Pure Bred English Bulldog Puppies from a trusted breeder. We fly them with a pet nanny anywhere in the USA.

English Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Ann Arbor, MI

When it comes to buying purebred puppies, there are a lot of breeds and questions to consider. Do you want an outdoor pup or one that spends its time indoors? Are you looking for a tiny dog you can take with you everywhere or a larger breed you can lay with on the couch? Of all the purebred puppies to choose from, none are quite like the English bulldog. Their sourmug face might not be for everyone, but if your ideal version of man's best friend is a snorty, stocky ball of wrinkles that loves to lounge, a bulldog could be perfect for you.

Bulldogs are beloved for their unique looks and charming personalities. They have strong reputations for being loyal companions, making them incredibly popular for families and individuals alike. There's just something about their squishy face and bowling ball body that makes you want to love and cuddle them forever. Unfortunately, finding a purebred English bulldog from your local shelter is like searching for a needle in a haystack. When you factor in the fact that many English bulldog breeders are less-than-reputable, finding the right bulldog puppies for adoption in Ann Arbor, MI can be challenging.

If you've been searching high and low for purebred English bulldog puppies from a responsible breeder, don't give up hope. Your search may be coming to an end sooner than you think with the help of IrresistiBulls.

English Bulldog Puppies Ann Arbor, MI

Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Ann Arbor, MI from an Ethical Breeder You Can Trust

IrresistiBulls was born out of love for the English bulldog who first graced our world, Bruiser. It became our mission to spread the joy he afforded us to families around the nation. We pride ourselves on being more than just breeders; we're a lifelong support system for our families. Unlike many competitors, we stay in touch with each family that purchases from us. We make it a point to offer expert tips and tricks for any challenges that may arise, which can help save you time, money, and a trip to the vet.

The IrresistiBulls Difference

At IrresistiBulls, breeding English bulldogs isn't just a career choice. It's a passion. When you welcome a bulldog pup from our program into your home, you're not just getting any dog - you're gaining a remarkable English bulldog with a documented lineage of health, intelligence, and obedience - as well as all the hallmark traits that make English bulldogs beloved. While our dogs come from champion lines, they're perfect for families, provide unconditional love, and will probably be your new dinner bell, too.

Trial

It's Science, Not Trial and Error

Our cherished bulldog, Bruiser, was a unique boy. He stood out from other dogs. Like Bruiser, IrresistiBulls stands out from other breeders because we base our breeding practices on science and careful consideration.

Our goal isn't just about selling English bulldog puppies. It's to ensure that every puppy we breed excels in health, temperament, intelligence, and obedience. We don't rely on trial and error, which often yields more errors than successes. Extensive research underpins our methods to guarantee the best possible outcomes. Our dedication extends not only to the families welcoming our puppies into their homes but also to the well-being and quality of life of the puppies themselves. That's the IrresistiBulls difference.

Sire

Sire and Dams Bred for Excellence

When it comes to longevity, health, temperament, and intelligence, it all starts with the dam and sire. That's why our English bulldog sires and dams are carefully selected for their excellence, champion bloodlines, and genetic traits. We're not your run-of-the-mill English bulldog breeders in South Carolina; we've perfected our method. We genuinely care and view every puppy we bring into the world as a part of our extended family. Each one of our dogs is truly the "cream of the crop," guaranteed to pass on greatness to their offspring.

Why Do So Many Bulldog Lovers Choose IrresistiBulls?

Simply put, we truly care about our bulldogs and the families that build cherished memories with them. We're incredibly thankful to have worked with so many amazing clients who trust our process and value our commitment to the health and wellness of our bulldog pups. Our wonderful clients recommend their friends and family members to IrresistiBulls because we prioritize:

Lineage

World-Class Bulldog Lineage from Around the World

When you buy from IrresistiBulls, you can rest easy knowing you're getting the best of the best. We take pride in ethically breeding our puppies by using champion bloodlines from different parts of the world. By doing this, we reduce the chances of our puppies inheriting common health issues that can affect English bulldogs. Our puppies come from well-regarded show dog ancestry from countries like Ukraine, Spain, and Russia, to name a few.

