Ann Arbor SPARK is proud to present Tech Talk, an a2Tech360 event that brings together innovative voices and the community to advance the Ann Arbor region. This year, Tech Talk will explore the pivotal themes of placemaking, talent cultivation, and innovative strategies that are shaping our local economy. Focusing on these key areas, the event will explore how strategic investments in real estate, culture, and education are propelling Ann Arbor’s tech ecosystem and driving sustainable growth.
Event Details:
- Date: Tuesday, September 24
- Time: 5:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.
- Location: Venue by 4M | 1919 S Industrial Hwy, Ann Arbor, MI 48104
- Tickets: $25
Tech Talk will be emceed by State Representative Jason Morgan, who represents Michigan’s 23rd House District. Known for his dedication to economic growth and innovation, Rep. Morgan’s extensive background in local government and higher education makes him an ideal guide for the evening’s discussions. His leadership and commitment to advancing Michigan’s tech sector will help create an engaging and insightful experience for all attendees.
The event opens with three impactful presentations from industry leaders, each offering unique insights into themes that are pivotal to Ann Arbor’s future. Wonwoo Lee, Chief Real Estate Officer at Oxford Companies, will examine how commercial real estate has played a critical role in developing tech hubs and how Ann Arbor’s approach to growth has shaped its current strengths and future opportunities. Noah Kaplan, President and Founder of Leon Speakers and Mothfire Brewing Company, will share his journey of building a thriving creative campus in Ann Arbor. Bia Hamed, Program Manager of Global Education Initiatives at SEMI Foundation, will highlight local efforts to bring STEM education to the forefront, particularly in underfunded school districts.
Following the presentations, the event will feature a Fireside Chat on Child Care Innovations, led by Thressa Nichols, vice president of Operations at Snappt and founder of Recess Cafe. This discussion will bring together a diverse panel of experts, including Phil Santer, chief of staff at Ann Arbor SPARK; Amanda Lewan, founder of Bamboo; Deata McLemore, co-owner of Bottles-N-Backpacks Child Development Center; and Cheranissa Williams, economic opportunity manager for Washtenaw County. The panel will examine how child care availability and affordability directly impact economic development, workforce participation, and the success of the local tech ecosystem. Attendees will gain insights into innovative child care solutions and strategies that align with the region’s broader economic goals.
“Tech Talk is more than just a series of presentations—it’s a platform for meaningful conversations that drive our community forward,” said Phil Santer. “Events like this play a crucial role in fostering connections between leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs, which are vital for the continued growth and success of our region. By bringing together diverse perspectives on placemaking, talent development, and innovative solutions, we’re not only shaping the future of Ann Arbor’s tech ecosystem but also building a stronger, more resilient community.”
The evening will conclude with a networking reception, providing attendees the opportunity to connect with speakers, fellow professionals, and like-minded tech enthusiasts over Chef Thad Gillies’ food and drinks. This informal gathering is the perfect setting to build relationships, exchange ideas, and explore potential collaborations.
Tech Talk is a must-attend event for anyone interested in the future of technology and innovation in Ann Arbor. Attendees will walk away with new perspectives, actionable insights, and expanded networks—all crucial for driving forward in the fast-paced tech world.
Ann Arbor SPARK is committed to driving economic development through a range of services designed to support businesses at every stage of their growth. From offering resources for startups to providing assistance with talent acquisition, SPARK plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the Ann Arbor region. Through Tech Talk, SPARK reinforces its dedication to creating opportunities for thought leadership and collaboration among key stakeholders, ensuring that our community remains at the forefront of technological advancements and economic growth. This event is another way SPARK helps build a thriving ecosystem where businesses and individuals can flourish.
In partnership with the Ann Arbor-Ypsilanti Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA), Ann Arbor SPARK extends its gratitude to our a2Tech360 Marquee Sponsors: University of Michigan Innovation Partnerships, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Michigan Office of Future Mobility and Electrification, DTE Foundation, Kapnick Insurance, Rehmann, MI-HQ, and Wacker Chemical Corporation. a2Tech360 is a weeklong series of events in Ann Arbor that showcases the region’s spirit of innovation. From startups to established companies, a2Tech360 connects entrepreneurs, investors, researchers, and the public with the cutting-edge technology that is driving the future. Learn more about the speaker lineup and register to attend at a2Tech360.com.
