October Business Events

Thanks to our friend Diana Durance of GLEQ for putting this awesome list together.

GLEQ Fall Programs

Ask-the-Investors events -
Detroit with Bizdom - November 5, 5-7:30 p.m.
Sterling Heights with Macomb-OU Inc. - November 18, 5-7:30 p.m.
Ann Arbor with NEF and Maker Works - November 21, 5-7:30 p.m.

Business Model Canvas Walkthroughs - Conference Calls
November 4, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
November 4, 3-4 p.m.

Completing the Business Model Canvas Peer-to-Peer Workshops -
Ypsilanti at SPARK East - November 6, 5-7 p.m.
Grand Rapids at GVSU - November 19, 5-7 p.m.

"Making a Three Minute Video" for Your Vision to Action Challenge Submission - Conference Calls:
December 3, 9-10 a.m.
December 5, 6-7 p.m.

Highlights Time Sensitive Opportunities

TechTown Venture Accelerator Applications. Think you can handle it? This highly competitive, boot camp-style program will help show you how to turn your early stage, technology-based startup into a sustainable, market-ready business.
Monday, September 30, 5 p.m., Applications Due
http://techtowndetroit.org/entrepreneur/labs/venture-accelerator/

Agriculture Entrepreneurial Grant Opportunity. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation are providing grants for projects that will positively impact Michigan's food and agriculture industry.
Wednesday, October 2, 5 p.m. Application Deadline
http://michigan.gov/mdard/0,1607,7-125-1568_51684---,00.html?utm_source=getresponse&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=kbsinsider&utm_content=August+KBS+Insider

2013 MichBio Expo & Conference. The 2013 Expo & Conference theme is "Bio-Growth Through Bio-Innovation," and will feature prominent keynote/plenary speakers and panelists who will focus on the latest in technology and business practice innovation and company growth across the spectrum of sectors. The Conference promises to be an incredible opportunity for knowledge-sharing, information gathering and networking for Michigan's bio-industry representatives.
Tuesday and Wednesday, October 15, 7 a.m.-7 p.m., October 16, 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
Radisson Plaza Hotel, Kalamazoo
http://www.michbio.org/expo

U-E Conference. This fall, the U-Entrepreneurship in partnership with the University of Michigan is hosting the largest student-led entrepreneurial / business conference in the country. Fourteen hundred students from 15 schools across the United States will come together for three days of workshops, speakers, and events at the Power Center and Ross School of Business. U-E's mission is to inspire students to take initiative and become leaders within their field.
Friday-Sunday, October 18, 7:30a.m.-1:30 p.m., October 19, 9 a.m.-10 p.m., October 20, 9 a.m.-4 p.m.
University of Michigan, Power Center, 121 Fletcher Street, Ann Arbor
http://www.u-econference.com/

GreenUp - 2013 MI Green Chemistry and Engineering Conference. The 2012 GreenUp Conference and 4th Annual Michigan Green Chemistry Governor's Awards Ceremony will take place in Detroit - a city fueled by innovation and ripe with opportunities for driving sustainable manufacturing through green chemistry and engineering.
Thursday, October 24, 7:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Grand Valley State University, Eberhard Center, 301 W. Fulton Street, Grand Rapids
http://www.michigan.gov/deq/0,4561,7-135-3308_3333-274602--,00.html

October Events and Opportunities

Remember to check the sites for the specific events and opportunities as they are subject to change.

Michigan Small Business & Technology Development Center (MISBTDC). The MI­SBTDC offers a comprehensive selection of trainings and workshops statewide for Entrepreneurs - almost 100 each month. The topics are geared to those just starting their first business and also those experienced entrepreneurs looking for ways to improve and enhance their success. Topics include: Writing a Business Plan, Business Accounting and Budgeting, Business Start­up, Cash Flow Management, E­Commerce, Finance, Government Contracting, Venture Plan Workshops (excellent way to get the support you need over a 6 to 10 week program), Managing a Business, Managing Employees, Marketing and Sales, Taxes, and Technology. The GLEQ calendar will highlight select events offered, but many more are available.
October 1-­31
http://www.misbtdc.net

LA2M. These lunches present a variety of experts on a variety of topics to help entrepreneurs market themselves and their businesses. October 1, Fourth and Long. Come to lunch at LA2M to connect and learn how to market.
Tuesday, October 1, 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m.
Conor O'Neills, 318 South Main Street, Ann Arbor
http://www.la2m.org/

Tips on SBIR/STTR Electronic Submission to the Department of Energy. This webinar will provide tips and guidance to help applicants avoid common errors and successfully navigate the electronic submission process .
Tuesday, October 1, 1-2 p.m.
WEBINAR
http://www.bbcetc.com/training/

Capital Raise Meetup. If you are a startup or early-stage growth-based business looking for funding, come meet and listen to capital expert, Mike Brennan, Business Commercialization and Capital Investment. He will detail the various capital sources in Michigan, and talk about how to properly position your company to be qualified for private funding, including private equity, the angel network and venture capital, and/or public funding, including grants, pre-seed, micro-loans and venture match.
Tuesday, October 1, 9:30-11 a.m.
Macomb-OU INCubator at Velocity, 6633 Eighteen Mile Road, Sterling Heights
MacINC@Oakland.edu

Motor City Connect Live - Novi. Join the business professionals of Motor City Connect for an effective and fun alternative to the traditional networking meeting. This is a chance for everyone to come face-to-face with other MCC members. MCC Live lunches are relaxed, casual and usually good for a few laughs. It's never a something you have to attend; it's an event you want to attend. No sixty-second commercials. No ten-minute speakers. This is just a chance to break bread together, meet new people, seek to understand their needs and connect on a new level.
Tuesday, October 1, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
BD's Mongolian BBQ, 43155 Main Street, Novi
http://motorcityconnect.groupsite.com

