SPARK.ed | AI Best Practices

Early-stage companies face a wide range of unique legal challenges. While generative AI may seem like the ideal solution—offering speed, convenience, and lower costs—it can also create hidden risks that complicate rather than solve legal issues.

Join Matt Bower (Partner, Varnum) and Joe Morrison, Jr. (Partner, Barnes & Thornburg) as they share practical tips, best practices, and real-world examples for using generative AI effectively to address common startup legal questions. They’ll discuss where AI can add value, where caution is warranted, and how it can serve as a powerful complement to working with experienced startup counsel.

About the Presenters:

Matt Bauer | Partner, Varnum
Matt Bower serves as outside general counsel to emerging and middle-market companies, advising on corporate governance, venture financings, mergers and acquisitions, securities, intellectual property, and commercial transactions. He has extensive experience helping startups and investors navigate fundraising, growth, and exits, with a focus on technology, SaaS, manufacturing, life sciences, and real estate syndications. Based in Ann Arbor, he leads the firm’s office and is active in the venture capital and entrepreneurial community.

Joe Morrison, Jr. | Partner, Barnes & Thornburg
Joseph Morrison advises entrepreneurs, family offices, venture investors, and high-growth companies on investment transactions, financings, mergers and acquisitions, governance, technology licensing, and other strategic legal matters. Drawing on a background in business and technology consulting, he helps clients navigate complex deals efficiently while focusing on their long-term business goals. An active member of the Ann Arbor startup community, Joe regularly speaks to entrepreneurs, students, and founders on legal issues affecting high-growth companies.

This SPARK.ed is hosted virtually by Ann Arbor SPARK.