LANSING, Mich. — (December 17, 2025) — 517 Entrepreneurship & Innovation Week (517 E&I Week), the region’s flagship celebration of entrepreneurial energy and creative technology, will return April 6–10, 2026 to Michigan State University and venues across Lansing and East Lansing. The entire week showcases hundreds of the region’s brightest and most creative company founders.
Building on the momentum of last year’s expanded regional collaboration, the 2026 program will feature more than 20 partner-led events, a central Innovation Hub located at the Graduate Hotel in East Lansing, and a week-long series of workshops, panels, mixers, and showcases designed to connect founders, students, creatives, investors, and industry leaders.
This year marks the second year that the Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP), in partnership with the Lansing Regional SmartZone (LRSZ), is coordinating the week alongside key ecosystem partners.
“The 517 E&I Week shines a light on the people and ideas shaping a more dynamic regional economy,” said Bob Trezise, president and CEO of LEAP. “Our region is home to world-class talent, cutting-edge research, and a thriving base of creators and entrepreneurs. This week is about elevating that energy, strengthening collaboration, and opening doors for the next generation of innovators. Key to the future of the Lansing region is the continued support of this startup ecosystem and mentality that rivals any major metro area in the state and nation.”
With daily programming across the Lansing region, attendees will have access to expert-led workshops, startup resources, pitch opportunities, and curated networking experiences. The week will also introduce new CreativeTech programming, expanded student-focused events, and community celebrations aimed at making innovation accessible to all.
“The SmartZone is excited to sponsor 517 E&I Week again this year and especially thrilled that the event hub is located within the SmartZone in downtown East Lansing,” said Jillian Winn, director of the Lansing Regional SmartZone. “It is the entrepreneurs who put in the hard work every day, and the SmartZone exists to shine a light on those efforts, support their growth, connect them to resources, and help build a strong and collaborative innovation community. 517 E&I Week does just that, and the energy, creativity, and momentum it brings to our region our inspiring.”
Key partners include the Michigan State University Research Foundation, the MSU Innovation Center, the Burgess Institute for Entrepreneurship & Innovation, and dozens of local organizations contributing programming throughout the week.
The first wave of events can be viewed at 517ei.com, with additional events being added each month leading up to the April kickoff. Entrepreneurs, organizations, and community partners interested in hosting an event or sponsoring the week are encouraged to visit the website to explore the current lineup and learn more about opportunities to get involved.
