Ann Arbor SPARK, with support from the Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA), is introducing a new addition to the ten-day a2Tech360 series (September 24 – October 3, 2025): The Business of Life Sciences. The event will take place on Thursday, October 2, from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the newly opened MI-HQ in downtown Ypsilanti, in the former EMU College of Business.
A Growing Industry in a Leading Innovation Hub
Ann Arbor is home to one of the Midwest’s most dynamic life sciences clusters, with more than 250 firms and 6,000 employees driving advances in biotechnology, medical devices, and healthcare services. Recent years have seen landmark investments from global leaders like Sartorius and Wacker, as well as the rapid growth of startups developing breakthrough therapies, diagnostics, and tools.
At the center of this growth is MI-HQ, a collaborative hub that provides shared lab and office space to dozens of early-stage companies. By expanding into Ypsilanti, MI-HQ is creating new opportunities for startups to access critical infrastructure and resources in a supportive, innovation-driven environment.
This momentum reflects the broader strength of the Ann Arbor region’s startup ecosystem. Recently ranked a Top Five Startup City in the Midwest, Ann Arbor earned the #1 ranking for startup density, #2 for total number of startups and startup momentum, and #3 for patents issued—recognition that underscores the region’s outsized impact compared to much larger metro areas.
Keynote and Panels
The event will include a keynote by Kelly Sexton, Associate Vice President for Research–Innovation Partnerships and Economic Impact at the University of Michigan, and Ann Arbor SPARK board chair. Sexton will highlight how university-industry collaborations fuel commercialization and economic growth in the life sciences, a sector where Ann Arbor-based companies are making national headlines. Local success stories include HistoSonics, a pioneer in histotripsy technology, and recent investments such as the $2.25 billion medical device funding round led by Jeff Bezos and other global investors—demonstrating both the promise of the industry and the opportunities for regional innovators to scale breakthroughs onto the world stage.
Attendees will also hear from two engaging panels:
- The Path to Commercialization
Moderator: Diane Bouis, Microvascular Health Solutions
Panelists: Stephanie Morley, CEO, Vetlen; David Esposito, CEO, ONL Therapeutics; and David Canter, former Executive Director, NCRC, and Senior Associate Vice President, University of Michigan.
This panel brings together seasoned entrepreneurs who have successfully navigated the path of launching innovative companies and funding transformative solutions. Panelists will share candid stories of regulatory hurdles, funding gaps, and strategic missteps, along with the lessons and strategies that helped them succeed. Expect practical insights on navigating regulatory pathways, building investor-ready business models, and avoiding common pitfalls in early-stage development. - Life Sciences Innovation Resources
Moderator: Loren Townes Jr., Ann Arbor SPARK
Panelists: Charlie Childs, Intero Bio Systems; Matthew Hymes, A2BioSocial / i5 Bio Partners; Brandon McNaughton, Akadeum Life Sciences; and James Kim, Arboretum Ventures.
Bringing together leaders from both entrepreneurial and venture capital communities, the discussion will serve as a roadmap to navigating the local innovation landscape. Panelists will share how they’ve leveraged regional assets to grow their companies and shine a light on under-the-radar “hidden gems” that can make a critical difference at key stages of development. Whether you’re just getting started or scaling a growing venture, this session will connect you with the tools, networks, and insights that can accelerate your journey from idea to impact.
Networking begins with coffee at 9:00 a.m., and lunch is included with registration. Free parking for this event is available in the surface lot at 301 W. Michigan Ave., conveniently located right across the street.
“a2Tech360 has always reflected the evolving cutting-edge spirit of our region,” said Jenn Hayman, senior vice president of marketing, communications & events at Ann Arbor SPARK. “By introducing The Business of Life Sciences to the lineup, we’re embracing life sciences as one of the fastest-growing drivers of innovation and investment here. This event creates a unique platform where researchers, entrepreneurs, and investors can connect to accelerate ideas that improve lives and fuel economic impact.”
Event Snapshot
- Date: Thursday, October 2, 2025
- Time: 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
- Location: MI-HQ, Downtown Ypsilanti (300 W Michigan Ave)
- Registration: $50 per person
The event is sponsored by Sartorius, MI-HQ, and ONL Therapeutics.
The Business of Life Sciences is one of nine signature events and 15 partner events that make up a2Tech360, Ann Arbor’s ten-day celebration of the region’s vibrant tech and innovation ecosystem. Organized by Ann Arbor SPARK and the LDFA, the series highlights the people, companies, and ideas shaping what’s next in industries ranging from IT and mobility to life sciences, clean tech, and beyond. Many events are free to attend, making the series accessible to a wide audience that includes startup founders, investors, job seekers, students, policymakers, and seasoned executives. From high-energy pitch competitions and hands-on technology demos to thought-provoking panels and community-building networking sessions, a2Tech360 offers a unique chance to experience the breadth of innovation that makes the Ann Arbor region a top destination for entrepreneurs and talent.
Learn more and register today at a2Tech360.com.
