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From Startups to Sustainability: SPARK Annual Meeting Explores Innovation and Climate Resilience

Chamber Member Press Release

May 21, 2025, Ypsilanti, MI – Nearly 400 business, academic, and community leaders gathered at the Eastern Michigan University Student Center for Ann Arbor SPARK’s sold-out Annual Meeting, a celebration of the organization’s 2024 accomplishments and the people and programs driving innovation across the region.
 
Kelly Sexton, Associate Vice President for Research – Innovation Partnerships and Economic Impact at the University of Michigan and Chair of the SPARK Board of Directors, highlighted SPARK’s far-reaching impact in 2024, emphasizing how its programs are fueling startup growth, creating jobs, and strengthening the regional economy.
 
Among the standout figures:
 

  • SPARK provided consulting and critical services to over 450 startups, supporting more than 1,000 jobs through its Entrepreneurial Services team.
     
  • The SPARK East Innovation Center supported 38 Ypsilanti-based startups and reached 480 youth through education and career initiatives.
     
  • The Small Business Support Hub assisted 237 small businesses, more than 60 percent of which were women- and minority-owned, and helped launch 18 new companies.
     
  • The organization led 17 business development projects, generating over $97 million in private investment and supporting nearly 1,200 jobs.
     
  • Through SPARK Capital and the Michigan Angel Fund, over $59 million has been invested to date, helping Michigan startups raise more than $1.5 billion in follow-on funding.
     
For a deeper look at the year’s accomplishments, read the full 2024 Annual Report here.
 
“We’re proud to partner with so many forward-thinking leaders who believe in the power of innovation to strengthen our economy and communities,” said Paul Krutko, Ann Arbor SPARK president and CEO. “The momentum we saw in 2024 reflects what’s possible when entrepreneurs, investors, government, and academia align around shared goals.”
 
The meeting featured a keynote from Abrahm Lustgarten, award-winning investigative journalist and author of On the Move. His presentation examined how climate migration will shape the future of communities like Washtenaw County — a topic deeply connected to talent attraction, resilience planning, and long-term economic competitiveness. Lustgarten emphasized the urgent economic dimensions of climate change, noting that in the U.S., migration patterns will increasingly be driven by financial necessity rather than environmental preference. He also highlighted Michigan’s growing reputation as a climate-resilient destination. Each attendee received a copy of On the Move, with a book signing held immediately following the program.
 
“Abrahm’s keynote was a timely reminder that the places best positioned to attract talent and investment in the future will be those that adapt to the realities of climate change. Our work at SPARK is about making sure the Ann Arbor region is one of those places,” said Krutko.
 
In addition to the keynote and annual impact review, SPARK honored several leaders whose work has shaped the region. Videos celebrating each of this year’s award recipients are linked below.
  Recognizing outstanding volunteer service and dedication to SPARK’s mission. Robert’s leadership and time commitment have helped strengthen our programs and community partnerships.
  Honoring a public official whose vision and collaboration have significantly advanced regional economic growth. Mandy’s steadfast leadership has been instrumental in supporting business attraction and development.
  Presented in memory of SPARK’s founding CEO, this award celebrates exceptional leadership that elevates our region’s economic potential. David’s contributions reflect a deep commitment to innovation, sustainability, and inclusive prosperity.
  Recognizing a standout startup that has leveraged SPARK’s Entrepreneurial Services to grow, attract investment, and advance breakthrough innovation. ONL exemplifies the kind of success we strive to nurture.
  Awarded for a transformative project with regional impact. This collaboration brings cutting-edge research to Ypsilanti Township, creating new jobs and advancing national scientific priorities.
 
  • Special Recognition: Erin Wiley, longtime SPARK staff member, honored upon her retirement
 The event also highlighted efforts to address long-term challenges, including a regional Child Care Coalition launched by SPARK to tackle barriers to workforce participation, and continued advocacy for tools like the new Michigan R&D tax credit.

SPARK expressed appreciation for the support of the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation (keynote sponsor), Comcast Business and DTE (premier sponsors), and Toyota (partner sponsor), as well as more than 60 private sector investors whose ongoing commitment powers SPARK’s mission.

For more information on Ann Arbor SPARK’s work and initiatives, visit annarborusa.org.
 
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From Startups to Sustainability: SPAR...

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