This meeting will present a look at issues unique to family owned and operated business that arise when potential purchasers begin the due diligence process. The panel, who are all family business advisors with many years of experience, will share insights into potential issues that can arise and how to identify and address these issues prior to closing on the transaction.

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Please join us on October 14 to hear Robert Fornaro, CEO of AirTran Airways, share the remarkable growth story and why the airline chose West Michigan for new air service earlier this year. AirTran Airways began daily, non-stop service from Gerald R. Ford International Airport to Orlando and Baltimore in May of this year. They have since expanded service, offering flights to Ft. Myers and Tampa. AirTran’s entry into the West Michigan market has been met with strong support from local business leaders who have faced high airfares, shrinking flight availability and inventory.

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West Michigan Life Sciences Update - May 19, 2010

An update on the economic impact of Life Sciences in West Michigan. Topics covered were:VAI Phase 2 and TGen Update; Medical Mile Update;Commercialization and economic impact of Life Sciences;Stories from the front line

What's Next? The Great Recession and a Shifting Automaker Mix
- April 21, 2010

Where to Go When Your Bank Says "No!" - February 17, 2010

Insight on the Current Status of the Subordinated Debt Markets
A panel discussion featuring David Gezon, Midwest Mezzanine, Ronald Kahn, Lincoln International and Shawn Ely, South Franklin Street Partners. Attendees learned: What are subordinated debt lenders looking for? What are the leverage metrics under which the markets are operating? What are senior lenders expecting from subordinated lenders in a transaction?

Valuing Strategies for Startup Enterprises - January 20, 2009

The valuation of a early stage startup company before revenue generation is always a challenge for entrepreneurs and investors alike. This process is critical in determining how much ownership in the company the owners and equity investors will enjoy.

Private Equity Panel - September 16, 2009

ACG has assembled an esteemed panel of private equity experts to discuss recent developments and projected trends in the world of professional capital. The panel will include Craig Collister, partner of RoundTable Healthcare Partners, an operating-oriented private equity firm focused on the healthcare industry, and Michael Foster, a managing director of Midwest Mezzanine Funds, an active mezzanine financier of middle market buyouts. The panel will be moderated by Tracy Larsen, the managing partner of Barnes & Thornburg's Grand Rapids office and a seasoned merger and acquisition lawyer.

Venture Capital Panel: Sourcing Capital for Early Stage Companies - June 17, 2009

Technology Transfer: From Research Labs to Private Sector Companies - April 22, 2009
A panel presentation from the area’s leading technology transfer experts to learn about the technology transfer process, technology being developed right here in our backyard and learn how your company can get plugged into West Michigan’s pipeline of innovation.

Moderator:
Jerry Callahan, Ph.D., MBA, Business Development at Van Andel Institute

Panel:
Brent Mulder, Ph.D., MBA, Director of Technology Transfer at Van Andel Institute
Dave Brenner, President and Chief Executive Officer, Innovation Park at Notre Dame
Michael Sharer, Ph.D., MBA, Director of Technology Transfer at Western Michigan University
Michael Harris, Executive Director, Enterprise Center of Calvin College

Innovation Success Story: Shawn Eshragh of Concept Industries - February 18, 2009
Choosing Green: Are We Cashing In Our Legacyω
Breaking our dependency on oil is critical to America's economic stability, national security and environmental health. But, it's easier said than done. Or is itω Grand Rapids-based Concept Industries is an innovative player among a growing global manufacturing movement that's leveraging green technology in its processes and products. Join us at our February 18, 2009 breakfast meeting to hear Concept Industries President, Shawn Eshragh, talk about what it takes for manufacturers to go green, the short- and long-term economic incentives to do so as well as learn about new and exciting green manufacturing inovations happening right here in our region.
To view the presentation, please click here.

Innovation and Intrapreneuring: Unleashing the Potential of Your Company's Internal Entrepreneurs - January 21, 2009

To view the presentation, please click here.

Non Member Attendance Policy:
Non-members are welcome to attend two meetings a year as guests, at the non-member rate of $35. If non-members are interested in joining ACG Western Michigan to gain access to all our meetings, please click here or call our office at 616-732-7149 for membership information.

Reservation/Payment Policy:
Payment is required to confirm your reservation. If you would like to pay by credit card, please click the register button below. If you would like to pay with a check, please click the register button below but please note we must receive your payment no later than the Monday prior to the breakfast meeting. Please make checks payable to ACG Western Michigan and please include your reservation number. Mail to P.O. Box 6661, Grand Rapids, MI 49516-6661.

Cancellation Policy: 24 hours prior. "No Shows" will be billed.