Around

World-Class Bulldog Lineage from Around the World

We meticulously breed for highly coveted traits and take proactive measures to limit traits that can lead to health conditions in your puppy. Our efforts have successfully eliminated issues such as corkscrew tails and narrow nares, ensuring a worry-free experience for our puppies and their new families.

An Improved Process of Breeding Purebred English Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Ann Arbor, MI

Breeding any dog, especially English bulldogs, poses health concerns. We make every effort to breed English bulldogs with the desirable genetic traits while working to eliminate those that could result in health problems. The key is to avoid breeding puppies that are closely related and could potentially have genetic abnormalities.

Unfortunately, some breeders are either irresponsible or lack an understanding of the complexities involved in producing healthy English bulldog lines. We only breed dogs with the best-quality lineages and never take unnecessary risks by breeding dogs with overly similar ancestry. This approach safeguards not only our business but also the well-being of the puppies and the families who welcome them into their homes.

You're Not Just Our Client. You're Our Family.

When you bring one of our puppies for sale into your home, you become a permanent part of our extended family.

I'm Looking for Bulldog Puppies Near Me in Ann Arbor, MI. How Do I Get Started with IrresistiBulls?

Our IrresistiBulls are usually reserved before the litter is even born. Securing a spot on our reservation list is essential once we confirm a pregnancy. While we strive to honor all reservations, sometimes we have to leave it to nature, so there are no guarantees regarding litter arrivals and viability. However, once you've reserved your new English bulldog puppy, we'll keep you informed every step of the way. As English bulldog lovers, we understand your excitement about welcoming a new addition to your family. That's why we do our best to minimize the uncertainties and challenges that can arise during the breeding process.

 Ann Arbor Bulldogs Ann Arbor, MI
Puppy

Availabull Puppy Pricing

All English bulldog puppies for sale are priced at $4,500.00. Deposits are $500.00. Please visit our website to learn more and see our selection of upcoming Availabulls. When you're ready to put down a deposit on the bulldog pup of your choice, all you have to do is email, call, or text us, and we'll follow up from there.

An English Bulldog Breeders' Guide to Bringing Home Your Furry Friend

Buying English bulldog puppies for sale in Ann Arbor, MI is a joyful and exciting experience. Whether you're a single pup parent or have a family with children, you'll love your new bulldogs' affectionate, loyal nature and will laugh out loud at their quirky attitude. However, bringing a bulldog puppy home necessitates careful forethought and organization to guarantee a seamless adjustment for both you and your new furry pal. Keep these essential tips in mind when it's time to bring your bulldog puppy to your den.

Safe Space

Create a Safe Space

Choose a cozy and secure spot in your home for your bulldog puppy to relax and feel at ease. You might want to opt for a crate or a puppy playpen to create a snug and den-like space for them.

Supplies

Stock Up on Supplies

Gather essential supplies such as water and food, nutritious and high-quality puppy food, a leash and a collar, bedding, chew toys, and grooming items. If you're worried about overdoing it, don't fret. It's better to be overprepared and have extra than to be underprepared and need more supplies.

Puppy-Proof

Puppy-Proof Your Property

It's important to get your home ready for your new bulldog puppies before they arrive. English bulldog pups are inquisitive by nature and love to play, so expect some high-energy bonding early on. Clear away any small objects that could be swallowed, hide electrical cords, and remove any toxic plants to keep them safe.

quotes

Schedule a Follow-Up Visit at Your Vet

Bulldog puppies for adoption in Ann Arbor, MI from IrresistiBulls arrive at your home having had all the proper shots and worming medicines required. However, you should already have a follow-up visit scheduled with your vet before your new family member arrives. Doing so will help you and your vet get on the same page regarding deworming, vaccinations, and preventative healthcare plans.