CEED Microloan Orientation. Many small businesses face obstacles when trying to obtain a business loan. The recognition of the serious need for working capital for existing businesses, start-up or expansion, equipment purchases, and job creation is not the priority it once was. If you have a need for alternative financing consider the MicroLoan Program. Discover the requirements and process necessary to apply and obtain a microloan.
Wednesday, October 2, 10 a.m.-noon
MI-SBTDC Detroit Business Center, 163 Madison Street, Detroit
https://www.misbtdc.net/events.aspx

LTU Intellectual Property Symposium. You are cordially invited to attend an important Intellectual Property Symposium: "The Detroit Branch of the United States Patent and Trademark Office (U.S. PTO) and its Effect on Current and Future Patenting Activity in Southeast Michigan". Speakers and panelists include: Faris Almatrahi, US Patent and Trademark Office, Dr. Moudgil, President and CEO of LTU, Dr. Cole, Chairman, AutoHarvest, Paul Prestia, RatnerPrestia and more.
Wednesday, October 2, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
LTU, 21000 W. 10 Mile Road, Southfield
https://ltu.wufoo.com/forms/ltu-ip-symposium/

Class @ Start Garden: Concept Development 101. Tiger Studio will outline the process of the early product development or "Concept Development" and how it relates to engineering, launch, and marketing goals. You will be guided through a proven process and cover important tenants of a successful product. Luciano Hernandez will use live case studies to emphasize the process.
Wednesday, October 2, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Start Garden, 50 Louis Ave., 1st floor, Grand Rapids
www.StartGarden.com

October Business Plan Workshop Series. Detroit SCORE presents this series of workshops to assist entrepreneurs to successfully launch their businesses. The series includes Research and Sales Planning (October 2), Startup Costs and Financial Statements (October 9) and Writing your Plan for Funding (October 23).
Wednesdays, October 2, 9 and 23, 8:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Michigan First Credit Union, 27000 Evergreen Road, Lathrup Village
http://detroit.score.org/localworkshops

Selling Smart Workshop - Setting Ground Rules for Healthy Business Relationships. Each of the Workshop events will include an hour of practice selling, followed by an hour presentation on a different sales topic.
Wednesday, October 2, 9-11 a.m.
SPARK Central, Lower Level, 330 E. Liberty Street, Ann Arbor
http://www.annarborusa.org/events

TEDxDetroit. TEDxDetroit is where the area's leading creators, catalysts, entrepreneurs, artists, technologists, designers, scientists, thinkers and doers will gather to share what they are most passionate about - positive ideas for the world from Detroit. TED isn't a who, it's a what. TED stands for Technology, Entertainment and Design, three broad subject areas that are shaping our future.
Wednesday, October 2, 7 a.m.-6 p.m.
Cobo Center, Grand Ballroom, Detroit
http://www.tedxdetroit.com/

Intro to GROW. Intro to GROW is the required first step for anyone eager to learn how to start or expand their small business. Get an overview of our programs and services, meet the staff, and watch our graduates describe their experiences in our inspirational video! Cost: Free.
Thursday, October 3, Noon-1 p.m. and 6-7 p.m.
GROW, 25 Sheldon Boulevard, Suite 210, Grand Rapids.
www.GROWBusiness.org

How to Prepare a Budget for SBIR/STTR Proposals. This session will walk through the development of a project budget. Items covered will include: what costs need to be included, how to write a budget justification, can the company afford to pursue this project, what indirect rate should be used and more.
Thursday, October 3, 1-2 p.m.
WEBINAR
http://www.bbcetc.com/training/

IT Summit - Saginaw. Join in for an exciting Incubator IT Summit hosted by the MidMichigan Innovation Center and the Michigan Business Incubator Association. Learn about and share educational, technological and training resources (including Salesforce® Customer Relationship Management software) for business incubator leaders throughout the state. We'll address real-world opportunities, best practices, and challenges faced by today's incubators. Explore the unique IT issues we confront as incubators/accelerators. Designed for incubator practitioners, IT professionals, IT managers.
Thursday, October 3, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Saginaw Career Complex, 2102 Weiss Street, Saginaw
http://www.mmic.us/

Michigan Energy Forum - Energy Myths. A variety of myths and misconceptions have crept into the common discussions and understanding about energy. This month's event will examine some of these common myths that people encounter in their daily lives. A panel of experienced energy professionals will seek to unravel the truths about these issues and understand how these myths might have developed in the first place.
Thursday, October 3, 5-7 p.m.
SPARK Central, Lower Level, 330 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor
http://www.annarborusa.org/events/month/2013-10

Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities Conference. You are invited to bring your ideas and expertise to this second annual statewide gathering of community movers, organizations, and businesses focused on growing and sustaining resilient entrepreneurial cities, towns, and regions. If you liked last year's conference in Petoskey... you'll love this year's conference in Marshall.
Thursday and Friday, October 3, 10:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m., October 4, 8:30 a.m.-noon
Marshall Chamber of Commerce, 323 E. Michigan Ave, Marshall
http://www.marshallmi.org/events/282

SBIR/STTR Information Session. Attend for information on the federal SBIR and STTR programs, which make over $2.4 billion available annually to small businesses for high-risk R&D. Morning and afternoon sessions will be presented by Becky Aistrup, Principal Consultant with BBC Entrepreneurial Training & Consulting. Learn about Michigan's many commercialization resources at a free Lunch and Learn session conducted by BBC's FASTconnect Program Consultant, Kristin Burgard.
Tuesday, October 8, noon-1 p.m.
Advanced Technology Development Center, 1402 E. Sharon Ave., Houghton
https://bbctraining10813.eventbrite.com

