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Enjoy a welcome-to-Austin breakfast, meet other investors, get acquainted with our private Investor Lounge, and check out our special edition lookbook.

​This private event is for approved Funded House investors only. When you register at Funded House, you will be asked what kind of startups you would like to connect with and whether or not you would like to step in as a speaker or judge if an opportunity presents itself.

​Please register at fundedhouse.com if you have not done so already.

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​Kick off your weekend right with superconnector-hosted programming designed to help you and your startup make the most of your time here in Austin. 

​Grab a drink, get feedback from investors at our practice pitch, meet other entrepreneurs, and stick around for our finely-tuned investor panels. 

​Startups, please apply at fundedhouse.com and upload a deck when prompted to participate in our practice pitch.

​​Global Luminary International Women's Day Celebration WATCH PARTY to celebrate all of our Global Luminaries including Kristen Bell, Chelsea and Christine. Tonni Brodber, the Head of Secretariat for the United Nations Women's Peace & Humanitarian Fund (WPHF).

This event will highlight some of the women peacebuilders and human rights defenders whose work is supported by donations to WPHF.

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Featuring:

Tanyette Colón Founder/CEO of the Regal Resilience Network and InFUUSE.AI

and

SoVonna Day-Goins Founder of Women X Meta

How the $30 Trillion Wealth Shift to Women by 2030 is Reshaping Startup Funding, Commerce & Social Impact

We are in the midst of the Great Wealth Transfer, a quiet revolution where women will control $30 trillion in assets by 2030—a threefold increase. By 2045, a staggering $84 trillion will pass from Baby Boomers to women and Next-Gen investors (largely Gen X and Millennials). This session will explore how this historic shift will reshape:

1. Commerce & Consumer Behavior

• Values-Driven Capital: Women are more likely to invest in sustainable, ethical, and impact-driven businesses, driving a fundamental shift in commerce.

• Women-Led Brands & Community-Centric Business Models: We’ll see a surge in women-founded companies, creator-driven economies, and niche markets catering to underrepresented consumers.

• The Rise of the ‘Sheconomy’: Industries such as FemTech, wellness, and caregiving—historically underfunded—will experience explosive growth.

2. Startup Funding & Investment Trends

• Closing the Funding Gap: Women and Next-Gen investors are rethinking VC and private equity, leading to more diverse and inclusive investments.

• More Women-Led Funds & Angel Investors: Expect women-led venture firms, angel networks, and alternative funding models to expand dramatically.

• Shift from Short-Term Gains to Long-Term Impact: ESG investing, social impact capital, and generational wealth-building will take center stage.

3. The Social & Economic Impact of Women Controlling Wealth

• Philanthropy & Impact Investing Will Boom: More capital will flow into education, climate change, and community-driven initiatives.

• A More Inclusive Financial Ecosystem: Women are more likely to invest in diverse founders and underserved communities, breaking old economic barriers.

• AI, FinTech & WealthTech Innovation: Women’s control of assets will fuel new financial tools, AI-driven wealth platforms, and tech solutionstailored for this new 

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A new class of capital is emerging—one that bridges philanthropy and venture to fuel early-stage innovation like never before. The Horizon Impact Fund unlocks tax-optimized dollars for investment in high-impact, mission-driven startups, creating a pipeline of capital that has never existed in this space. By leveraging Donor-Advised Funds (DAFs) in a new way, we enable funding for transformative ideas while keeping philanthropic intent intact.

This shift is a game changer for foundations, PE firms, and universities, offering a fresh way to deploy capital that aligns financial returns with social good. Whether you’re an investor, operator, or impact leader, this is the future of funding bold innovation.

Join us for the conversation—then stick around for cocktails. Let’s dig in or just catch up over a beer.

Join the Horizon Fund & Midwest House for the Impact Capital Series and reimagine the future of wealth with transformational impact and return.

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An intentional conversation about some of the ways that Midwest angel investors our innovating to transform the regions startup ecosystem.

Featuring:

Moderator: Derrick Maultsby - Frost Brown Todd

Panelists:

Dawn Batts - Milestone Growth Capital

James Feagin - Ecomap Technologies

Mike Supeck - Ohio Angel Collective

Wolf Starr - The Venture Atlas

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Join us as six VCs from across the nation each pitch for five minutes on their investment thesis, preferred industries and regions, check sizes, and more — followed by networking!