 Cute Puppies For Sale Ann Arbor, MI

Make the Most Out of Our Puppy Starter Kits

In the first few days, weeks, and sometimes months, it can be challenging to adjust to having a new puppy at home. Puppies are quite complex, and just like with any newborn, having reliable guidance and essential tools isn't just a luxury - it alleviates stress and makes the process of welcoming and training the puppy much smoother. At IrresistiBulls, we offer a puppy starter kit to provide you with the necessary information on puppy care, the resources you may require along the way, and, of course, an assortment of toys to enrich the bonding experience with your new furry friend.

 Healthy Bulldog Pups Ann Arbor, MI
Settling

Settling In After the First Few Days

During the initial days following the arrival of your bulldog puppy, it's essential to focus on establishing a nurturing environment and a consistent routine to build a strong bond. Here are some helpful tips to help your puppy settle in smoothly.

Routine

Get a Routine Going ASAP

If there's one thing bulldogs thrive on (besides nutritious, yummy food), it's a routine. After you've been with your new bulldog puppy for a few days, try creating a schedule. Plan out time for eating, bathroom breaks, training, and playing. We should note that it's important to create a schedule that can be incorporated into your family's routine. You don't need to rearrange your life, but you will need to cater to your new doggo to an extent.

Remain Calm

Try to Remain Calm and Patient

If you had to move to a new home when you were very young, you probably have an idea how a bulldog puppy would feel, too. It can be overwhelming - not just for your bulldog, but for you too. That's why you should try to be as patient and calm as possible while your new addition gets acclimated to their new surroundings.

Whether you're an experienced dog owner or a newcomer, bringing your puppy into their new home should be nothing but a joyful occasion. At IrresistiBulls, we're happy to help make sure you don't go home in a tizzy. That way, you can focus on spending time with your bulldog puppy and creating a loving home from day one.

Top 5 Reasons to Consider English Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Ann Arbor, MI

Bulldogs are undeniably one of the most adored dog breeds in the world. Their wrinkled faces, stocky bods, and fun personalities have endeared them to dog lovers everywhere. Have you ever met an English bulldog owner who didn't love their pup? We haven't. If you're still on the fence about buying a bulldog puppy for you or your family, you may want to re-think that stance after reading these reasons.

Like, seriously adorable. The wrinkles. The jowls. The saggy eyes. Bulldogs epitomize "Aww, how cute!" especially when they're young. There's just something about grabbing a big wrinkly head and planting a huge kiss right in the middle.

 Playful Bulldog Images Ann Arbor, MI

Generally speaking, bulldogs are great pets for kids. That's because they're incredibly calm, fiercely devoted, and, well, lazy. A screaming, tugging child doesn't faze them. They'll even let little ones dress them in cowboy hats and tutus without batting an eye.

 Family-friendly Bulldogs Ann Arbor, MI

Owning a bulldog means there's rarely a dull moment in your home. Whether they're snoring so loud it puts your sleep apnea to shame or interrupting your thoughts with a little flatulence, English bulldogs will make you smile even if you're in a bad mood.

 Bulldog Puppies In Ann Arbor Ann Arbor, MI

Make no mistake - bulldogs must get exercise to remain healthy. However, when given the choice, many bulldogs would rather curl up on the couch with you than go for a multi-mile run.

English Bulldog Puppies Ann Arbor, MI

If you think breeds like border collies get all the credit for being smart, think again. Have you ever seen a border collie ride a skateboard or surf a wave? Probably not - but bulldogs are known for such feats. That's due in part to their low center of gravity, but it's mostly because bulldogs are so cool.

 Ann Arbor Bulldogs Ann Arbor, MI

The Ethical, Easy Choice for Bulldog Puppies for Sale in Ann Arbor, MI

When you trust IrresistiBulls as your bulldog puppy breeder, we believe it's our privilege and duty to provide you with a healthy, happy dog. Every English bulldog we ship in the U.S. is both a part of our beloved Bruiser and also a new part of your family's heart. At the end of the day, our goal is for you to discover your new companion, family mascot, or hot mess without having to worry about shady practices or inconvenient logistics.

