Ann Arbor SPARK is pleased to announce a new, regional, mobility-specific Entrepreneur-in-Residence (EIR) program for companies and experienced talent in southeast Michigan. The program aims to retain executive-level talent within the ecosystem by embedding them with early-stage mobility companies to help achieve specific milestones. The program is based on Ann Arbor SPARK’s already impactful local EIR program and is funded through a partnership with the Global Epicenter for Mobility initiative.
WHAT IS AN ENTREPRENEUR-IN-RESIDENCE?
The GEM EIR program connects C-level executives who have a proven record of success with early-stage companies and emerging technology startups. The program provides essential mentorship and advice to startups as well as helps retain experienced entrepreneurial leaders in the region who want to reinvest in their communities.
The Detroit Metro region boasts a healthy regional ecosystem comprised of successful business leaders and talented idea generators in the mobility space. The GEM EIR program plays a pivotal role in helping this ecosystem thrive. Industry leaders are able to give back by aiding developing companies as they tackle the challenges of growth and development. Thus, EIR helps to meet the needs of both essential parties.
Benefits of Having a Mentor
The EIR program can help entrepreneurs build a relationship with potential mentors. Mentors are available to answer questions, give advice, offer different perspectives, help expand your network, and give you the confidence to make better decisions for your company.
Finding an entrepreneurship mentor in a new community can be tricky, which is why the GEM EIR program wants to help.
Benefits of Being a Mentor
If you’re a C-level executive with entrepreneurial experience, this program was created with you in mind. Share your experience by building a mentoring relationship with local, innovative startups, and provide expert advice to help them become successful and build capital.
By helping small startups with their business ventures, you’re making an important investment in your community.
Request Funding
Once a company and mentor are matched — either with the help of the GEM EIR program or through other avenues — please complete this form to request financial support.
Info Session
- What does an EIR engagement look like?
- What are the benefits to being/hiring an EIR?
- What are the program’s goals?
- What are the next steps to get involved?
- Hear from Gus Simiao, a current-serving EIR from Ann Arbor SPARK’s local EIR program to shed light on the role of an EIR and the impact they can have.
GEM Partners
GEM’s vision is to accelerate economic growth by building on the region’s unrivaled mobility assets. It will create a smart, secure, sustainable, and inclusive advanced-mobility industry, starting with the transition to next-generation electric, autonomous, and fully connected vehicles.
