re saying: “We’re beyond thrilled that our software-enabled distributed energy solutions resonated with the judges,” says Electric Outdoors founder Josef Hjelmaker. “This award means a lot and would not have been possible without the incredible group of people I get to work with every day. We work hard and take nothing for granted, so to keep earning the trust and support from the startup ecosystem in Michigan is a true honor. What makes this even more special is knowing how strong the field of competitors was. It’s so inspiring to be part of such a driven community.”

What’s next: Electric Outdoors, Inc. competed in the PitchMI event in Traverse City on Sept. 30, which featured Michigan startups with a Clean Tech and Outdoor Innovation focus. The statewide competition also crowned winners in sectors that include Healthcare and Life Sciences (BedConnect in Grand Rapids); Mobility, Defense, and Advanced Manufacturing
(General Orbit in Detroit); and AI and Software (Adrenaline Interactive in Ann Arbor). Each will compete for the $1 million grand prize in East Lansing come April 2026 at a championship event sponsored by Michigan State University Research Foundation.