We know you'll fall in love as soon as you lay eyes on your new IrresistiBull, just like we did when Bruiser blessed our lives. Contact our office today to learn more about what separates us from other breeders and how we can make your English bulldog ownership dreams come true.

What Our Clients Are Saying

Interested in Joining Our Family, Reserve Your Puppy Today

Latest News in Ann Arbor, MI

See where Michigan medical schools ranked nationally per U.S. News

Multiple Michigan universities rank among the nation’s top medical schools with a couple of major caveats, according to U.S. News and World Report.Rankings for both research and primary care schools were released by the national publication on Tuesday, April 8.Medical schools for the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and Michigan State University were not listed among the top tiers overall...

Multiple Michigan universities rank among the nation’s top medical schools with a couple of major caveats, according to U.S. News and World Report.

Rankings for both research and primary care schools were released by the national publication on Tuesday, April 8.

Medical schools for the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and Michigan State University were not listed among the top tiers overall, but both schools appeared on lists ranking the most graduates practicing in primary care and in underserved and rural areas.

Not all major Michigan universities were included in the 2024 rankings, as well. About 20% of the top 100 medical schools in both research and primary care rankings as of 2022-23 declined to participate in the statistical survey for this year’s placements.

Read more: University of Michigan Medical School pulls out of U.S. News rankings

Of the medical research schools overall, there were 16 ranked in the top tier or tier 1.

Wayne State University was listed among tier 2, an improvement from last year’s ranking, while Central Michigan University and Oakland University (Beaumont) were listed as tier 3.

There were also a top 16 for tier 1 primary care medical schools. CMU was listed as tier 3, Wayne State at tier 3 and Oakland at tier 4.

Michigan State University’s College of Osteopathic Medicine ranked No. 2 among schools with the most graduates practicing in primary care, which is 12 rankings higher than last year. Meanwhile, MSU’s College of Human Medicine ranked No. 50, or 10 rankings lower, in that same category, followed by CMU at No. 52, Wayne State tied at No. 85, and Western Michigan University tied at No. 97.

The University of Michigan-Ann Arbor ranked No. 119 among schools with the most graduates practicing in primary care. Oakland ranked No. 131 out of 170.

Central Michigan had the most graduates working in rural areas at No. 20, followed by MSU’s College of Osteopathic Medicine at No. 57, Oakland at No. 79, UM-Ann Arbor at No. 82, WMU tied at No. 84, and Wayne State at No. 93.

MSU’s College of Osteopathic Medicine ranked at No. 3 for graduates practicing in medically underserved areas. Central Michigan ranked No. 17, Wayne State No. 3, MSU’s College of Human Medicine at No. 40, UM at No. 60 and Oakland at No. 83.

Some key details for both UM and MSU’s colleges of osteopathic and human medicine were not listed with U.S. News.

Details for the other Michigan medical schools, including in-state, full-time tuition, enrollment and acceptance rates, were listed as follows:

CMU’s College of Medicine

Full-time tuition: $46,150

Enrollment: 416

Acceptance rate: 3.6%

Faculty-student ratio: 0.2 to 1

Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine

Full-time tuition: $60,278

Enrollment: 516

Acceptance rate: 5.8%

Faculty-student ratio: 1.2 to 1

Wayne State University School of Medicine

Full-time tuition: $39,975

Enrollment: 1,229

Acceptance rate: 7.6%

Faculty-student ratio: 0.7 to 1

If you would like more reporting like this delivered free to your inbox, click here and signup for our weekly newsletter: Michigan Schools.

MI Local: Ann Arbor songwriter Lauren Blackford live at WDET; new music from JR JR + more

MI Local is the show where you can literally meet the local music scene! Each week, I’ll premiere new tracks from artists based all around metro Detroit and the greater Michigan music scene, but I love having the opportunity to invite songwriters into the studio for interviews!Ann Arbor based singer-songwriter Lauren Blackford made the drive over to Detroit this Tuesday to visit the studio and talk about her recent EP, &ldqu...

