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Ann Arbor SPARK Unveils Invest360 and Michigan Startup Capital Summit to Accelerate the State’s Innovation and Investment Economy

August 13, 2024 Uncategorized

Ann Arbor SPARK, the region’s leading economic development organization, has announced two key events as part of a2Tech360: Invest360 on September 20th and the newly evolved Michigan Startup Capital Summit, formerly known as the Michigan Angel Summit, on September 26th.

Invest360 showcases Southeast Michigan’s most promising early-stage companies across three dynamic sectors: Information Technology, Mobility, and Healthcare. Over the course of the event, fifteen startups present to a panel of seasoned venture investors, and vie for a $200,000 pool of investment dollars.  The event features a keynote from successful serial entrepreneur, Sean Ainsworth, the CEO and Chairman of Immusoft Corporation, as well as a panel of tech founders with successful company exits.

Complementing Invest360 is the Michigan Startup Capital Summit (MSCS), a premier gathering designed to offer a comprehensive educational program on early-stage funding, provide valuable insights and resources for angel and venture investors, start-ups, and would-be entrepreneurs across Michigan.

The MSCS features a keynote from Kelly Sexton, the Associate Vice President for Research – Innovation Partnerships and Economic Impact at the University of Michigan, and panel discussions on startup capital momentum, angel investor growth, and generative AI. Speakers include VC, angels, and business leaders at the forefront of Michigan’s startup scene. A networking lunch and reception as well as a handful of startup presentations round out the agenda.

“We’re excited to host these pivotal events that demonstrate Ann Arbor SPARK’s commitment to fostering a thriving startup community in Michigan,” said Mike Flanagan, vice president of capital programs for Ann Arbor SPARK. “Invest360 and the MSCS are integral to driving innovation and investment in our region. We look forward to seeing the transformative impact these startups will have on our economy.”

As Michigan continues to emerge as a national leader in innovation and technology, Invest360 and the MSCS play a crucial role in showcasing the state’s talent and connecting them with the resources they need to succeed. The events are expected to attract hundreds of participants and convene entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders to fuel Michigan’s vibrant innovation ecosystem.

Event Details:

  • Invest360, Friday, September 20, 2024
    • 8am – 4pm
    • University of Michigan Golf Course Club House, 500 E Stadium Blvd, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
    • View the agenda and speakers here
  • Michigan Startup Capital Summit, Thursday, September 26, 2024
    • 9:30am – 5pm
    • Graduate Hotel, E Huron Ann Arbor, MI 48104
    • View the agenda and speakers here



ABOUT A2TECH360
a2Tech360 is a premier technology and innovation event series that celebrates and explores the thriving tech ecosystem in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Through a diverse range of events, a2Tech360 brings together thought leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts to showcase the latest advancements, foster collaboration, and inspire new ideas. For more information, visit https://a2tech360.com.