Rich Cook joins WMSTI as Venture Center Director

Rich Cook, former CEO of X-Rite, Inc. has joined the West Michigan Science & Technology Initiative (WMSTI) as venture center director. The venture center director works directly with clients and tenants by laying out commercialization roadmaps and business development plans.

“I am looking forward to working with WMSTI's current clients while working to grow our client base. I will assess potential and existing clients, determine their needs and then work to put together a plan of action that is mutually beneficial for both parties,” said Cook.

Cook's career spans three Michigan-based global technologically driven companies. He has served diverse markets including instrumentation, software, office furniture, transportation, aerospace, displays, computer peripherals, business machinery and solid waste disposal.  He has also taught at Hope College and Grand Valley State University.

“WMSTI is now better-equipped to serve our clients and tenants with Rich on board as venture center director. He has international experience with joint ventures and acquisitions and U.S. experience in seed venture capital. He is a welcome asset to our organization,” said Linda Chamberlain, Ph.D., interim executive director of WMSTI.

The West Michigan Science and Technology Initiative was formed in 2003 as a partnership between the Right Place, Inc., Van Andel Research Institute, Grand Valley State University, the City of Grand Rapids and Grand Rapids Community College. The partnership has recently expanded to include Spectrum Health, Saint Mary's Health Care, Mary Free Bed Rehabilitation Hospital, and the Grand Angels.  

The West Michigan Science & Technology Initiative's mission is to grow and diversify the community economy by creating an environment that inspires innovation and supports the commercialization of science and technology.

For more information, contact Kim Bode at (616) 331-5841 or (616) 299-2677