**This event is highly curated, with preference given to Seed and Series A founders looking to raise. If you fall outside of these criteria, we’ll let you know by March 6th if you’ve been accepted.**

​Here's the line-up of our VC Presenters:
Forum Ventures (NYC, NY)
NY Angels (NYC, NY)
11 Tribes (Chicago, IL)
Ground Game (Indianapolis, IN)
Access Venture Partners (Denver, CO)
Storybook Ventures (Salt Lake City, UT)

​Exact location will be sent to approved attendees.
Sponsored by Fidelity and Forecastr

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Get your SX started right with this gathering of builders and connectors from all over the country. 

​Powered by Ecomap this event will feature music food, drinks, vibes, and very special fireside chat between:

Sherod Davis - Co-Founder & CEO of Ecomap

​and

​Victor Hwang - Author, Investor, & Founder of Right to Start 

​

​RSVP required but doesn't guarantee entry

Details to come

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On International Women’s Day, we’re celebrating the unstoppable force of women in entrepreneurship and investing. Investing in Her brings together visionary female founders and investors who are challenging the status quo, securing game-changing deals, and driving innovation in their industries. This powerful conversation will dive into the realities of raising capital as a woman, strategies for breaking barriers, and the critical role of women in shaping the future of business. Join us for an inspiring and action-driven discussion that not only highlights success stories but also paves the way for the next generation of female entrepreneurs.

Panelists

Courtney Claghorn, SUGARED + BRONZED, Founder

Delisa Harper, Funky Mellow, Cofounder

Emily Steele, Hummingbirds – CEO & Cofounder, MODERATOR

Juliette Richert, The Artemis Fund, Associate

Tessa Flippin, Capitalize VC – Founder & Managing Partner

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10:00 am - 10:25 am | Fireside Chat: "Leading the Way: Iceland’s Model for Women’s Leadership"

Svanhildur Hólm Valsdóttir, Ambassador of Iceland to the United States of America

10:25 am - 10:45 am | Panel Discussion: "What Gives? The Biggest Challenges (and Opportunities) for Founders in 2025”

Amy Chou, COO & Head of Product at Addition Wealth 

Ashley Pradhan, Co-Founder & CEO, IN BOLD PRINT

11:20 am - 11:45 am | Panel Discussion: “Executive Strategies for Unlocking Intrapreneurial Talent and Fueling Innovation” 

Rachel Garcia, VP of Revenue and Performance Marketing, ActiveCampaign 

Laurie Bauer, Founding Partner at Cooley LLP, Chicago

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The journey to investing in women’s sports is one of resilience, vision, and impact. This panel brings together trailblazing investors and leaders who have overcome challenges and reaped the rewards of championing women’s sports. Panelists will share their personal stories of breaking into the industry, discuss the power of representational investment, and provide actionable steps for individuals and communities to support and invest in women’s sports at all levels.

From navigating the path to the cap table—turning ideas into funded ventures—to leveraging grassroots and institutional investments, this discussion will equip attendees with the knowledge and inspiration to be a part of the movement.

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In alignment with International Women’s Day, join AnitaB.org, in partnership with Midwest House at SXSW, for an audience engaged discussion between AnitaB.org President of Advisory and Research, Bo Young Lee, and Sandy Carter, COO of Unstoppable Domains, about the role we all play in the development and use of responsible and ethical AI. 

Networking to follow. 

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Did you know Chicago is home to the world’s #1 globally ranked private innovation hub? Join 1871’s Chief Experience Officer as she dives into Chicago’s tech economy and shares what 1871 has to offer innovators (hint: you don’t have to be located in Chicago!) Whether you’re a founder, investor, or tech enthusiast, this session will inspire you to tap into one of the most dynamic innovation communities in the world.

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Illinois is a top 10 state for inclusive entrepreneurship. How does the rest of the Midwest stack up? Join Axios and the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center as they discuss the findings of their recent Venture Equity Project report. This discussion will highlight the policies, programs, and partnerships driving equity in entrepreneurship—in Illinois and across the country.

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Chicago’s food scene is legendary—from iconic hot dogs to cutting-edge food innovation. From Hot Dogs to High-Tech brings together industry leaders from Nature’s Fynd, Portillo’s, and Farmer’s Fridge to explore how technology, sustainability, and changing consumer tastes are reshaping the way we eat. From scaling beloved classics to pioneering new food solutions, this panel will dish out insights on what it takes to thrive in an evolving industry while staying true to Chicago’s rich culinary roots. Come hungry for ideas while filling up on Portillo’s chocolate cake and Farmer’s Fridge salads!

