BioArbor® Life Science Startup Forum

Where Michigan's Next Life Science Leaders Meet

Are you....

…ready to turn breakthrough science into real-world impact?

…considering launching a life science startup in Michigan?

…looking to plug into the region’s entrepreneurial and career opportunities?

Join us at BioArbor^®

At the center of Michigan’s life sciences ecosystem, BioArbor^® brings founders, researchers, investors, and industry experts together for energizing conversations, practical guidance, and the in-the-room connections that move companies and careers forward.

Who You'll Meet

Startup teams in biotech, medtech, diagnostics, digital health, and therapeutics
Researchers exploring translation and commercialization
Entrepreneurs transforming discoveries into products
Early-stage investors, strategic partners, and ecosystem builders
Local service providers that can help with a wide range of early startup needs

Why Attend

Build connections that matter
Meet the people who open doors in life sciences—investors, mentors, collaborators, and supporters.
Get actionable insights
Gain practical guidance you can use immediately: formation strategy, capital planning, regulatory pathways, IP essentials, clinical roadmapping, and more.
Tap into Michigan’s innovation engine
Join the community powering Michigan’s next generation of venture-backed life science companies.

Upcoming BioArbor^® Events

Date: Wed., Sept, 23, 2026 | 5:00-7:00 PM

Location: Plymouth Green Innovation Community | 3600 Green Court, Ann Arbor

AI Patentability: Navigating the Future of Innovation
AI is changing not only what we invent but how we invent it. From AI-generated software to AI-enabled therapeutics, diagnostics, and medical devices, innovators face new questions around patentability, inventorship, ownership, and intellectual property strategy. This session will explore the evolving legal landscape and practical approaches to protecting innovation in the age of artificial intelligence.

Moderator:

DeAnn Smith, Partner, Foley Hoag

Panelists:

Brian Doughty, Associate General Counsel, University of Michigan Office of the Vice President & General Counsel
Grant Griffith, Partner, Honigman
Daniela Walters, Principal Shareholder, Dobrusin IP Law

REGISTER

Date: Wed., Oct. 14, 2026 | 5:00-7:00 PM

Location: Plymouth Green Innovation Community | 3600 Green Court, Ann Arbor

Seeing What Others Miss: Lessons from a Physician, Entrepreneur & Venture Investor
What separates promising ideas from market-changing healthcare innovations? Join Louis Cannon, MD, Founder & CEO of Biostar Capital, for a candid fireside conversation on identifying unmet clinical needs, evaluating emerging technologies, attracting investment, and translating innovation into commercial success. Drawing on decades of experience as a physician, entrepreneur, inventor, and venture investor, Dr. Cannon will share practical lessons for founders, innovators, and life science leaders.

Moderator:

Micaela Trexler, PhD

Speaker:

Louis Cannon, MD

REGISTER

Date: Wed., Nov. 4, 2026 | 5:00-7:00 PM

Location: Plymouth Green Innovation Community | 3600 Green Court, Ann Arbor

What It Takes to Win: Leadership, Strategy & Growth in the Life Sciences
Great science may spark innovation, but leadership and execution determine long-term success. Join Ravi Kiron, PhD, MBA, for an engaging conversation on the principles that drive high-performing life science organizations. Drawing on decades of experience as an executive, entrepreneur, and board advisor, Ravi will explore the decisions that distinguish organizations that succeed from those that struggle, and how leaders can translate innovation into enduring businesses.

Moderator: