On June 4, MVCA hosted its annual MVCAcademy in the heart of Ann Arbor, welcoming over two dozen emerging investors, operators, and students for a full day of educational programming, professional development, and networking.
Held at Bamboo and capped off with a networking reception at Grizzly Peak Brewing Company, MVCAcademy 2025 provided a comprehensive look at the venture capital ecosystem in Michigan—delivered by some of the state’s most experienced professionals.
MVCAcademy was originally created as a professional development opportunity for participants in the MVCA Venture Fellows Program—a talent initiative that places promising professionals in Michigan-based venture firms, supported through a public-private partnership with the State of Michigan/Michigan Economic Development Corporation. As interest grew, MVCA expanded the program to welcome a broader audience, including venture firm interns, corporate venture analysts, university partners, and members of Michigan’s next generation of investors and entrepreneurs. This year’s event doubled in size from 2024, reflecting the growing demand for accessible, high-quality training in venture capital fundamentals.
From transaction insights to board governance and cap table mechanics, the day’s agenda was packed with valuable takeaways:
-
MVCA 101: Executive Director Ara Topouzian kicked off the day with an overview of the Michigan Venture Capital Association’s mission, programs, and growing community.
- Fund Manager Perspectives: Aditi Rajagopal (Good Growth Capital) and Ben Bernstein (Beringea) discussed real-world transactions and what drives investment decision-making.
-
Pitch Perfect Workshop: Dale Grogan and Meagan Malm (Michigan Capital Network) led a standout session that pushed participants outside of their comfort zones. For some, it was their first time ever pitching in front of a group—and they absolutely crushed it. Dale and Meagan provided honest, insightful, and incredibly helpful feedback that left attendees more confident in their storytelling skills and personal brand.
-
Fireside Chat on Start Up Boards with Mahendra Ramsinghani: In a relaxed and engaging fireside chat format, Ara Topouzian (virtually) sat down with Mahendra Ramsinghani—author of Startup Boards—to discuss how boards can effectively support early-stage companies. Audience members actively joined the conversation, asking thoughtful questions about founder-board dynamics, board structure, and what makes someone a truly impactful board member. The session offered practical, candid advice for anyone who serves—or aspires to serve—on a startup board.
-
Legal Best Practices: Josie Boucher (Warner Norcross + Judd) and Meagan Malm returned to unpack legal essentials around term sheets and investment memos.
-
Cap Table Essentials: Ethan Linkner (Muditā Venture Partners) and Will Foss (University of Michigan) guided attendees through the fundamentals of ownership structures and dilution.
-
LP Success Blueprint: Nate Campbell (UAW Retiree Medical Benefits Trust) and Jon Mecoli (Charles Stewart Mott Foundation) shared what Limited Partners look for when evaluating fund performance and alignment.
The event brought together participants from across Michigan’s investment and startup communities, including MVCA Venture Fellows, university partners, corporate venture professionals, and early-career investors. This diverse mix fostered cross-sector dialogue and connection-building throughout the day.
We extend our sincere thanks to all the speakers who generously shared their time and expertise, as well as to our participants for making MVCAcademy an energizing and meaningful event.
