Students, faculty, staff, alumni and the public are welcome to join this special event 

🚀 The Venture Ecosystem: From Lab Discovery to Corporate VC

The bridge between groundbreaking research and global market scale is shorter than ever. Join us at the Wayne State University - Mike Ilitch School of Business for an immersive morning exploring the future of biotech and the evolving role of corporate venture capital.

We are thrilled to welcome Crystal Brown CEO and Co-Founder of CircNova Inc., as our keynote speaker. She will dive into how AI is fundamentally rewriting the biotech playbook.

🗓️ Event Details:

When: Friday, February 27, 2026 | 8:30 am – Noon

Where: Mike Ilitch School of Business, 2771 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI

Who: Open to WSU Students, Faculty, Alumni, MVCA Members, and the Public.

💡 Featured Panel:

"The Strategic Advantage: Why Corporate Venture is Changing the Startup Game" Gain insights from industry leaders on how strategic investment is reshaping the startup landscape:

Kurt Baumgarten – Partner, GM Ventures

Josh Berg – Managing Director, Magna International/Magna Tech Investments

Ben Cohen – VP Strategy, Hella Ventures/Forvia

Ara Topouzian (Moderator) – Executive Director, Michigan Venture Capital Association

🕒 Agenda:

8:30 am: Hot Breakfast & Networking

9:15 am: Welcome & Introductions

9:30 am: Keynote: Crystal Brown

10:30 am: Panel Discussion

11:30 am: Networking

Whether you are a student looking to enter the ecosystem or a professional looking to stay ahead of the curve, this is a conversation you won't want to miss.

🔗 Register here: https://waynestate.az1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_1KOLMufbli7xeD4

#WayneState #DetroitBusiness #VentureCapital #Biotech #AI #Entrepreneurship #DetroitTech #MVCA #Innovation