2017 Lifetime Achievement Awardee
Michigan has experienced investors, like Ian Bund, who are playing a critical role in building Michigan’s entrepreneurial and investment community. The lifetime achievement nominees are individuals who formed the foundation of Michigan’s entrepreneurial and investment community, paving the way for the next generation with their leadership and expertise.
Ian Bund was presented with the Lifetime Achievement Award for playing an instrumental role in growing and shaping Michigan’s venture capital community. He was critical to the success of multiple venture capital firms in the state, including the first institutionally-backed firm in Michigan. Bund was recruited to Michigan in 1976 to join one of the two small venture capital firms operating in the state, Midland-based Doan Associates. Beginning in 1978, Bund assisted Professor David Brophy, the Director of the Office for the Study of Private Equity Finance at University of Michigan, with the launch of Michigan Growth Capital Symposium. Because of Bund’s leadership and guidance, venture capital is now an established industry in Michigan with over 30 firms either headquartered or with offices in Michigan.