Known as a2Tech360, the series of events will showcase emerging tech startups, investment insights, and cutting-edge mobility innovations.
Ann Arbor SPARK is excited to announce that registration is now open for a2Tech360, a premier event series celebrating technology, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Now in its ninth year, a2Tech360 continues to grow, offering a dynamic lineup of events designed to connect, inspire, and engage the tech community. Produced in partnership with the Ann Arbor-Ypsilanti Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA), this year’s series runs from September 20 to September 27 and features both new and returning highlights that promise to captivate attendees.
Since its inaugural event, Tech Trek in 2015, a2Tech360 has been Ann Arbor’s premier technology-themed celebration. This annual gathering goes beyond traditional conferences and festivals, offering a 360° perspective of Ann Arbor’s regional entrepreneurship ecosystem. In 2023, more than 3,800 individuals attended events that featured panel discussions, keynote presentations, interactive workshops, pitch competitions, industry trends, and a showcase of tech advancements.
Throughout the week, a2Tech360 will feature an impressive lineup of notable speakers and industry leaders. Attendees can look forward to insights from Kathryn Snorrason, vice president and deputy chief mobility officer at the Michigan Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (OFME); Alan Amici, president and CEO of the Center for Automotive Research; Jasmine Burns, chief people officer at Censys; Christa Chambers-Pierce, founder of Entre-SLAM; Jasmit Kaur, founder and CEO of Culturebie; and many more.
Featured Events:
The Invest360 Investor Showcase kicks off the series on Friday, September 20, at the University of Michigan Golf Club House. Michigan’s investor community will gather to watch a curated group of high-growth companies compete for a $50,000 investment in each of three categories: healthcare, information technology, and mobility. The top three winners will then vie for the People’s Choice award and an additional $50,000 investment. Invest360 offers a unique opportunity to connect with investment and industry leaders.
The FastTrack Awards will take place the evening of Friday, September 20, celebrating the fastest-growing companies in the Ann Arbor region. These annual awards recognize both established and emerging companies, highlighting their achievements and the positive impact they have on the community. Known as “gazelle” companies, these high-growth businesses have achieved a 20% increase in average revenue over three years, starting from a base of at least $100,000. Thanks to our Visionary Sponsor, Rehmann.
The Ann Arbor Mobility Summit, scheduled for Monday, September 23, at Washtenaw Community College, is a high-impact event focusing on future transportation. Industry leaders will discuss innovative mobility solutions and the latest trends transforming the transportation sector. The summit will also feature a Mobility Project Showcase with contributions from Eastern Michigan University, Washtenaw Community College, and the University of Michigan. Thanks to our Trailblazer Sponsor, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Office of Future Mobility and Electrification (MEDC OFME).
Sustainability enthusiasts can look forward to the Sustainable Future Forum on Tuesday, September 24, at Venue by 4M. New to the a2Tech360 lineup, this event will feature discussions on cutting-edge solutions in sustainability and environmental innovation, with insights from green tech experts. In partnership with the City of Ann Arbor’s Office of Sustainability and Innovations, it will also celebrate the Green Business Challenge participants, honoring companies that excel in adopting green practices. Sponsored by Wacker Chemical.
That evening, Tech Talk will take place at Venue by 4M. Engaging discussions with tech leaders will revolve around the theme “Placemaking: Tech, Talent and the Evolution of Ann Arbor,” exploring how economic development and technology impacts community growth, the future of work, and the role of talent in regional development.
On Wednesday, September 25, the ever-popular Women in Tech event will be held at the Sheraton Hotel. This event features panels and workshops highlighting the role of women in tech, career advancement strategies, and overcoming industry barriers. It’s an ideal opportunity for those interested in tech careers, gender studies, and leadership to gain insights and network with successful women in the field.
The Michigan Startup Capital Summit is on Thursday, September 26, hosted at the Graduate Hotel in partnership with the University of Michigan’s Innovation Partnerships. An evolution of last year’s Michigan Angel Summit, this event delves into how startups attract funding and explores current investment trends. It offers ample networking opportunities with key players in the investment world, making it an essential event for those curious about the business and entrepreneurship landscape. Thanks to our Trailblazer Sponsor, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).
The week culminates with Tech Trek on Friday, September 27, on Liberty between Division and 5th Ave. This street-fair style event showcases the latest tech advancements and offers interactive experiences with innovative companies. Attendees can explore emerging technologies in action and meet industry leaders. New to the event this year is the inclusion of food vendors from Washtenaw Community College’s Entrepreneurship Center Start-Up Incubator Program: Marupo’s, Blue Lemon Thai, Corned Beef Queen, and Chow Hall. Thanks to our Trailblazer Sponsor, Kapnick Insurance.
In addition to these core events, a2Tech360 boasts a growing lineup of Partner Events, including the A2ZERO Green Fair, A2AC Artlab Hands-On Open House, Cahoots’ Get a Grip on Your Business, Amy Cell Talent’s Spark Your Elevator Pitch workshop, the YpsiTasty Grub Crawl, Venue Connect’s Lunch & Learn with Amy Peterson of Rebel Nell, Digital Summer Clinic’s Selling with Video & Data, the Nucleate Michigan Life Sciences Career Fair, the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum Tech Trek After Party, and more.
“a2Tech360 plays a pivotal role in connecting local tech companies with the community, fostering economic growth, and creating job opportunities. This event series highlights the ingenuity and creativity within Ann Arbor, while also serving as a catalyst for attracting and retaining top talent, ensuring our region remains vibrant and innovative,” commented Paul Krutko, President and CEO of Ann Arbor SPARK. “It also gives everyone in the region, techie and non-techie, a window into how we are capitalizing on the University of Michigan’s status as one of the leading research institutions in the world.”
To enhance the overall experience, the All Access Pass is back, offering a discounted ticket that grants access to Invest360, Michigan Startup Capital Summit, Sustainable Future Forum, Ann Arbor Mobility Summit, Women in Tech, and Tech Talk, with automatic registration for Tech Trek. Purchasers will also receive an exclusive swag box and extra drink tickets.
Ann Arbor SPARK would like to extend our gratitude to our Marquee Sponsors: University of Michigan Innovation Partnerships, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Michigan Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, DTE Foundation, Kapnick Insurance, Rehmann, MI-HQ, and Wacker Chemical.
Early bird pricing and the availability of All Access Passes end on Friday, August 23. Register now to secure your spot at these must-attend events and take advantage of the best pricing. Join us for a week of inspiration, connection, and cutting-edge technology by visiting a2tech360.com to register, view event agendas, and explore speaker bios.
Photos of past events can be viewed at a2tech360.com/2023-photo-galleries.