GROW - Strategic Planning Cluster. Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women presents this cluster of 3 workshops to assist business owners in understanding essential components of small business growth and planning. This cluster of workshops includes Strategic Planning, Taxes and Legal Issues (sessions 2 and 3).
Tuesdays, October 8, 15, and 22, 6-9 p.m.
GROW, 25 Sheldon Boulevard, Suite 210, Grand Rapids.
www.GROWbusiness.org

Ann Arbor OpenCoffee. This is a networking event for entrepreneurs, investors and those who work with innovation businesses, particularly in IT, cleantech and life sciences.
Tuesday, October 8, 8-9:30 a.m.
SPARK Central, 330 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor
http://www.annarborusa.org/events

Marketing Roundtable - Local Food-Marketing on a Napkin. Sure, everybody loves food. And it tastes even better when we're able to purchase it from our neighbors. But do you ever wonder what it takes to start, manage and grow a successful food business? Join the Marketing Roundtable for something different: a panel discussion with four gastropreneurs. They'll share their stories about what's worked well (or not so well) and tips for attracting and keeping customers.
Tuesday, October 8, 5-7 p.m.
SPARK, Lower Level, 330 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor
http://www.annarborusa.org/events/month/2013-10

Grand Rapids Inventors Network (GRIN). "Exit Strategies - Know How to Get Out Before You Get In". The guest speakers have been there. The panel: Jeff Royce, GVSU incubator lead, Terry Cross, successful entrepreneur and angel investor, and Joerg Picard, successful entrepreneur and Grand Angel in GR will share strategies and war stories about successes and parts of their not-so-great journeys too.
Tuesday, October 8, 6-8 p.m.
Grand Valley State University, Cook-DeVos Center for Health Sciences, Room 119, 301 Michigan Street N.E., Grand Rapids
http://www.grinventors.org/schedule.html

CEED Microloan Orientation. Many small businesses face obstacles when trying to obtain a business loan. The recognition of the serious need for working capital for existing businesses, start-up or expansion, equipment purchases, and job creation is not the priority it once was. If you have a need for alternative financing consider the MicroLoan Program. Discover the requirements and process necessary to apply and obtain a microloan.
Wednesday, October 9, 9-11 a.m.
Oakland County Business Center, Bldg 41 W, 2100 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford
https://www.misbtdc.net/events.aspx

Virtual Visit to the Kalamazoo Life Science Region. We will introduce you to the Southwest Michigan Innovation Center Life Science Incubator and other companies in the region that provide life science CRO services and IP investment opportunities. This online event will include a brief overview of the 125+ year life science legacy in Kalamazoo, highlights of the Southwest Michigan Innovation Center success as a life science incubator/accelerator, and virtual trade booths providing exhibitor information with live chats rooms with company representatives.
Wednesday, October 9, 2:30-5:30 p.m.
VIRTUAL
http://bit.ly/1e6oKe4

Innovation Club for Entrepreneurs Meetup. The purpose of the monthly Meetup is to provide a forum for sharing and exploring ideas in a positive and supportive environment. Meet people and find resources you need to bring your ideas to life. ICE is a collaborative effort of the Michigan State University Land Policy Institute and the MSU Entrepreneurship Network.
Wednesday, October 9, 6-8 p.m.
The MARC, 4675 Okemos Road, Okemos
http://www.meetup.com/ICE-meetup/

Speaker Series - Rodney Andrews. The i6 Proof of Concept Center presents a speaker series monthly. This month Rodney Andrews, Director of University of Kenty Center for Applied Energy Research will talk on "Algae Systems for Carbon Capture and Utilization".
Wednesday, October 9, 3:30-5 p.m.
MSU Bioeconomy Institute, 242 Howard Street, Holland
http://bioeconinst.msu.edu/event/speaker-series-rodney-andrews

SBIR/STTR 101 - Introduction and Overview. Attendees will learn SBIR/STTR program basics, including: program purpose, eligibility, sources of funding and tools for proposal development. It is designed to provide enough information for attendees to determine if they would like to seriously pursue a grant or contract proposal.
Wednesday, October 9, 9 a.m.-noon
BBCetc Offices, 803 N. Main, Ann Arbor
http://www.bbcetc.com/training/

Open Office Hours - Chat with Charlie @ TechTown. Are you an entrepreneur working on a technology-based or web-enabled business? Do you want to get an expert's opinion on your big idea, or are you seeking direction on how to secure funding, line up resources, make connections or more?
Wednesday, October 9, 10 a.m.-1:10 p.m.
TechTown, 440 Burroughs St., Detroit
http://openofficehours091213-eorg.eventbrite.com/

Class @ Start Garden - Developing your Brand Narrative. Calling brands "stories" is all the buzz. But what, exactly, does that mean? What is a "brand narrative?" What sort of story is it? What is it about? How should it be structured and told? Who's the protagonist, and what's the plot? Does it have a first, second, and third act? Here's a hint: an effective brand narrative does not just describe the customer's "pain." It's not a company's bio, cool imagery, or anecdotes about happy clients.
Wednesday, October 9, 5:30-7 p.m.
Start Garden, First Floor, 50 Louis Ave., Grand Rapids
www.StartGarden.com

October Business Plan Workshop Series. Detroit SCORE presents this series of workshops to assist entrepreneurs to successfully launch their businesses. The series includes Research and Sales Planning (October 2), Startup Costs and Financial Statements (October 9) and Writing your Plan for Funding (October 23).
Wednesdays, October 9 and 23, 8:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Michigan First Credit Union, 27000 Evergreen Road, Lathrup Village
http://detroit.score.org/localworkshops