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Just like the perfect espresso shot, Microsoft Copilot can help entrepreneurs blend efficiency, creativity, and innovation into their daily grind. In this session, experts will spill the beans on how AI can help entrepreneurs streamline operations, enhance customer engagement, and fuel your business growth. Whether you’re just starting to percolate ideas or ready to pour AI into your workflow, this session will help you craft the perfect strategy—no barista required.

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Championship teams aren’t built alone—and neither are thriving communities. The Ultimate Assist explores how the Chicago Bulls and Microsoft are teaming up to drive meaningful change beyond the court. From empowering local youth and entrepreneurs to leveraging technology for social impact, this panel will highlight how strategic partnerships can create lasting opportunities.

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Chicago’s South Side will soon be home to a project with global impact—the Obama Presidential Center. From Chicago to the World explores how this center will serve as a beacon for civic engagement, economic growth, and community-driven change. Hear from Josh Harris, The Obama Foundation’s VP of Public Engagement, on how the center will inspire local and global leaders, create opportunities for Chicago’s neighborhoods, and cement the city’s role as a hub for innovation and activism. This is more than a building—it’s a movement.

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Roof Top Bar

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Venture capital fuels innovation—but who gets funded matters. In this 10-minute spotlight session, discover how Chicago:Blend is increasing representation and creating more equitable opportunities for overlooked funders and founders. Learn why a more inclusive investment landscape isn’t just the right thing to do—it’s the smart thing to do

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In an increasingly digital world, real-life connections matter more than ever. Join Samir Mirza, COO of Chicago-based startup Pie, alongside three of Pie’s creators for a conversation on the power of IRL togetherness. They’ll share insights on why building in-person communities is essential, how technology can enhance—not replace—human connection, and practical tips for bringing people together in meaningful ways. Whether you're looking to strengthen your neighborhood, organization, or creative circle, this session will give you the recipe for fostering authentic community in a hyper-connected world.

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Details to come

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The Players Company, Plain Sight, and Midwest House are coming together to host an unforgettable experience curated for sports figures, growth-stage founders, and venture capitalists during SXSW.

Through VC presentations, informative panels, and curated networking, this event promises guests the ability to gain new insights, make lasting connections, and have lots of fun.

Speaker Details to Come

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Witness the Elite 8 Midwestern Startup Founders pitch for a $10k prize.

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Featuring David Stout - AI Scientist, CEO & Founder of WebAI

&

Kevin Kleist - Sr Emerging Trends Advisor to Southwest Airlines

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As neurodiversity initiatives gain momentum, with 15-20% of the global population identifying as neurodivergent, organizations are recognizing the untapped potential of this talent pool. Our expert panel will explore how embracing neurodiversity can lead to increased innovation, productivity, and employee retention. 

Discover why companies with neurodiversity programs report retention rates of over 90% and productivity increases of 30-140%. Learn about the growing trend of neurodiversity disclosure in the workplace, the rise of Employee Resource Groups (ERGs) for neurodivergent employees, and tools that help foster self awareness and organizational inclusion initiatives.

Panelists:

• Kiran Taylor, MD - Chief Medical Officer, HOPE Network

• Michelle Ripper Lewis RN, BSN - VP Clinical Engagement & Solutions, Mentavi Health

• Ben Look, Partner, Seamless Ventures

• Sabrina Highfield, Masters Student, University of Texas at Austin

Moderated by:

• Corey Hart, Midwest House

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In 2025, the landscape in tech is more competitive than ever. AI is coming for all our jobs, investment capital is scarce, and we live in an increasingly volatile global context. Today, more than ever, the survival of our companies requires high-performing teams. Veteran tech leaders Scott Ryder (CTO @ Flow, former Apple, Netflix, Meta) and Jonah Bailey (Managing Partner at Atomic Object) believe the secret to the best tech teams isn't individual brilliance or hustle—it's culture. In their fire-side chat, you'll learn how to understand the culture of the team you're in, chart a course to a culture that will drive high performance, and know when it's time to call it quits.

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Join Centrifuse and partners from around south western Ohio as we celebrate Cincinnati's dynamic innovation community at this free meetup as part of Midwest House 2025.

​Food, drinks, and vibes will be amply provided.

​RSVP required but does not guarantee entry.

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As technology and artistic expression evolve, live music is no longer just about sound—it’s about creating deeply immersive environments that push the boundaries of traditional performances, evolving them into fully participatory fan experiences. This panel uncovers the latest innovations in concert design, our next generation of venues that bring people together, and explores how artists are harnessing new tools to create immersive journeys that amplify emotion, foster community, and transform the way we experience live entertainment.

