Ann Arbor SPARK is bringing the Michigan startup ecosystem to the global stage at SXSW 2025, co-hosting Michigan Day at Midwest House and leading a critical discussion on early-stage startup funding.
On Tuesday, March 11, Ann Arbor SPARK will co-host Michigan Day, an all-day celebration of the state’s entrepreneurial energy at Inn Cahoots & Austin Gardens (1221 E. 6th St.). As a presenting partner, SPARK will spotlight the Ann Arbor region’s innovation, investment opportunities, and startup successes, alongside fellow Michigan leaders, including the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), the City of Grand Rapids SmartZone, the University Research Corridor (URC), Newlab, and others.
A key feature of Michigan Day will be Ann Arbor SPARK’s panel discussion on startup funding, titled “Unlocking Capital for Early-Stage Startups: Strategies for Success in Michigan’s Evolving Funding Landscape.” Taking place on Tuesday, March 11 at 3:30 PM CST, this session will bring together investors and founders to explore one of the biggest hurdles for early-stage startups: securing capital in an unpredictable investment climate. Panelists will discuss the impact of the past two years’ funding challenges, emerging opportunities in 2025, and how Michigan’s unique startup ecosystem is positioning itself to help entrepreneurs thrive in a shifting market.
Moderated by Mike Flanagan, Vice President of Capital Programs at Ann Arbor SPARK, the discussion will feature insights from industry leaders:
- Crystal Brown, Founder and CEO of Circnova, an experienced entrepreneur with leadership roles in biotech, automotive, and finance, including positions at General Motors, FCA Chrysler, and Bank of America.
- Jim Tenzillo, Co-Founder of VentureNext, a venture capitalist with over a decade of experience investing in early-stage startups. He has helped companies collectively raise over $1 billion and co-launched the Michigan Outdoor Innovation Fund, a $3M early-stage fund investing in sustainability-focused outdoor technologies.
- Josef Hjelmaker, Founder and CEO of Electric Outdoors, and former Chief Innovation Officer at THOR Industries, with 24+ years of expertise in automotive, consumer electronics, and outdoor recreation innovations.
In addition to thought-provoking discussions and networking, Michigan Day attendees can grab exclusive Michigan-themed swag and connect with entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders shaping the future of technology, mobility, and venture capital.
“SXSW provides an incredible platform to showcase Michigan’s growing startup ecosystem and the investors fueling its success,” said Mike Flanagan, Vice President of Capital Programs at Ann Arbor SPARK. “Bringing Michigan founders and funders together in this setting not only strengthens connections but also highlights the unique opportunities our region offers for early-stage companies looking to scale.”
“Ann Arbor SPARK has been a longtime supporter of Midwest House, helping to spotlight the innovation and entrepreneurial strength of the region on SXSW’s huge global stage,” said Ted Velie, organizer of Midwest House. “Their presence is a great example of the Ann Arbor region’s leadership in technology, mobility, and venture investment—industries that are shaping the future of the Midwest and beyond. We’re thrilled to have SPARK back at Midwest House, continuing to amplify the bold ideas and groundbreaking companies emerging from Ann Arbor.”
Midwest House at SXSW: A Hub for Innovation
Before Michigan Day, Midwest House will activate March 7-10 at The Riley Building (315 Lavaca) in downtown Austin, transforming the space into a vibrant hub for the Midwest’s startup, creative, and investment communities. With multiple floors, a rooftop deck, and collaborations with Funded House and the inaugural Texas House, Midwest House will showcase the best of Midwestern innovation and entrepreneurship.
Last year, 4,500+ attendees from 11 states and four countries engaged with Midwest House, featuring 78 partner organizations, 89 speakers, and 24 musical acts.
For more information on Ann Arbor SPARK’s participation at SXSW and Michigan Day at Midwest House, visit annarborusa.org/events/spark-at-sxsw.