Hot Topics for Business - Health Care Reform. Health care reform under the 2010 Affordable Care Act has and will continue to impact virtually every business in Michigan. Automation Alley's Finance Committee is proud to present the first of two lunch 'n' learn workshops devoted to hot topics for business. This presentation will provide business owners, CEOs and HR executives with a historical overview of the major health care law provisions impacting their bottom line and will help them work more effectively with their accounting, insurance and legal advisors to manage their health coverage responsibilities as employers.
Wednesday, October 9, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Automation Alley, 2675 Bellingham, Troy
http://www.automationalley.com/

Start Garden Happy Hour. This is an informal time to meet the Start Garden team, some of our funded projects and people in the ecosystem.
Thursday, October 10, 5:30-7 p.m.
Start Garden, 50 Louis Ave., 1st floor, Grand Rapids
www.StartGarden.com

Intro to GROW. Intro to GROW is the required first step for anyone eager to learn how to start or expand their small business. Get an overview of our programs and services, meet the staff, and watch our graduates describe their experiences in our inspirational video! Cost: Free.
Thursday, October 10, Noon-1 p.m. and 6-7 p.m.
GROW, 25 Sheldon Boulevard, Suite 210, Grand Rapids.
www.GROWBusiness.org

What you Need to Know About Government Audits. Technology firms who have received a grant or a contract are often unprepared to deal with a government audit. This webinar covers types of audit; company financial policies and procedures; contracts and agreements; equipment logs; required reporting; audit alerts, and more.
Thursday, October 10, 1-2 p.m.
WEBINAR
http://www.bbcetc.com/training/

TED Talks - Midland. Be enlightened and enjoy the company as we view inspiring videos from TED Talks, ideas worth spreading! Entrepreneurs, staff and MMIC members gather for conversation and community building, coffee and snacks. As TED speaker Steven Johnson said, "Chance favors the connected mind".
Thursday, October 10, 8:30-10 a.m.
MidMichigan Innovation Center, 2007 Austin Street, Midland
http://www.mmic.us/

Lunch & Learn with Aimee Bissonette. Minneapolis, MN based copyright lawyer, Aimee Bissonette will be at MTEC SmartZone for a Lunch & Learn event. She will be teaching local small businesses the in's and out's of copyright and legal issues in a highly interactive session over the lunch hour. She is on top of current legal developments and ensures her clients can problem solve the issues they see in the workplace.
Friday, October 11, noon-1 p.m.
SmartZone at Michigan Tech, 600 E. Lakeshore Drive, Houghton
http://www.mtecsz.com/?q=node/350

Lunch and Learn - Bootstrapping your Website. If your startup needs to utilize the internet, establish your brand, set up a marketing website, or use the web to run experiments - this lunch and learn is for you. Spending your investment wisely allows you to deliver your MVP efficiently. Chris Hashley will give some tips and talk about resources like templatemonster, shopify, 99 designs, Godaddy, wordpress, logotournament, A/B testing, Google Analytics/Adwords/Adsense, Paypal, Mailchimp, oDesk, eLance, AppSumo, and more!
Friday, October 11, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Start Garden, 1st floor, 50 Louis Ave., Grand Rapids
www.StartGarden.com

2013 Entrepreneur and Small Business Expo. The Expo will feature speakers, workshops, resources and information for business owners. Topics include, sales, marketing, social media, networking strategies and access to capital. International motivational speaker Ken Brown will share his best advice on how business owners can stay motivated through difficult times.
Saturday, October 12, noon-4 p.m.
Southfield Civic Center, 26000 Evergreen Road, Southfield
http://www.semea.info

MMIC Crowd Camp. Join MMIC, SPARK and the founders of RocketHub, one of the world's top crowdfunding platforms that has recently partnered with A&E Networks, to learn with other entrepreneurs, creatives, and makers on how to leverage the crowd for funding their endeavors.
Saturday and Sunday, October 12, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., October 13, 10 a.m.-noon
SPARK, Lower Level, 330 E. Liberty Street, Ann Arbor
http://www.mmic.us/

MEDC Global Trade Days. Please join the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), along with our statewide partners, for Global Trade Days! Join our five country market specialists from China, Canada, Brazil, Mexico and the United Arab Emirates to learn more about doing business in these dynamic markets. Topics to include: current opportunities and trends in these top Michigan export markets, assistance provided by the Michigan Centers and foreign trade offices and more.
Monday, October 14, 1-5 p.m.
Detroit Marriott Troy Hotel, 200 W. Big Beaver, Troy
http://www.automationalley.com/a2_nws_eventinfo?id=a086000000M4I0RAAV

GROW - Strategic Planning Cluster. Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women presents this cluster of 3 workshops to assist business owners in understanding essential components of small business growth and planning. This cluster of workshops includes Taxes and Legal Issues (sessions 2 and 3).
Tuesdays, October 15, and 22, 6-9 p.m.
GROW, 25 Sheldon Boulevard, Suite 210, Grand Rapids.
www.GROWbusiness.org

A2NewTech. Five presenters this month take the stage for ten minutes each, five minutes to demo and five minutes to answer questions, followed by open announcements and community networking. E-mail organizers(at)a2newtech.org if you'd like to present.
Tuesday, October 15, 6:30-8 p.m.
Law School, 701 S. State Street, South Hall, Room 1225, Ann Arbor
http://www.meetup.com/a2newtech/?trax_also_in_algorithm2=combo&traxDebug_also_in_algorithm2_picked=combo

