Chris Holman welcomes back Joe Finkler, inventor, mentor, and board member of Michigan Inventors Coalition, Grand Rapids, MI.
Watch Joe and Chris discuss how the Michigan Inventors Summit helps innovators turn ideas into businesses and grow Michigan’s innovation economy, all in the YouTube video shared below:
There were several things Chris wanted to find out from Joe in this conversation:
- What is the Michigan Inventors Summit, and why is it important for entrepreneurs and innovators across the state?
- Can you talk about Paula Macpherson’s role as Chair of MIC2026 and the impact her leadership brings to this year’s summit as you celebrate your 14th year?
- For someone with a new product idea, what value does attending this event provide in terms of turning that idea into a business?
- The “Spin, Pitch, & Sell” competition is a big highlight, what opportunities does it create for inventors looking to grow or gain exposure?
- What are the biggest challenges inventors face when bringing a product to market, and how does this summit help address them?
- How does the Michigan Inventors Coalition support long-term business growth and strengthen Michigan’s innovation economy?
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Entrepreneurs, industry leaders and emerging inventors will gather to collaborate, learn and bring new ideas to market
LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Inventors Coalition will host its 14th Annual Inventors Summit on Thursday, July 9, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center on the campus of Michigan State University in East Lansing.
Hosted by the Michigan Inventor’s Coalition and supported in part by a Michigan State University Regional Economic Innovation grant, the Summit will bring together more than 300 innovators, entrepreneurs, investors and industry experts for a day of education, networking and product discovery.
“The Michigan Inventors Summit is about turning ideas into action,” said Paula Macpherson, 2026 Inventors Summit event chair for the Michigan Inventors Coalition and executive director of Velocity, Sterling Heights’ business accelerator and incubator. “Michigan has a long legacy of innovation. This event will continue that tradition by connecting inventors with the tools, relationships and real-world knowledge they need to move forward with confidence.”
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
The Summit will take place at the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center. Room Big Ten A will feature exhibitor tables and the Invention Showcase, while Big Ten B will host keynote presentations and panel discussions.
Attendees can expect:
● The live “Spin, Pitch, & Sell” pitch competition with real-time audience voting and cash prizes
● Inspiring speaker panels and breakout sessions focused on commercialization, licensing, manufacturing, and retail readiness
● An Invention Showcase featuring products and prototypes from Michigan inventors
● A Grand Reception and awards announcement with networking opportunities
● A VIP Glow Party hosted in partnership with Ward Law Office LLC, featuring food, a cash bar, and Pitch winners!
Admission to the pitch competition and reception is included with each event ticket.
PITCH COMPETITION
The Summit’s signature pitch competition, “Spin, Pitch, & Sell,” invites inventors with a minimum viable product to present live for a chance to win cash prizes and gain visibility. Sponsored by the New Economy Initiative (NEI), the competition awards a $3,000 first prize, which includes complimentary technical assistance. The second-place winner receives $1500 and two months of complimentary technical assistance, while the third-place winner receives $500 and one month. Technical assistance will be provided by Ward Law Office, Kevin Moran, Ash Creative, Velocity, Catalyst Media Factory, Samer Mansour, Joe Finkler, and Leah Nauseda.
Chaired by Meghan Hubbs, small business program manager at Velocity, the competition will feature real-time audience voting, with winners announced during the afternoon reception. Applications are currently open.
FEATURED SPEAKERS
The program will include nationally recognized experts, seasoned inventors, leaders in intellectual property, Amazon sales, and successful entrepreneurs. Confirmed and invited participants include:
● Barbara Kent and Joanna Serra, founders of Fundraiser Blankets® (as seen on Shark Tank)
● Special Guest from USPTO and longtime summit participant
● Dr. Brooks, Michigan State University leader in economic development and innovation
● Christopher Kaminsky, Grand River Makerspace, supporting inventors with prototyping and fabrication tools
● Steve Cantin has been in the pet industry for over 30 years. Sells to the top 25 pet stores worldwide. Petco, PetSmart, Chewy, and Pet Supply Plus.
● Craig Fowler, entrepreneur and angel investor
● Dennis Shaver, entrepreneur and innovation leader
● Kevin Moran, product development and retail strategist
● Special Guest, inventor and licensing expert known for negotiating high-value licensing agreements.
Past participants and affiliated inventors have secured retail placements, licensing agreements, national media exposure, and appearances on programs such as “Shark Tank.” The coalition also maintains partnerships with national inventor networks, including Inventor Groups of America, and collaborates with inventor organizations in Texas, Kentucky, Florida, and many more states.
“This Summit is truly a must-attend for anyone serious about turning an idea into a real product,” said Joanna Serra, founder of Fundraiser Blankets®. “As innovators ourselves, we know how challenging it can be to navigate everything from prototyping to pitching and getting in front of the right people. The Michigan Inventor’s Summit brings all of those critical resources together in one place. Whether you’re just starting out or ready to scale, this event can help move your idea forward in a meaningful way.”
STRENGTHENING MICHIGAN’S INNOVATION ECOSYSTEM
Founded in 2011, the Michigan Inventors Coalition is a statewide 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting early-stage inventors as they move ideas toward commercialization. Through education, mentorship, and a collaborative network of local, statewide, and federal partners, MIC serves as a hub for Michigan’s innovation community.
Retail and fulfillment partners, including organizations supporting Walmart and Amazon distribution, are expected to participate in the summit.
Organizers are currently seeking volunteers and additional sponsors for the 2026 event. Sponsors include ASH Interactive and Catalyst Media Factory, with additional partners to be announced. Organizations interested in sponsoring or volunteering can learn more at www.miinventors.org.
For more information about the 2026 Inventors Summit and future programming, visit www.miinventors.org.
ABOUT MICHIGAN INVENTORS COALITION
The Michigan Inventors Coalition (MIC) is a statewide 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting Michigan’s early-stage and innovators as they move ideas toward commercialization. Founded in 2011, MIC connects inventors with critical resources through education, mentorship and a collaborative network of local, statewide and federal partners. For more information, visit www.miinventors.org.
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