MI Local is the show where you can literally meet the local music scene! Each week, I’ll premiere new tracks from artists based all around metro Detroit and the greater Michigan music scene, but I love having the opportunity to invite songwriters into the studio for interviews!

Ann Arbor based singer-songwriter Lauren Blackford made the drive over to Detroit this Tuesday to visit the studio and talk about her recent EP, “The Loft Sessions” — the stripped down acoustic renditions of her debut EP, “One Too Many Times.”

Blackford is an up-and-coming singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who began performing around the scene a little more than a year ago. Her effervescent blend of pop and indie-rock ballads produce tracks that bounce from pared back acoustic strums to glitzy electronic flourishes, all while bolstering dulcet vocals that soar into punchy choruses threaded with sweet melodies sure to get stuck in your head for weeks.

Blackford studied music production while in high school and taught herself guitar after graduation. Back in February, she performed an album release party for her debut at Ziggy’s in Ypsilanti, and just this week she’s celebrating her latest release, “The Loft Sessions.”

Blackford joined MI Local in-studio to perform one of her songs live for WDET listeners, titled “Reset Button.”

She told listeners about how her drive to teach herself not only how to play guitar, but also how to start DIY at-home production, to begin recording the songs for her debut release. She’s been singing and playing music (starting on piano) for much of her life, and started writing songs as a teenager.

Now, fresh out of college, she’s essentially hit the ground running when it comes to making her way into the Michigan music scene.

Along with sharing stories behind some of her candid, heart-aching lyrics, Blackford also shared the anecdote behind the titular “loft” where she recorded songs from “One Too Many Times,live. Speaking of live, WDET listeners were also treated to a live performance by Blackford, in-studio, during MI Local, performing “A Good Thing,” on acoustic guitar.

Blackford will be headlining The Blind Pig in her hometown of Ann Arbor on Thursday, April 24; she’ll also be performing, as Madonna, at the annual Detroit X Detroit showcase happening on Saturday, April 26, at the Loving Touch in Ferndale.

Along with this feature, we played the latest from the Detroit/LA-based indie-pop duo JR JR, and the newest song from Detroit/LA-based pop-singer-songwriter Chloe Moriondo.

We also explored some more eclectic flavors, including some new electro-space-jazz musings from Justin Walter, and the latest from Detroit-based electronica artist Darren Shelton.

Plus, we sampled some folk songs from Detroit’s own Mike Ward, who performs this Saturday at the Trinity House, and a new song from Ann Arbor folk singer Ananda Murari.

Oh, and if you stick around for the whole show, you’ll find out what my favorite White Stripes song is…

MI Local Playlist for April 8, 2025

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These are the top engineering schools in Michigan, U.S. News ranking says

One Michigan university has been pushed out of the top 10 graduate engineering schools in the country, according to the latest rankings from U.S. News and World Report.Several others, meanwhile, retained places on the lengthy list overall.The 2025 rankings for best graduate schools in several disciplines were released on Tuesday, April 8, and the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor was ranked at No. 11 in...

One Michigan university has been pushed out of the top 10 graduate engineering schools in the country, according to the latest rankings from U.S. News and World Report.

Several others, meanwhile, retained places on the lengthy list overall.

The 2025 rankings for best graduate schools in several disciplines were released on Tuesday, April 8, and the University of Michigan-Ann Arbor was ranked at No. 11 in engineering.

The Ann Arbor engineering school fell two spots from its previous rank last year.

However, it was the only Michigan university’s engineering school to make the top 50.

Michigan State University was tied with four other institutions at No. 59. Elsewhere, Michigan Technological University was No. 89, and the University of Michigan-Dearborn was No. 166.

Lawrence Technological University, Oakland University, University of Detroit Mercy and Western Michigan University were ranked between Nos. 181 and 198.

Read more: See where Michigan medical schools ranked nationally

Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Stanford University and University of California, Berkley, and Georgia Institute of Technology were Nos. 1 to 4.