Inbound Marketing - What is it and how to get started. Ann Arbor area chapter of The American Business Women's Association presents Bonnie Valentine of The Whole Brain Group, LLC as guest speaker. Attendees will have an opportunity to network, learn from guest speaker presentation and enjoy dinner at the Quarter Bistro.
Tuesday, October 15, 6-8 p.m.
The Quarter Bistro, 300 S. Maple, Ann Arbor
http://www.abwa-maia.org

Innovator's Spotlight - Midland. Join in for the Innovator Spotlight, an interactive tech-focused presentation and conversation with an industry luminary. You'll learn from our expert's experiences, both hits and misses, and how you can replicate successes and avoid pitfalls. Come and talk with forward-thinking, master entrepreneurs who can answer your hot-button questions based on practical know-how.
Tuesday, October 15, noon-1 p.m.
MidMichigan Innovation Center, 2007 Austin Street, Midland
http://www.mmic.us/

BOOST! Traverse City. The Boost! competition gives budding and second-stage entrepreneurs access to capital to fund their operations. Boost! is open to all entrepreneurs; those who win a local event gain direct access to MMIC's angel capital network. Present your business concept to compete for the chance to pitch to investors.
Tuesday, October 15, 5-8 p.m.
Specific location TBD, Traverse City
http://www.mmic.us/

Muskegon Inventors Network Monthly Meeting. The Muskegon Inventors Network (MIN) is a not-for-profit inventor/marketer group for West MI. Featured speakers at meetings include inventors sharing their patent process, successful inventors sharing how they got their products to market, companies that offer services that could help members reach their goals, and intellectual property attorneys who are willing to offer pro-bono help specifically related to patents and trademarks.
Tuesday, October 15, 6-8 p.m.
MAREC, 200 Viridian Drive, Muskegon
www.muskegoninventorsnetwork.org

2013 MichBio Expo & Conference. The 2013 Expo & Conference theme is "Bio-Growth Through Bio-Innovation," and will feature prominent keynote/plenary speakers and panelists who will focus on the latest in technology and business practice innovation and company growth across the spectrum of sectors. The Conference promises to be an incredible opportunity for knowledge-sharing, information gathering and networking for Michigan's bio-industry representatives.
Tuesday and Wednesday, October 15, 7 a.m.-7 p.m., October 16 7:30 a.m.- 3:30 p.m.
Radisson Plaza Hotel, Kalamazoo
http://www.michbio.org/expo

SBIR/STTR Proposal Prep - NSF Focus. This NSF-focused seminar provides in-depth instruction on preparing a competitive SBIR/STTR proposal that meets the unique requirements of the NSF.
Wednesday, October 16, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
OU Inc., One Golfview Lane, Rochester Hills
http://www.bbcetc.com/training/page/2/

Class @ Start Garden - How to Present Like a Pro. This session is designed to equip you with the basic skills you need to know before your next presentation. Participants will learn how to refine your topic, how to best identify the needs of your audience, gather and organize your research and present it all in such a way to leave them wanting more. We will also talk about the appropriate use of visuals and how to polish your delivery skills.z
Wednesday, October 16, 5:30-7 p.m.
Start Garden, First Floor, 50 Louis Ave., Grand Rapids
www.StartGarden.com

CEED Microloan Orientation. Many small businesses face obstacles when trying to obtain a business loan. The recognition of the serious need for working capital for existing businesses, start-up or expansion, equipment purchases, and job creation is not the priority it once was. If you have a need for alternative financing consider the MicroLoan Program. Discover the requirements and process necessary to apply and obtain a microloan.
Wednesday, October 16, 10 a.m.-noon
MI-SBTDC Detroit Business Center, 163 Madison Street, Detroit
https://www.misbtdc.net/events.aspx

Israeli Medical Technology Roadshow. The Michigan Israel Business Bridge is hosting The Trendlines Group and OurCrowd at two programs in Michigan. Trendlines, is a leader in developing early-stage Israeli companies, and OurCrowd is the Israel-based equity crowd-funding platform for early-stage investment opportunities, at an Israel Medical Technology Roadshow. The roadshow will feature 6 innovative Israeli start-ups. Accredited investors and strategic partners are invited to hear presentations, meet the entrepreneurs and to learn more about Trendlines, OurCrowd and the Israel start-up nation story.
Wednesday, October 16, noon-6:30
SPARK East, 315 W. Michigan, Ypsilanti
http://bit.ly/MIBBinAnnArborYpsi

Marketing Your Business. This course presents practical applications of marketing concepts designed to grow small businesses. It covers basic marketing tools including market analysis and research, target marketing, assessing competitors, and key marketing implementation tools. A strategic, well planned approach to marketing is demonstrated, with several examples of effective hands-on marketing techniques. Focus is on the business's customers - creating and keeping them.
Wednesday, October 16, 6-8 p.m.
MAREC, 200 Viridian Drive, Muskegon
https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=72330014

MEDC Global Trade Days. Please join the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), along with our statewide partners, for Global Trade Days! Join our five country market specialists from China, Canada, Brazil, Mexico and the United Arab Emirates to learn more about doing business in these dynamic markets. Topics to include: current opportunities and trends in these top Michigan export markets, assistance provided by the Michigan Centers and foreign trade offices and more.
Thursday, October 17, 8 a.m.-noon
GVSU, Cook DeVos Center for Health Sciences, 301 Michigan St. NE, Grand Rapids
http://www.automationalley.com/a2_nws_eventinfo?id=a086000000M4I0RAAV

Seeds of Growth Conference & Luncheon. The Alliance of Women Entrepreneurs (AWE), A Division of GROW, presents this conference with three tracks: Connections, Education, and Leadership and breakout sessions within each track. Attendees will have the opportunity to network prior to the conference and visit display tables from local businesses, AWE members, and vendors.
Thursday, October 17, 7 a.m.-1:30 p.m.
JW Marriott, 245 Louis Campau Promenade NW, Grand Rapids
https://growbusiness.org/seedsofgrowth.aspx