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Details to Come

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Breakfast Tacos with our friends from Outdoorsy!!!

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Details to come

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Midwest House is bringing together Lightship, Grounded, and Outdoorsy to explore how marketplace innovation and electric vehicle development are addressing growing demand for sustainable adventure experiences while making outdoor travel more accessible to diverse audiences.

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​Moderator: Ambreen Tariq, Senior Program Director at the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable

​Panelists:

• ​Kai Twanmoh, Head of Brand Communications, AllTrails

• ​Molly Stoecklein, Head of PR and Communications, OnXmaps

• ​Camilo Barcenas, CEO, GOES Health

• ​Molly Morgan, Texas State Director and Associate Vice President, Trust for Public Land

• ​Toby Kraus, Co-Founder and CEO, Lightship

We’ve all heard the call to unplug and go outdoors. But are those two actions really at odds with each other? 

At a time when millions more are getting outdoors than ever before, technology has in many ways democratized access to the outdoors and empowered many newcomers to enjoy it in safer and in more sustainable ways.   

Today’s technology enables better access to online information about parks and trails, improving safety through GPS tracking and more accessible maps and navigation apps, growing and connecting communities through social media, and using tech to enhance outdoor gear and apparel, among other prominent use cases. 

But how can we manage the balance between increased accessibility and new technologies with our primal desire to unplug and connect to the natural world? 

In this 60-minute discussion led by Ambreen Tariq, Senior Program Director at the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable, we’ll explore how innovations in tech and information systems have transformed access to the Great Outdoors by making it more navigable, wearable, shareable, and more. Tariq will speak with the following leaders in the outdoor recreation industry to learn about how they view the role of tech in the outdoors and how they’ve used it to create new transformative experiences for those exploring the Great Outdoors. 

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Featuring Jennifer Wangler, The Right Place + Jennifer Tisdale, GRIMM

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Moderator: Brad Garmon, Senior Strategic Advisor and Executive Director, Michigan Outdoor Recreation Industry Office

​Panelists:

• ​Ian Solomon, Detroit Parks Coalition: Amplify Outside; Host of “Ian Outside” with PBS Great Lakes Now

• ​Stacy Bare,  Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, Award-winning Filmmaker; National Geographic Adventurer of the Year

• ​Sasha Dingle - Meditation Athlete/Teacher; Freeskiing World Tour Champion; Fulbright Fellow; Founder & Director, Mountain Mind Project; Rossignol Athlete

​Research has consistently shown the mental and emotional benefits of time spent recreating in nature and the physical benefits of moments of awe that can be found in nature. More states and communities are experimenting with “Nature Rx” programs and other ways to connect the dots between talent, productivity, and healthy outdoor access.  

​ In places like Detroit, Grand Rapids and the Upper Peninsula, Michigan leaders believe that targeted investments focused specifically on improving outdoor access, adding more adventure and discovering moments of awe can improve community wellbeing and health, attract and retain talent, and improve economic prosperity. That idea will serve as the spark for a conversation with leaders and innovators dedicated to connecting people in urban and rural areas with the health and economic benefits of being outside and physically active in nature, and working every day to improve the health of people and communities through outdoor access.

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Moderator

Justine Johnson, Chief Mobility Officer, State of Michigan 
Panelists 
Alissa Jenkins, Business Development, Detroit Manufacturing Systems
Tarani Duncan, Chief Product Officer, Bloom
Richard Phamdo, CEO, Voltaic Marine

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Moderator

Justine Johnson, Chief Mobility Officer, State of Michigan 

Panelists 
Alex Taylor, Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Orb Aerospace
Matt Benson, Director, Seamless Ventures & Operator, FLITE

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​Introduced by Brad Garmon, Senior Strategic Advisor and Executive Director, Michigan Outdoor Recreation Industry Office

​Moderator: Colin True – Writer. Producer, Host of THE ROCK FIGHT Podcast

​Panelists:

• ​Stacy Bare,  Friends of Grand Rapids Parks, Award-winning Filmmaker; National Geographic Adventurer of the Year

• ​Colin McCarthy – Commercial + Editorial Photographer / Director specializing in outdoor lifestyle, travel and documentary.

• ​Sasha Dingle - Meditation Athlete/Teacher; Freeskiing World Tour Champion; Fulbright Fellow; Founder & Director, Mountain Mind Project; Rossignol Athlete

​ Does Michigan have what it takes to be an Outdoor Recreation leader? Join THE ROCK FIGHT Podcast to hear stories from a diverse collection of outdoor professionals about the trip they took across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula this February to explore the offerings including backcountry skiing at Mount Bohemia (#2 on USA Today’s 10 Best Ski Resorts list) to Ice Climbing with world-class mountaineers at the Michigan Ice Fest in Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore and snowmobiling the Lake Superior shoreline.

