Alumni Engagement

Entrepreneurial journeys are meant to last a lifetime. Support from the Zell Lurie Institute continues well beyond graduation day. Discover the resources, events, networks, tools, and educational opportunities that await University of Michigan alumni entrepreneurs.

Zell Lurie Institute Alumni Entrepreneurs University of Michigan Ross

Alumni Programs

Educational entrepreneurial programs are available to U-M alumni throughout the year. In partnership with Michigan Ross faculty, notable U-M alumni, and successful entrepreneurs, our alumni programs continue to build upon the entrepreneurial foundations you gained while attending U-M. Take part in a series or select a session that fits your current needs.

Talk the Walk Webinars + Workshops

Presented by peer U-M alumni, Talk the Walk webinars and workshops take real-life lessons and apply them to your new venture. Session content is broadly relevant to entrepreneurs across industry and discipline. Facilitators share their expertise to support fellow founders with topic specific presentations, followed by interactive discussions and Q&As with attendees. Slide decks are available on U-M Canvas.

Zell Lurie Institute Alumni Entrepreneurs Detroit University of Michigan Ross

Alumni Events

Entrepreneurial events connect University of Michigan alumni locally, nationally, and internationally. From entrepreneurial conferences to startup competitions, ZLI alumni events engage entrepreneurs at every stage. If you’re not receiving invitations to events in your area, please take a few minutes to update your contact information.

Zell Alumni Summit

The annual flagship event for alumni is our Zell Alumni Summit. This application-based program provides dynamic content and tools to support personal and professional growth at every stage of business development. In addition, this conference offers custom coaching and opportunities for alumni to hone their pitches for potential future investors. In 2019, participants represented 9 states and 2 countries. 

This two-day event is designed to support U-M alumni entrepreneurs in achieving startup growth, by making resources and connections available. Broaden your networks and develop new strategies for taking your businesses to the next level at this specialized summit. The Zell Alumni Summit includes high-bandwidth workshops and facilitated group discussions on the topics of greatest importance to entrepreneurs, program highlights include: 

  • ​Custom 1:1 coaching sessions with seasoned entrepreneurs, investors, and attorneys
  • Workshops and interactive breakout sessions
  • Immersive treks into local Detroit and Ann Arbor entrepreneurial ecosystems
  • Networking events exclusively for founders
Zell Lurie Institute Alumni Entrepreneurs Summit University of Michigan Ross

Alumni Network

The entrepreneurial journey is best when shared with fellow founders. ZLI alumni entrepreneurs are an immense network of professional contacts—all with whom you already have two things in common. Our aim is to be a resource for entrepreneurs to network and benefit from the experience, connections, and expertise of U-M. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs and investors through our online platforms and in-person opportunities.

AAUM Zell Lurie Entrepreneurs Online Community Group

A University of Michigan only peer-to-peer platform to introduce yourself to nearly 600 alumni entrepreneurs and share opportunities, or just check out the conversations. The Zell Lurie Entrepreneurs group in Alumni Online Communities is the place where Wolverines come together for advice, information, camaraderie, and sharing the ups and downs of starting their own business. Jump in and keep the conversation going today. In this community, you can connect with other alumni leaders around venture creation and growth and other topical discussions. This is a place where you’ll be able to give/get help, and so much more as it relates to being an entrepreneur.

Stay Connected

The team at the Zell Lurie Institute is here to support all U-M alumni regardless of their business stage. Whether you have a startup idea or a growing business, our programs and events are here to foster your continued growth. Our alumni offerings continue to expand to meet the needs of today’s entrepreneurs.

Virtual activities have historically been part of our ZLI Alumni program offerings in order to maintain a high level of engagement with the global U-M alumni network. As we continue to expand our offerings, there will be additional options for remote participation. Please connect with our alumni program manager, Drea Shipp-Caldwell, with questions or club opportunities.