Fundamentals of Starting a Business. This seminar is designed for individuals who are considering self-employment, or are at the beginning stages of starting their business. This introductory session helps aspiring entrepreneurs assess their abilities to lead and manage a company, as well as evaluate market and sales potential for their products/services.
Thursday, October 17, 6-8 p.m.
Cleary University, NW Corner of US-23 and Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor
http://annarborscore.com/events.html

The Legal Landscape of "Bring Your Own Device". "BYOD" stands for "bring your own device," the practice of allowing employees and contractors to use personal devices, such as laptops, smart phones, home computers and tablets, to conduct the organization's business. Whether your organization allows BYOD or not, a workable policy to address the myriad of legal issues raised is a must. If you are a contractor working with an organization, BYOD can also have implications for you.
Thursday, October 17, noon-1 p.m.
Macomb-OU Incubator at Velocity, 6633 Eighteen Mile Road, Sterling Heights
MacINC@Oakland.edu

Practical Strategies for Indirect Rate Development for SBIR/STTR. This session will explain indirect cost treatment and how to prepare an indirect cost proposal.
Thursday, October 17, 1-2 p.m.
WEBINAR
http://www.bbcetc.com/training/page/2/

Midwest UX 2013 Conference. Midwest UX 2013 is the third year of a widly successful three-day regional User Experience Design conference that combines talks, workshops and excursions held in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Offering community, inspiration and skill-building. Participate and learn from the experiences of regional professionals and international experts. Discover examples and new approaches to improving user experience on the Web, mobile and beyond.
Thursday-Saturday, October 17, 7 a.m.-5 p.m., October 18, 8 a.m.-11 p.m., October 19, 8:45 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Kendall College of Art and Design, 2 Fulton Street W., Grand Rapids
http://2013.midwestuxconference.com/program/

New Enterprise Forum. Come to NEF's monthly meeting, network and interact with the expert panel discussing the topic "Business Models - What works?" that will include Jim Baker, Executive Director, Innovation and Industry Engagement at MTU, Paula Sorrell, Managing Director of Entrepreneurial Services at MEDC and Elyse Kemmerer White of Tangent Medical.
Thursday, October 17, 5-8 p.m.
Holiday Inn, 3600 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor
http://www.newenterpriseforum.org/

MEDC Global Trade Days. Please join the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), along with our statewide partners, for Global Trade Days! Join our five country market specialists from China, Canada, Brazil, Mexico and the United Arab Emirates to learn more about doing business in these dynamic markets. Topics to include: current opportunities and trends in these top Michigan export markets, assistance provided by the Michigan Centers and foreign trade offices and more.
Friday, October 17, 9 a.m.-noon
Specific location TBD, Traverse City
http://www.automationalley.com/a2_nws_eventinfo?id=a086000000M4I0RAAV

e-merge Elevator Pitch - Student Preparation Session. Baker College is hosting a pitch competition in November with two tracks - students and public group. Students who wish to apply to pitch are required to attend this workshop which will provide guidance and an opportunity to practice.
Monday, October 21, 6-8 p.m.
Baker College Auditorium, 1903 Marquette Ave., Muskegon
http://guides.baker.edu/elevatorpitch

GROW - Strategic Planning Cluster. Grand Rapids Opportunities for Women presents this cluster of 3 workshops to assist business owners in understanding essential components of small business growth and planning. This cluster of workshops includes Taxes and Legal Issues (sessions 3).
Tuesday, October 22, 6-9 p.m.
GROW, 25 Sheldon Boulevard, Suite 210, Grand Rapids.
www.GROWbusiness.org

Motor City Connect - Royal Oak. Join the business professionals of Motor City Connect for an effective and fun alternative to the traditional networking meeting. This is a chance for everyone to come face-to-face with other MCC members. MCC Live lunches are relaxed, casual and usually good for a few laughs. It's never a something you have to attend; it's an event you want to attend. No sixty-second commercials. No ten-minute speakers. This is just a chance to break bread together, meet new people, seek to understand their needs and connect on a new level.
Tuesday, October 22, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m.
Tequila Blue, 526 Main, Royal Oak
http://motorcityconnect.groupsite.com

2013 Brand Camp - Branding, Entrepreneurship and Technology Conference. More than 500 of Michigan's most talented entrepreneurs, investors, designers, developers and creative minds will meet in Detroit to learn, exchange ideas and network at 2013 Brand Camp.
Tuesday, October 22, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Wayne State University Community Arts, Center Auditorium, 450 Reuther Mall, Detroit
http://bcu13detroit-eorg.eventbrite.com/

Open Office Hours - Chat with Charlie @ TechTown. Are you an entrepreneur working on a technology-based or web-enabled business? Do you want to get an expert's opinion on your big idea, or are you seeking direction on how to secure funding, line up resources, make connections or more?
Wednesday, October 23, 9:30 a.m.-12:40 p.m.
TechTown, 440 Burroughs St., Detroit
http://openofficehours091213-eorg.eventbrite.com/

Essentials of an SBIR/STTR Commercialization Plan. Learn the basics of an SBIR/STTR commercialization plan. Includes information on the ingredients of a credible plan, pitfalls to avoid, using market research and building financial plans and business models.
Wednesday, October 23, 1-2 p.m.
WEBINAR
http://www.bbcetc.com/training/page/2/

