Ann Arbor SPARK was recognized with the Community Impact Award at the 2025 Michigan Venture Capital Association (MVCA) Annual Awards Celebration, held on October 9th at Elevate at One Campus Martius in Detroit. The honor highlights SPARK’s long-standing role in fostering collaboration and driving growth across Michigan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“This recognition from MVCA is deeply meaningful because it reflects the collective strength of Michigan’s innovation community,” said Paul Krutko, president and CEO of Ann Arbor SPARK. “Our work is rooted in partnership—between entrepreneurs, investors, academic institutions, and local governments. Together, we’re building a thriving economy where ideas can take root and businesses can scale.”
The Community Impact Award celebrates organizations, individuals, or events that create meaningful connections to grow Michigan’s entrepreneurial economy. Ann Arbor SPARK was recognized for its efforts to unite startups, investors, educators, and civic leaders, and for providing the programs and capital resources that help companies launch and thrive.
Ann Arbor SPARK is Michigan’s leading SmartZone, supporting startups and growth-stage companies through access to capital, mentorship, workspace, and strategic consulting. Since 2007, SPARK Capital has invested more than $34.4 million in over 200 companies, while the Michigan Angel Fund has invested $25 million in more than 40 companies. In total, SPARK has assisted over 1,300 startups and led more than 600 growth projects, generating $3 billion in investment and creating tens of thousands of jobs across Southeast Michigan.
The 2025 MVCA Annual Awards Celebration drew more than 250 attendees from across the state, honoring exceptional entrepreneurs, investors, and organizations shaping Michigan’s innovation economy. Award winners were selected by MVCA members and include:
- Mike Blue (HistoSonics) – Entrepreneur of the Year
- CircNova – Up-and-Coming Company of the Year
- Michigan Innovation Fund – Capital Event of the Year (Venture Capital Fund)
- ONL Therapeutics – Capital Event of the Year (Portfolio Company)
- Ambiq – Exit of the Year
- HistoSonics – Mega Deal of the Year
“Ann Arbor SPARK exemplifies what it means to create meaningful impact through collaboration. Their work has not only helped entrepreneurs succeed but has elevated the entire Michigan innovation ecosystem. MVCA is proud to recognize their leadership and dedication,” said Ara Topouzian, Executive Director, Michigan Venture Capital Association.
The MVCA also inducted Jim Adox, executive managing director of Venture Investors Health Fund in Ann Arbor, into its Hall of Fame for his 25-year leadership in advancing Michigan’s venture capital and life sciences sectors.
For more information about Ann Arbor SPARK and its programs, visit annarborusa.org.
