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Ann Arbor SPARK hosting Angel Investor panel discussion

Wednesday, September 03, 2008

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Ann Arbor

Some people like to think an angel is watching over them. Most entrepreneurs and start-up companies, however, would rather see that angel's face ...and more importantly the money he or she can provide.

BioArbor and Ann Arbor SPARK are trying to help make that happen next week with a free panel discussion about angel investors at 5 p.m. Sept. 10 at SPARK's downtown Ann Arbor offices, 330 E. Liberty.

The panel will feature three experienced angel investors who have worked in the life sciences industry in the Midwest. The experts will speak on issues ranging from providing critical start-up money, how they pick which ones to invest in and why they invest in them. There will be time for an audience Q&A session.

The three panel members include:

-- Walt Young, a former CEO and chairman of Champion Enterprises, the largest manufactured home builder in the U.S. He currently sits on the boards of NRG Energy and Accuri Cytometers, among other firms.

-- Bix Benson, a veteran banking expert. He is now a partner with venture capital firm Ruffolo Benson.

-- Timothy Mayleben, an independent investor, advisor and serial entrepreneur. He also serves as an advisor for the Wolverine Venture Fund in the University of Michigan's Ross Business School.

BioArbor works to improve the life sciences industry in the greater Ann Arbor area. It focuses on technology commercialization, financing strategies, business development, regulatory affairs and marketing.

For information, call (734) 527-9150 or click here.

Source: Ann Arbor SPARK and BioArbor
Writer: Jon Zemke