Start Smart. A business readiness course offered monthly. The Start Smart class focuses on the fundamentals of doing business. Once completed, Start Smart provides participants with the ability to understand what it takes to run their own business. Prerequisite: Intro to GROW.
Wednesday, October 23, 6-9 p.m.
GROW, 25 Sheldon Blvd SE, Ste. 210, Grand Rapids
www.GROWbusiness.org

October Business Plan Workshop Series. Detroit SCORE presents this series of workshops to assist entrepreneurs to successfully launch their businesses. The series includes Research and Sales Planning (October 2), Startup Costs and Financial Statements (October 9) and Writing your Plan for Funding (October 23).
Wednesday, October 23, 8:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Michigan First Credit Union, 27000 Evergreen Road, Lathrup Village
http://detroit.score.org/localworkshops

Fight Fraud. This workshop is designed to assist business owners to identify potential fraud and provide means to prevent it. We will explore the different types of fraud that threaten businesses and guide participants in setting up the safeguards that will help protect them.
Wednesday, October 23, 7:30-10:30 a.m.
MAREC, 200 Viridian Drive, Muskegon
https://www.misbtdc.net/workshop.aspx?ekey=72330015

Class @ Start Garden - Social Media for Startups. Social Media has been around for a couple years now, but the tried and true strategies for entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs working in the lean-startup model aren't well known. In this Social Media for Startups class Paul Kortman will overview brief strategies for the major social platforms helping you achieve success in whatever phase of the startup you are in, from problem discovery, to problem validation, from problem/solution fit, to product/market fit. Learn how to leverage social media to acquire real customers!
Wednesday, October 23, 5:30-7 p.m.
Start Garden, First Floor, 50 Louis Ave., Grand Rapids
www.StartGarden.com

Team SBA Financing Roundtable - Sterling Heights. Learn how lenders analyze your loan request, and what they look for in a credit application. Meet with bankers, SBA loan officers and small business consultants to discuss your financing needs. You must know how much money you need to borrow. A completed business plan is highly recommended.
Thursday, October 24, 9 a.m.-noon
Macomb-OU INCubator at Velocity, 6633 Eighteen Mile Road, Sterling Heights
https://www.misbtdc.net/events.aspx

Quickbooks and Compliance for SBIR/STTR Recipients. This webinar will discuss how to manage your SBIR/STTR grant or contract to can improve your odds of moving from Phase I to Phase II, and Phase II to Phase III (transition and/or commercialization).
Thursday, October 24, 1-2 p.m.
WEBINAR
http://www.bbcetc.com/training/page/2/

Start Garden Update Night. You've endorsed, we've endorsed and now it's time to find out how our invested ideas have grown. Each presenter will be allowed 3 minutes to answer the following questions: What was your hypothesis? What was your experiment? What did you learn? What is next?
Thursday, October 24, 5-8 p.m.
Start Garden, 1st Floor, 50 Louis Ave., Grand Rapids
www.StartGarden.com

TED Talks - Midland. Be enlightened and enjoy the company as attendees view inspiring videos from TED Talks, ideas worth spreading. Entrepreneurs, staff and MMIC members gather for conversation and community building, coffee and snacks.
Thursday, October 24, 8:30-10 a.m.
MidMichigan Innovatino Center, 2007 Austin Street, Midland
http://www.mmic.us/

Nutriinfo Wellness Conference. Discover the trends and tactics that can help your organization create a healthy, thriving workforce and community. Nutriinfo.com, an online wellness solution company, will be hosting a conference with two renowned guest speakers, Nancy Scarlet and Bethany Thayer. This event will motivate organization leaders and wellness professionals to implement effective prevention strategies and wellness initiatives into their workplaces and communities.
Friday, October 25, 9 a.m.-noon
Holiday Inn, 3600 Plymouth Road, Ann Arbor
http://nutriinfowellness.eventbrite.com/

West Shore Inventor/Entrepreneur Network Monthly Meeting. The West Shore Inventor/Entrepreneur Network (WIN) provides guidance in the areas of intellectual property development and protection, business planning, financial assistance and marketing strategies. The network offers these services at regular monthly meetings at no charge to members who pay a small annual membership fee.
Monday, October 28, 6-8 p.m.
West Shore Community College, Schoenherr Campus Center, 3000 N. Stiles, Room 751, Scottville
http://www.wininventors.org

Hot Shots: Career Connections. Bring your resume, and come and mingle with growing, innovative companies in a fun and relaxed environment! This event is only for talent seeking opportunities for themselves. Recruiters and staffing companies should use other venues to meet with these company representatives.
Tuesday, October 29, 5-7 p.m.
SPARK, Lower Level, 330 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor
http://www.annarborusa.org/events

DOE Overview and Topic Review. Does your project have an application in the current Dept. of Energy SBIR/STTR solicitation? Get an overview of the DoE's program and current topics, ask questions and learn how to get your proposal off to a great start.
Tuesday, October 29, 1-2 p.m.
WEBINAR
http://www.bbcetc.com/training/page/2/

Stories from Successful Entrepreneurs - Mallory Brown. Mallory Brown is a creative entrepreneur who finds her greatest sense of self while traveling. Numerous backpacking trips through Asia, Central and South America opened her eyes to the needs of others. In 2010, as a 24-year-old social entrepreneur, she found World Clothes Line, an apparel company with a "Buy 1, Give 1" mission. Come find out more and have an opportunity to ask your questions.
Tuesday, October 29, 9-11 a.m.
Macomb-OU INCubator at Velocity, 6633 Eighteen Mile Road, Sterling Heights
MacINC@Oakland.edu

The Importance of Organizational Culture. If you're organization has been challenged by employee turnover or not being able to attract the right talent, you're not alone. Come to this interactive event to hear from business leaders and subject matter experts why organizational culture may be the solution.
Wednesday, October 30, 5-7 p.m.
SPARK, Lower Level, 330 E. Liberty, Ann Arbor
http://www.annarborusa.org/events

