Patent Attorney and Founder
Hey inventors and entrepreneurs, JD Houvener here with Bold Patents in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
If you’re building something new, whether it’s a product, a brand, or a whole business, we’re here to help you protect it. Patents, trademarks, and IP don’t have to feel out of reach. Especially in a city like Ann Arbor, where there’s already so much innovation happening.
The University of Michigan is just one part of the story. This town is full of resources that can help inventors and small businesses get a real start. But I get it, knowing where to begin can be overwhelming.
So I’ve put together a short list. Just five places that are worth checking out if you’re looking to turn your idea into something real.
1. Ann Arbor SPARK This is hands-down my favorite place to send new inventors. SPARK (yes, all caps) is a nonprofit that helps startups get off the ground. They offer:
- Funding support
- Business guidance
- Marketing help
- Connections to skilled workers and contractors
A big success story that came out of SPARK? Duo Security is a cybersecurity company that now helps protect businesses with two-factor authentication. They started small right here in Ann Arbor and went big.
2. Desai Accelerator This is a more intensive program, seven months long. You’ve got to apply, and not everyone gets in. But if you’re serious about growing a tech startup, this is one to shoot for.
You’ll get:
- Mentorship from seasoned founders
- Help refining your business model
- Access to funding for high-growth ventures
One app that came through Desai? MySwimPro named Apple Watch App of the Year. It’s a training and tracking app for swimmers, and it got its boost right here.
3. Innovation Partnerships at U-M If you’re tied to the University of Michigan (as a student, researcher, or faculty), this one’s worth a look. The Innovation Partnerships Accelerator is an incubator on North Campus that offers:
- Lab access
- Office space
- One-on-one coaching
- Networking with real investors
One startup that came out of this program? MemryX, which builds AI chips for robotics and autonomous vehicles. Their chips are powerful, affordable, and low-power, and they launched from this very space.
4. MI-HQ (Michigan Innovation Headquarters) This is Michigan’s largest coworking and startup space, with close to 300,000 square feet of shared labs, offices, and community. If your startup’s been stuck in isolation, MI-HQ can help break that.
You’ll find other entrepreneurs to bounce ideas off, swap lessons, and maybe even team up with. Think of it like startup cross-training. You’ll get stronger by being around others who’ve done what you’re trying to do.
5. Tech Brewery. Funny name. Serious impact.
This coworking space is focused on tech startups, and it’s where Duo Security originally launched before they joined SPARK. Tech Brewery has a strong community of developers, designers, and founders who all work side-by-side.
If you’re early-stage and looking for inspiration (or just someone who gets it), this could be your place.
So, there you go, five real-deal places where you can plug in, learn, and grow your idea right here in Ann Arbor.
If you’re ready to talk trademarks, patents, or need help figuring out if your invention is patentable, that’s where Bold Patents comes in. Reach out anytime. We’re happy to do a quick search, look at your invention, and get the patent process started.
Go big. Go bold.
I’m JD Houvener, founder of Bold Patents. Catch you soon.