Despite being pushed out of the top 10, UM-Ann Arbor placed high in the following engineering areas:

U.S. News engineering rankings rate schools’ research activity, faculty resources, academic achievements of entering students and assessments by other top schools and employers.

The methodology is separate from other U.S. News rankings, including undergraduate and online master’s degrees in engineering.

From fall 2024 to early 2025, 222 engineering schools that grant doctoral degrees were surveyed, and 196 responded with data. U.S. News scored them on nine factors with research activity making up 50%.

The following are some of the other details collected from universities in Michigan.

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor

Tuition: $32,486 (in state)

Enrollment: 4,109

Acceptance rate: 27.4%

Student-faculty ratio: 4.6 to 1

Rankings: No. 11 overall, top 10 in several disciplines

Michigan State University

Tuition: $992 per credit (in state)

Enrollment: 938

Acceptance rate: 22.2%

Student-faculty ratio: 2.9 to 1

Michigan Technological University

Tuition: $1,516 per credit (in and out of state)

Enrollment: 813

Acceptance rate: 26.8%

Student-faculty ratio: 1.4 to 1

University of Michigan-Dearborn

Tuition: $1,154 per credit (in state)

Enrollment: 1,241

Acceptance rate: 60.8%

Student-faculty ratio: 1.2 to 1

Lawrence Technological University

Tuition: $20,692

Enrollment: 394

Acceptance rate: 49.8%

Student-faculty ratio: 0 to 1

Oakland University

Tuition: $915 per credit (in state)

Enrollment: 592

Acceptance rate: 90.8%

Student-faculty ratio: 1.4 to 1

University of Detroit Mercy

Tuition: $918 per credit

Enrollment: 106

Acceptance rate: 85.3%

Student-faculty ratio: 0.3 to 1

Western Michigan University

Tuition: $19.154 (in state)

Enrollment: 283

Acceptance rate: 49.8%

Student-faculty ratio: 0.8 to 1

If you would like more reporting like this delivered free to your inbox, click here and signup for our weekly newsletter: Michigan Schools.

University of Michigan’s chief diversity officer is leaving for new job following DEI cuts

ANN ARBOR, MI - The University of Michigan’s chief diversity officer is leaving for a new position nearly two weeks after the institution made some drastic cuts to its DEI offices and programs. Tabbye Chavous is set to become the new executive director for the American Educational Research Association, effective Aug. 11. It is currently unclear when her last day is with U...

ANN ARBOR, MI - The University of Michigan’s chief diversity officer is leaving for a new position nearly two weeks after the institution made some drastic cuts to its DEI offices and programs.

Tabbye Chavous is set to become the new executive director for the American Educational Research Association, effective Aug. 11. It is currently unclear when her last day is with UM.

She began her role as chief diversity officer and vice provost for equity and inclusion in August 2022 for a five-year renewable term. She succeeded Robert Sellers, who was UM’s first diversity officer.

Chavous is also a professor of education and psychology at UM and has had other roles over the years, including serving as the director of the National Center for Institutional Diversity.

Chavous’ decision comes shortly after UM ended its DEI 2.0 Strategic Plan and shuttered its Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and Office for Health Equity and Inclusion on March 27. These changes come as universities face funding threats around DEI under President Donald Trump’s administration.

UM shared it plans to “shift resources to increase investments in student-facing programs,” like financial aid, mental health resources and pre-professional counseling in the coming months.

Read more: What we know so far about the University of Michigan axing DEI initiatives

Chavous could not be reached for comment on Tuesday.

“We are delighted to welcome Dr. Chavous as the next leader of AERA,” said AERA President Janelle Scott in a statement on April 7. “Her deep expertise in education research and unwavering commitment to promoting evidence-based policies and practices make her the ideal choice to guide our organization toward continued growth and success.”

Scott said she is “confident” Chavous will expand its impact and “drive meaningful change,” especially “at a time when support for high-quality research is key to advancing education” in the United States.

Related: University of Michigan decision to curb DEI is sharp turn after decade of work

Chavous is taking over the position from Felice Levine, who served as executive director since 2002.