Best Shot Competition - Gaylord. At the Best Shot Competition, you'll test your business savvy by getting in front of customers in a real live environment. An expert panel of guest judges critiques your pitch while a supportive audience cheers you to victory. Winners receive valuable prizes along with MMIC and their sponsor's expert guidance to: locate target customers, arrange presentations, assist with consumer websites, develop sales channels, advise on legal and accounting issues, help with PR and marketing and more.
Wednesday, October 30, 5-8 p.m.
University Center, 80 Livingston Blvd., Gaylord
http://www.mmic.us/

I-Hub Lunch Club. Mac-OU INC staff, Executives-in-Residence, Business Advisory Board members and all clients are welcome to join us at the end of every month for the I-Hub Lunch Club. Why eat your lunch at your desk when you can get to know the others involved in the incubator? You may just meet the contact you need for your next business endeavor.
Wednesday, October 30, noon-1 p.m.
Macomb-OU INCubator at Velocity, 6633 Eighteen Mile Rd., Sterling Heights
MacINC@oakland.edu

Class @ Start Garden - Financial Modeling for High Growth Ventures. This class will address gap-funding and programmatic support available to Michigan entrepreneurs, but will be primarily focused on how to create projections for both long-term strategic planning and investor-readiness. Both the output format and structure of the financial model will be discussed, along with tips and suggestions helpful to creating a viable and flexible model.
Wednesday, October 30, 5:30-7 p.m.
Start Garden, First Floor, 50 Louis Ave., Grand Rapids
www.StartGarden.com

CEO Summit. Join Business Leaders for Michigan and the state's top business minds. Be part of making Michigan the winning place for investment, innovation and jobs.
Tuesday, October 30, 8 a.m.-3 p.m.
The Westin Book Cadillac, 1114 Washington Blvd., Detroit
https://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/eventReg?oeidk=a07e7lg6qmid1ae67e4&oseq=&c=&ch=

Overview of DOD Topics and Components. Does your project have an application in the current Dept. of Defense SBIR/STTR solicitation? Get an overview of the topics as well as the various DoD components, ask questions and learn how to get your proposal off to a great start.
Thursday, October 31, 1-2 p.m.
WEBINAR
http://www.bbcetc.com/training/page/2/

Early Notification of November Events

A Business Model Canvas Walkthrough - A.M. Partcipants in the GLEQ Vision to Action Challenge and other area entrepreneurs will have an opportunity to walk through the Business Model Canvas with Dr. Tim Syfert of Grand Valley State University. Dr. Syfert's approach is fairly informal so attendees can ask questions during the walkthrough.
Monday, November 4, 9:30-10:30 a.m.
CONFERENCE CALL
https://www.messageblocks.com/events/gleqbmcwalkthrougham/registrations/new

A Business Model Canvas Walkthrough - A.M. Partcipants in the GLEQ Vision to Action Challenge and other area entrepreneurs will have an opportunity to walk through the Business Model Canvas with Dr. Tim Syfert of Grand Valley State University. Dr. Syfert's approach is fairly informal so attendees can ask questions during the walkthrough.
Monday, November 4, 3-4 P.M.
CONFERENCE CALL
https://www.messageblocks.com/events/gleqbmcwalkthroughpm/registrations/new

Ask-the-Investors. This GLEQ event hosted by Bizdom is designed to give entrepreneurs the opportunity to ask investors questions; what do investors want to see in a business plan or executive summary, what makes a compelling and fundable plan, how should you handle weaknesses in your business plan like an incomplete management team, the competitive risks, five year financials and much more. A panel of investors will field your questions and provide suggestions.
Tuesday, November 5, 5-7:30 p.m.
Specific location TBD, Detroit
https://www.messageblocks.com/events/asktheinvestorsdetroit/registrations/new

Completing the Business Model Canvas Peer to Peer - Ypsilanti. Participants in GLEQ's Vision to Action Challenge will have an opportunity to work with coahes and one another to complete their Business Model Canvas. Participants should visit www.Canvanizer.com to get familiar with the editable document.
Wednesday, November 6, 5-7 p.m.
SPARK East, 215 W Michigan Ave, Ypsilanti
https://www.messageblocks.com/events/gleqcanvasypsi/registrations/new

Making it in Michigan. Making it in Michigan, Michigan's premier specialty food show, will help to celebrate food based businesses and accelerate their achievement. Register if you are a food based company for educational, networking and an industry leading keynote speaker session or sign up to attend to experience delicious food made by entrepreneurs right here in Michigan.
Tuesday, November 12, 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Lansing Center, 333 W. Michigan Ave., Lansing
http://productcenter.msu.edu/miim

Accelerate Michigan Innovation Competition and Gala. Accelerate Michigan Innovation Competition is an international business competition designed to bring together later stage entrepreneurial companies with local, national and international investors. It showcases the best and brightest new business concepts to invest capital to help forster their growth within Michigan. Semi-finalists will compete Wednesday and Thursday for top spots to pitch at the Awards Gala Thursday evening.
Tuesday, November 12, 5-7:30 p.m., Welcome Reception
Guardian Building, 500 Griswold Street, Detroit
Wednesday, November 13, 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Semi-finalists compete
Westin Book Cadillac, 1114 Washington Blvd., Detroit
Thursday, November 14, 8 a.m.-3:15 p.m., Semi-finalists compete
Westin Book Cadillac, 1114 Washington Blvd., Detroit
Thursday, November 14, 5-9:30 p.m., Awards Gala
Ochestra Hall, 3711 Woodward Ave., Detroit
http://www.acceleratemichigan.org/