ANN ARBOR — Ann Arbor’s technology community will host the inaugural A2 Tech Trek on Friday, June 12, from 3 to 7 p.m.
A2 Tech Trek, a free event, features open houses at downtown Ann Arbor’s technology companies and organizations. Ann Arbor Spark, Washtenaw County’s economic development agency, is sponsoring the event, with support from the Ann Arbor-Ypsilanti SmartZone.
Organizers say each stop on the trek will create a fun, educational experience that reflects the company’s unique culture and demonstrates its product or service. Those on the tour will also enjoy refreshments, prizes, t-shirts, and giveaways.
“The tech sector is growing rapidly in Ann Arbor,” said Rich Sheridan, CEO of the software development and developer training shop Menlo Innovations. “If you are a part of it, this is not news. For others, there is likely a curiosity about what it is, what it looks like, and where is it heading. Tech Trek is an opportunity to step inside and see these organizations at work, ask questions, and develop a better understanding of what all this might mean for our town’s future.”
Participants will start at one of three check-in locations – Menlo Innovations, MLive Media Group, and Ann Arbor Spark – where they can pick up a map and begin the A2 Tech Trek. The A2 Tech Trek features more than two dozen technology businesses and incubators, including Barracuda Networks, Desai Accelerator, Duo Security, Google, Nutshell, Pillar Technology, and Seelio.
“Downtown Ann Arbor’s technology ecosystem is exciting, and something that our community should be part of and proud of,” said Paul Krutko, Spark president and CEO. “The companies and organizations participating in A2 Tech Trek are creating jobs, attracting talent, and eager to welcome the public and show off why the best and brightest want to be part of creating these unique innovations being developed in Ann Arbor.”
Spark partners include the University of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University, Washtenaw Community College, Washtenaw County, Livingston County, the Ann Arbor-Ypsilanti SmartZone, Washtenaw County Michigan Works, the City of Ann Arbor, Bank of Ann Arbor and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
More at www.AnnArborUSA.org.