BioArbor Life Science 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
Fueling Innovation: A Founder’s Guide to Life Sciences Debt Financing
Date: Wed., April 8, 2026 | 5:00-7:00 PM
Location: Plymouth Green Innovation Community | 3600 Green Court, Ann Arbor
Every equity round costs founders' ownership. But what if there were other ways to fund growth? Debt financing has quietly become a powerful tool for life sciences companies - from venture debt to equipment financing and cash-flow lending. When used strategically, these instruments can extend runway, fund critical infrastructure, and preserve founder control. Experts will explain how debt financing really works in the life sciences sector - when founders should start thinking about debt, how lenders evaluate companies, and the most common use cases - from purchasing lab equipment to bridging the gap between equity rounds. The session will also highlight examples of debt deals and the lessons founders can learn from them.
Panelists:
- Tony Dace, Vice President - Life Sciences, J.P. Morgan
- Patti Glaza, EVP & Managing Director, Invest Detroit Ventures
- John Patterson, Vice President - Life Sciences, J.P. Morgan
- Anthony Raiola, Vice President - Great Lakes, Camber Road
Life Science Innovation Showcase
Date: Wed., June 10, 2026 | 5:00-7:00 PM
Location: Plymouth Green Innovation Community | 3600 Green Court, Ann Arbor
Bonus: Washtenaw Dairy Sundae Bar | 5:00–6:00 PM
Kick off the evening with a local favorite—enjoy a complimentary sundae bar from Washtenaw Dairy while networking with fellow attendees.
Join us for an exciting evening of innovation and discovery at BioArbor’s Life Science Innovation Showcase. This event brings together visionaries and trailblazers from across the life sciences industry to spotlight groundbreaking advancements shaping the future of healthcare, science, and technology.
Featuring 4-6 cutting-edge technology companies, the session is a platform for these innovators to share their stories. Each company will deliver an engaging pitch, showcasing their products, technologies, market potential, and key accomplishments—including milestones in regulatory approval, clinical development, and manufacturing.
Interested in presenting? Complete this form below by April 29 to be considered!
Featured Companies
BioArbor is proudly supported by:
For all event-related questions and concerns, please contact us.