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featuring:

Tu Le, Managing Director - Sino Auto Insights

Ed Kim, President & Chief Analyst - AutoPacific

Steve Levine, Editor - The Electric

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Details to come

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Bilal Hammoud, Executive Director of the Arab American Chamber of Commerce

and

Ben Marchionna, State of Michigan’s Chief Growth Officer

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Dug Song, co-founder & co-chair, michigan founders fund

Rishi Moudgil, executive director, michigan founders fund

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Featuring Jaime Diaz, Cintra | David Neal, Mozee | Michael Woon, Retrospect | Michael Kelly, Mozee

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Details to come

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Navigating the fundraising journey is one of the greatest challenges for early-stage startups, especially in today’s unpredictable funding environment. In this panel, investors and founders will explore the pathways and challenges for Michigan entrepreneurs. The conversation will also touch on the impacts of a difficult fundraising environment over the past two years, the opportunities for 2025, and how Michigan’s unique ecosystem is positioning itself to help entrepreneurs thrive. 

Moderator: Mike Flanagan, Vice President, Capital Programs at Ann Arbor SPARK

Panelists: Crystal Brown - CEO & Co-Founder of CircNova

Josef Hjelmaker - CEO and Founder Electric Outdoors

Jim Tenzillo - Michigan Outdoor Innovation Fund & Venture Next

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Featuring:

• Riley Hall: General Manager, Newlab Detroit

• Jack Gray: Head of Industry Partnerships, Newlab Detroit

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Create your own piece of Detroit magic during this unique jewelry making activation that uses remnants from fallen Detroit graffiti to create one-of-a-kind wearable art.

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Innovation drives productivity and growth when fully integrated with a region's leading industries. Michigan boasts a robust set of innovation assets, from research-intensive universities and entrepreneurs creating tech-based startups, to the funders who invest in them and the many government, nonprofit, and industry actors supporting the broader innovation ecosystem. It's an exciting time to be in Michigan!

Keynote speaker Larry Peterson will share insights on what makes innovative communities thrive. He and expert panelists will discuss efforts to fully realize Michigan's innovation potential and drive productivity and prosperity for all.

Keynote: Larry Peterson, Executive Director and Co-Founder, Texas Foundation for Innovative Communities

Panel:

Moderator: Saeed Khan, Associate Professor at Wayne State University,

• Panelists:

o Mike Psarouthakas, Executive Director of Impact Investments & Strategic Alliances at the University of Michigan

o Brad King, CEO, Orbion Space Technology

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Featuring Rebel Nell Bells Brewery, Carhartt, Via313 Pizza, and all your favorite Michiganders.

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Join the Michigan Economic Development Corporation at Inn Cahoots during SXSW 2025 for an exclusive keynote panel showcasing how Michigan’s bold, creative energy is driving real opportunities.

Celebrate Michigan Day with us and discover how the state’s thriving Creator Culture has helped innovators, entrepreneurs, and artists turn their passions into careers—and how it can help you do the same. Michigan is the place where originality meets opportunity.

Our guests — Rebel Nell’s Amy Peterson, performing artist Stoop Lee and restaurateur and small biz trailblazer Ping Ho — will give us the creator’s take on #MichiganCool. Don’t just hear about it—see for yourself why Michigan is the ultimate destination to innovate, create and originate.

Line-Up:

Moderator: Hilary Doe – Chief Growth and Marketing Officer – Michigan Economic Development Corporation

Amy Peterson – CEO & Founder – Rebel Nell

Ping Ho – CEO & Founder – Marrow, The Royce & Mink

Stoop Lee – Performing Arist

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​Michigan presents Detroit-raised alt-R&B icon, JMSN. An influential figure in the contemporary soul and alternative music scenes, the sought-after performer and producer brings his unforgettable stage presence to longtime fans and new converts at Michigan Day at SXSW.

​Join us, not only for a captivating performance with a special opening set from artist, Stoop Lee, but also an immersive experience that highlights Michigan’s thriving creator economy and bold innovation. Connect with visionary entrepreneurs, artists, and leaders shaping the future of creativity in Michigan.

​​Come experience why You Can in Michigan—where originality thrives, and big ideas come to life.

​Doors Open 7 PM | JMSN ​10 PM | Free | SXSW Badge Not Required | RSVP Does Not Guarantee Admission