Ann Arbor SPARK is inviting entrepreneurs, business professionals, and emerging leaders to sharpen their skills through SPARK Lead, a free virtual training series focused on effective leadership, team development, and workplace culture.
As part of Ann Arbor SPARK’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses in the greater Ann Arbor region, SPARK Lead sessions are designed to deliver actionable insights and real-world tools for professionals at any stage of their leadership journey. The series is part of SPARK’s broader strategy to strengthen the local innovation economy by equipping individuals and organizations with the knowledge and resources to grow and succeed.
“SPARK Lead is one of the many ways we help entrepreneurs and small business leaders not only build successful companies, but also become confident, collaborative leaders,” said Jenn Hayman, Senior Vice President of Marketing, Communications, and Events at Ann Arbor SPARK. “The skills gained in these sessions create ripple effects across teams and communities.”
Each session is led by subject matter experts and is designed to be highly interactive, with focused discussions and practical exercises. The series is open to executives, HR professionals, team leaders, and anyone committed to fostering healthy, high-performing workplaces.
Registration is required, and attendance is limited to encourage rich participation. No recordings are available.
Upcoming SPARK Lead Sessions:
- Learning to Lead – May 13, 2025
Discover core leadership principles and develop a personal leadership philosophy to inspire and lead with authenticity. - Emotional Intelligence – June 11, 2025
Gain tools to enhance self-awareness, empathy, and relationship management for improved team dynamics. - Communications & Conflict – September 16, 2025
Reframe conflict as a constructive tool and explore communication techniques that build understanding and trust. - Neurodiversity & Neuro Inclusion at Work – October 14, 2025
Understand how to support neurodivergent team members and foster inclusive environments. - Understanding Generational Differences – November 18, 2025
Learn to navigate and leverage generational diversity for better collaboration and engagement. - Managing Difficult Conversations – December 9, 2025
Master techniques to navigate high-stakes conversations with clarity and empathy.
SPARK Lead is one component of Ann Arbor SPARK’s broader commitment to supporting the success of entrepreneurs, small businesses, and growing companies across the region.
Throughout the year, SPARK offers a variety of free educational programs—ranging from technical training to leadership development—each designed to address real-world challenges and opportunities faced by today’s business leaders. Whether someone is launching their first venture, scaling a growing team, or simply looking to sharpen their skills, these sessions offer practical tools and expert guidance in an accessible, community-focused format. By creating space for learning, connection, and shared problem-solving, SPARK’s educational programming helps build a more resilient and inclusive innovation ecosystem—one where more people and ideas can thrive.
To learn more or register, visit: annarborusa.org/sparklead
