NEF Annual Awards - Come Celebrate at Spark

From among the entrepreneurs who were coached by NEF and delivered a Showcase Presentation at a Forum in 2024, we will recognize the best performers in three categories:

Best Business Model

Best Technology

Best Presentation

ONL Therapeutics (ONL) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company committed to developing first-in-class therapeutics to protect and improve the vision of patients with retinal disease. By advancing a breakthrough technology designed to protect key retinal cells from Fas-mediated cell death, ONL is pioneering a new approach to preserving vision.

In September 2024, the company closed on a $65 million oversubscribed Series D round financing round. Johnson & Johnson Innovation – JJDC, Inc. led the round that was backed by a consortium of investors that included Bios Partners, Novartis Venture Fund, Visionary Ventures, and ExSight Ventures, amongst others. Proceeds from the Series D will advance the development of ONL1204 Ophthalmic Solution into a Phase 2 global study for the treatment of geographic atrophy (GA) associated with dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

The Startup Community Champion Award recognizes individuals in Michigan's entrepreneurial ecosystem who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to fostering growth and opportunity. These champions actively support startups through mentorship, investment, resource connection, or community building, significantly impacting the vibrancy and success of the local Michigan startup scene.

Black Tech Saturdays is the premier network for Black professionals and entrepreneurs in tech. Their vision is to empower tech communities nationwide to close the racial wealth gap through tech-focused initiatives, while strategically driving economic growth and fostering diversity within the industry to ensure prosperity for all.

Note: While they're receiving the award in February, due to a conflict Alexa and Johnnie will be presented with the award in person during our March forum.

At the conclusion of the Forum, stick around and network with your fellow startup ecosystem members. We will break out into smaller groups so that you can rub elbows with the movers and shakers of Ann Arbor's entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

SPARK Central, 330 E. Liberty St, Ann Arbor, United States