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GVSU will host applied AI workshop for entrepreneurs during Northern Michigan Startup Week
April 14, 2026
Leaders at Grand Valley State University are responding to community needs by hosting an applied AI workshop for entrepreneurs and partnering on a student research symposium during Northern Michigan Startup Week, April 20-24.
Details on both events are below.
• Applied AI and Entrepreneurship: Building Connections for Innovation: April 20, 10 a.m.-3 p.m., The Hagerty Center, 715 E Front St. in Traverse City; GVSU's College of Computing will showcase resources designed to show how applied AI can drive innovation and commercialization in Northern Michigan. GVSU President Philomena V. Mantella will give opening remarks.
Samir Iqbal, associate dean of research, said this event is designed to spark collaborations, help startup teams and connect ideas to funding pathways. Attendees can look forward to applied AI demonstrations, guidance on federal funding paths and pitches from 20Fathoms startups and others.
In February, GVSU received $1 million in federal support to establish the West Michigan Trustworthy AI Consortium, uniting academia, industry, government and nonprofits to advance responsible, ethical and trustworthy AI.
GVSU also launched a free, online course to help learners build a practical understanding of AI and how to use it responsibly in their everyday lives. Registration is open.
• Student Science Symposium: April 24, 5:30-7:30 p.m., Timothy J. Nelson Innovation Center, 1701 E. Front St., Traverse City; co-hosted by Northwestern Michigan College and GVSU, students will showcase their research.
Shannon Owen, GVSU director of the Northern Michigan Region, said the university is pleased to participate in Northern Michigan Startup Week.
"What we're hearing from the community is a need to better understand how applied AI supports local businesses and entrepreneurs," Owen said. "Of course, we're always happy to support our students who do such relevant and impactful research.
"Startup Week will shine a light on these events and bring energy and community together."
By Michele Coffill