In the statement, Chavous said she is looking forward to building on the work that has established the association as a “leading resource for the national and international community.”

“This is a challenging time for those who understand the value of rigorous research and scholarship, who seek to expand access and opportunity, and who cultivate the next generation of scholars and practitioners to make positive societal impacts. Our work is needed now more than ever,” she said.

UM spokespeople did not respond to questions regarding Chavous’ last day at UM, or if someone will be filling her position following her departure.

Chavous’ position as vice provost had a listed salary of $416,898, according to the 2024 University of Michigan salary rate of faculty and staff.

As Chavous ends her time at UM, Provost Laurie McCauley commended her work, calling her a “visionary educator” and a “collaborative colleague” who will be a “tremendous asset” to AERA.

“She has enriched our campus immensely in her time here,” McCauley said in a statement. “Her tenure at Michigan has been defined by a passion for research, relentless creativity, and kindness toward everyone she knows. She will be missed.”

If you would like more reporting like this delivered free to your inbox, click here and signup for our weekly newsletter: Michigan Schools.

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Ann Arbor SPARK returns to promote Michigan's startup opportunities at SXSW conference

Continuing a commitment to elevate Michigan as a nationwide leader in mobility, manufacturing, and entrepreneurial innovation, Ann Arbor SPARK returned to the SXSW conference in Austin, Texas, this year. The organization co-sponsored Michigan Day at the conference's Midwest House on March 11. Michigan Day spotlighted Michigan's startup funding strategies and influence in hardtech (solutions that combine h...

Continuing a commitment to elevate Michigan as a nationwide leader in mobility, manufacturing, and entrepreneurial innovation, Ann Arbor SPARK returned to the SXSW conference in Austin, Texas, this year. The organization co-sponsored Michigan Day at the conference's Midwest House on March 11. Michigan Day spotlighted Michigan's startup funding strategies and influence in hardtech (solutions that combine hardware and software) and advanced air mobility.

"It was important for SPARK to be there because we are a credible player in this space," says Loren Townes Jr., director of entrepreneurial services at SPARK Central. "It's about doing our best to equip all of our stakeholders with the tools they need to be innovative and drive economic prosperity and innovation in our region."

Backed by 79 partner organizations, Midwest House hosted a record-breaking four-day event highlighting the region's strengths. Nearly 9,000 attendees were treated to a mix of panels, pitch competitions, and performances. In total, there were 55 events and 151 speakers.

On Michigan Day, Mike Flanagan, SPARK’s vice president of capital programs, led a panel featuring Crystal Brown, co-founder and CEO of CircNova; Josef Hjelmaker, founder and CEO of Electric Outdoors; and Jim Tenzillo, principal of Michigan Outdoor Innovation Fund. The panel provided transparent, practical advice for entrepreneurs navigating the fundraising landscape, emphasizing relationship building and personal storytelling.

"Mike reminded founders in the audience that most investors do have a specific thesis that they're interested in," Townes says. "So it's good for founders to do research and have that knowledge, so they can better target their approach."

Throughout SXSW 2025, the Ann Arbor SPARK team also engaged with other trailblazers in areas ranging from deepfake defense and lunar mining to regenerative capitalism.

One "gem" that Townes says he's exploring is "the importance of being curious about and rethinking" the idea of investing in companies to build economies alongside impact.

"It's not necessarily just to make money, but to actually repair and strengthen the world around us," he says. "We can use capitalism as a tool to be able to do that. It can be a tool for repairing, not just a reward."

Moving forward on the heels of SXSW, Townes is eager to transform the knowledge he gained into "tangible impact."

"I met people from different spaces, from different places nationally, and those relationships could materialize into wonderful things right here," he says. "We've brought back a lot of knowledge that can benefit the local community."

Jaishree Drepaul is a writer and editor based in Ann Arbor. She can be reached at jaishreeedit@gmail.com.

Photo courtesy of Ann Arbor SPARK.

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 Cute Puppies For Sale Ann Arbor, MI

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