From AA Spark
Get ready to embark on the ultimate tech adventure! Tech Trek is back – bigger and bolder – and it’s time to gear up for an unforgettable day in downtown Ann Arbor. Whether you’re already signed up and don’t want to miss a single beat, or you’re still on the fence (we highly encourage jumping in!), there’s so much to explore and experience at this iconic event.
Tech Trek, the cornerstone of a2Tech360, will have you immersed in cutting-edge technologies, from jaw-dropping robotics and next-gen game development to self-driving shuttles and mind-blowing medical breakthroughs.
And it’s not just about tech – it’s a street party. Picture delicious bites, music, and lively conversations with fellow tech lovers and innovators, all while you discover the innovations shaping the future of our region.
So, what exactly should you look out for? Whether you’re here for the networking, the demos, or job hunting, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a list of the top 10 things you won’t want to miss at Tech Trek:
- T-shirts + Swag: Tickets to this event include our signature Tech Trek T-shirt and the most enviable swag around – think dog toys, koozies, water bottles, footballs and more! Get here early because it’s all while supplies last…
- Food Trucks: Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to indulge in some of the delicious offerings Ann Arbor has to offer. With four food vendors from Washtenaw Community College’s entrepreneurial program – Blue Lemon Thai, Chow Hall, Corned Beef Queen, and Marupo’s Eats – everyone will find a dish they love or discover a new favorite! And don’t forget Mani Osteria, Isalita, and Jerusalem Garden are right here on Liberty. Eat up!
- Whova Event App: Download the interactive a2tech360 app hosted on Whova to get the most out of your trek. You can check out which companies will be exhibiting and plan your visit ahead of time or pinpoint where you want to go using the map. Zoom in on Liberty St. to get a detailed view and zoom out to see which companies are opening their offices.
- Open Offices: Speaking of open offices – hop on a Boober Tours pedicab and cruise your way to off-site Tech Trek stops, where companies are rolling out the red carpet just for you. Each location offers its own unique and exciting event, including a special activity through the Whova app for your chance to win a reMarkable 2! So, buckle up for a fun, personalized adventure across Ann Arbor’s tech scene:
- Step right up to Censys for a tech-themed carnival! Enjoy fresh popcorn, face painting, and fun mini-games while you explore all they have to offer.
- Head over to Bamboo to party with Midwest House for DJs & Desserts! Enjoy live music on their rooftop, indulge in sweet treats, and take part in an interactive video exhibit that dives into tech and innovation in Ann Arbor. Don’t miss the Nucleate Life Sciences Career Fair happening at Bamboo from 10am to 4pm.
- Check out Skyspecs’ inspection truck and get up close with a drone demonstration! They’ll also have cool wind turbine activities, fun games, and snacks in their parking lot for a hands-on tech experience.
- Get an inside look at one of Ann Arbor’s coolest coworking spaces with Cahoots’ exclusive tours throughout Tech Trek!
- And right off the street fair is Menlo Innovations! They’ll be offering scheduled tours of their office to show you what makes their workplace so unique. Sign up at their booth on Liberty St.
- Hiring Companies: Looking for your next career move? More than 25 companies at this year’s Tech Trek are hiring! Discover which companies are hiring in the Whova app or look for the pink suitcases next to their tent number. Want to get a jumpstart on your job search? Don’t miss Amy Cell Talent’s partner event, Spark Your Elevator Pitch: Crafting a Powerful Introduction. It’s free, and you can register right here to get your pitch polished and ready to impress!
- Meet the Minds Behind the Magic: Shake hands with founders from some of the most innovative startups around—many of which were born right here in Ann Arbor, often with roots at the University of Michigan. From early-stage ventures to scaling businesses, these companies are making waves, and Ann Arbor SPARK has been there to help them grow every step of the way. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, advice, or connections, this is your chance to get up close and personal with the visionary entrepreneurs shaping the future!
- Mobility Company Assets: Our city is a hub for cutting-edge transportation tech! From autonomous robots and electric race cars to drones and e-cargo bikes, there’s no shortage of awe-inspiring demos. Come see how Ann Arbor is driving the future of transportation!
- Powered by Navitas! By ditching diesel and opting for cleaner electricity, Tech Trek is cutting down on emissions and helping make the event more eco-friendly. It’s all part of the effort to reduce our environmental impact while keeping the tech excitement going strong. Thanks to Navitas, we’re showcasing how innovation can be sustainable, one electric-powered event at a time!
- Visit Kapnick Insurance, this year’s Tech Trek Visionary Sponsor! Kapnick is dedicated to supporting innovation by helping businesses manage risks in industries such as real estate, construction, manufacturing, technology, life sciences, and cyber. Their cutting-edge solutions ensure companies can thrive even when facing daily challenges. Stop by to learn how Kapnick is protecting the future of innovation!
- After Party: Wrap up a2Tech360 in style at the Ann Arbor Hands-On Museum! Join us for a fun evening of networking, celebration, and interactive exhibits, all while enjoying appetizers and drinks. This free, 21+ event is the perfect way to celebrate the conclusion of Tech Trek. Be sure to reserve your tickets here.
We can’t wait for you to join the Tech Trek excitement this year! If you haven’t signed up yet, be sure to grab your free spot here and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
See you on Friday, September 27!
