Save the Date: 2026 Annual Meeting
Join us on Tuesday, May, 19 for Ann Arbor SPARK’s Annual Meeting — Washtenaw County’s largest meeting of business and community leaders.
2025 Annual Meeting
Nearly 400 business, academic, and community leaders gathered at the Eastern Michigan University Student Center for Ann Arbor SPARK’s sold-out Annual Meeting — a celebration of the organization’s 2024 accomplishments and the people and programs driving innovation across the region. A special thanks to everyone who joined us for this incredible event.
Highlights
- SPARK provided consulting and critical services to over 450 startups, supporting more than 1,000 jobs through its Entrepreneurial Services team.
- The SPARK East Innovation Center supported 38 Ypsilanti-based startups and reached 480 youth through education and career initiatives.
- The Small Business Support Hub assisted 237 small businesses, more than 60 percent of which were women- and minority-owned, and helped launch 18 new companies.
- The organization led 17 business development projects, generating over $97 million in private investment and supporting nearly 1,200 jobs.
- Through SPARK Capital and the Michigan Angel Fund, over $59 million has been invested to date, helping Michigan startups raise more than $1.5 billion in follow-on funding.
Entrepreneurial Services Company of the Year: ONL Therapeutics
Recognizing a standout startup that has leveraged SPARK’s Entrepreneurial Services to grow, attract investment, and advance breakthrough innovation. ONL Therapeutics exemplifies the kind of success we strive to nurture.
Volunteer of the Year Award: Robert Young
Recognizing outstanding volunteer service and dedication to SPARK’s mission. Robert’s leadership and time commitment have helped strengthen our programs and community partnerships.
Economic Development Champion: Mandy Grewal
Honoring a public official whose vision and collaboration have significantly advanced regional economic growth. Mandy’s steadfast leadership has been instrumental in supporting business attraction and development.
Project of the Year: University of Michigan and Los Alamos National Laboratory
Awarded for a transformative project with regional impact. This collaboration brings cutting-edge research to Ypsilanti Township, creating new jobs and advancing national scientific priorities.
Michael A. Finney Leadership Award: David Ruud
Presented in memory of SPARK’s founding CEO, this award celebrates exceptional leadership that elevates our region’s economic potential. David’s contributions reflect a deep commitment to innovation, sustainability, and inclusive prosperity.
