Venture Michigan Magazine – Summer 2017 by Venture Michigan

Detroit-based On'Re Sport

Yeast hunting in the U.P.

Exploring Leelanau

Venture Michigan EXPLORING MICHIGANâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S INNOVATORS, ENTREPRENEURS AND THE INVESTORS WHO FUND THEM

SUMMER 2017

Man on a Mission Automation Alley's Noel Nevshehir on the value of travel and trade

VENTUREMICHIGANMAG.COM

CONTENTS

VOLUME 2 : : ISSUE 2

SUMMER 2017

FEATURES FOCUS

Automation Alley's Noel Nevshehir

BUSINESS

Brewinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in the Upper Peninsula

WEEKEND

Getting lost in Leelanau

DIGITAL EDITION

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DEPARTMENTS

4 6

WELCOME

From our team

IMPACT

STARTUPS L3C: a mixer for businesses and social enterprises

Bridging the gap between faiths

INCUBATE

Macomb OU firms receive funding

HEALTH

DESIGN

Measuring mental health at Oakland University

28 30

SCENE Ann Arbor SPARK awards fast-growing firms

BOOKEND Michigan-based author Loren D. Estleman's latest page turner

Womens' tennis attire bridges form and function VENTURE MICHIGAN : : SUMMER 2017

Venture Michigan

WELCOME

SUMMER 2017 : : Volume 2, Issue 2

h, summertime. Doesn’t arrive soon enough. Always too early to leave. Yet, knowing it’ll eventually reveal itself makes the rest of the year bearable and reminds us why we live here. While the pace of business seems to slow during summer — that achingly lethargic crawl on northbound I-75 begs the question: is anyone working Friday afternoons? — that’s not say business isn’t getting done. For Noel Nevshehir, director of Automation Alley’s International Business Services, the work certainly doesn’t fluctuate seasonally. Planning for any of his three annual trade missions involves much advance strategizing, including meeting with cultural experts to ensure social gaffes won’t upend deals for the representatives from the dozen or so businesses along for the ride. Raman Singh, president of the Interfaith Leadership Council of Metropolitan Detroit, isn’t taking a summer hiatus either, as Weam Namou explains. Singh can be found coordinating the IFLC Religious Diversity Journeys that introduce teens to our vast religious landscape through field trips to five different houses of worship, and sharing meals with members of different religious traditions. Emily Geiger, too, is hard at work hunting yeast. Yes, it’s a thing. A very lucrative one at that for the 28-yearold microbiologist and founder of Craft Cultures Yeast Labs in the U.P. The fast-growing startup, as Steve Patchin reports, supplies this essential ingredient to many of Michigan’s craft brewers. While you won’t be getting a permit to hunt yeast any time soon, you’ll find Geiger’s story a fascinating read. Finally, if you do find yourself with a long weekend at hand, know the reward for enduring that slog out of town is usually a gem of a place waiting to discover. Travel writer Nicole Serra explores the Leelanau peninsula and reports on the region’s often overlooked locales. Of course, she tells us about the extraordinary food and wine festivals of the area, but her focus is on small towns such as Maple City and Cedar, and the aptly named fishing village, Fishtown, home to the Dam Candy Store, a quintessential small town mainstay. The season’s short. There’s much to enjoy. And even more to read. – The Venture Michigan Team 4

SUMMER 2017 : : VENTURE MICHIGAN

EDITORIAL Editor Jane Racey Gleeson Copy Editor Anne Mulvenna Contributing Writers Alari Adams Steve Patchin Mike Brogan Nicole Serra Ed Nakfoor Joyce Wiswell Weam Namou Advisory Board Susan Gordon Ed Nakfoor Paul Riser Chuck Rymal

Yes, yeast hunting is a thing. And a very lucrative one for Craft Cultures Yeast Labs, a fast-growing Hancockbased startup.

CREATIVE Creative Director Alex Lumelsky Production SKY Creative Contributing Photographers Sarah Bird Doug Coombe Beth Robinson Max Wedge

PUBLISHING Published by Venture Michigan LLC

ADVERTISING Managing Director, Sales and Marketing R. David Eick Account Managers Nan Keilman Barbara Somero For Advertising: 248-231-8067 or david@venturemichiganmag.com Venture Michigan is a quarterly magazine. Our mission is to uncover the most important stories about the people, companies, technologies and ideas that are transforming Michigan. The publication is distributed to SmartZone communities throughout the state. To subscribe, please email: subscriptions@venturemichiganmag.com. © 2017 Venture Michigan LLC All content herein is the property of Venture Michigan LLC and cannot be copied, reproduced, distributed or republished without express written permission. Postmaster: Send address changes to Venture Michigan Magazine, 3000 Town Center, Suite 58, Southfield MI 48075

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VENTURE MICHIGAN : : SUMMER 2017

STARTUPS

Best of Both Worlds: The L3C Offers Flexibility for Social Entrepreneurs

hevrolet Volt. Toyota educational purpose of the Prius. Michigan L3C. respective L3C. Two of these products Despite its non-profit are automobiles and the other characteristics, an L3C is not is a relatively new Michigan a tax-exempt organization corporate entity, known as under Section 501(c) of a low-profit limited liability the Internal Revenue Code. company (“L3C”). Nonetheless, Therefore, donations and all three of these products are investments to L3Cs are not considered hybrids and allow ALARI ADAMS tax deductible. Additionally, their respective users to achieve L3Cs operate like standard optimal results by combining LLCs for federal tax purposes, different components. so any profits “pass through” to its Enacted in 2009 by the Michigan members and are taxed at individual Legislature, an L3C is a hybrid rates. between a non-profit corporation and L3Cs are particularly attractive a for-profit corporation, possessing to individuals who are interested in characteristics of each. Similar to a creating a social enterprise. As you non-profit, an L3C must be formed probably know, social enterprises in furtherance of some charitable or are focused on improving the quality educational purpose. However, as with of their communities, as opposed to a for-profit entity, an L3C may have solely achieving monetary profits equity owners who have the right to for the organization. The attraction receive distributions of profits and to L3Cs stems from the fact that appreciation in the value of the business they permit funding from traditional entity. Currently, only ten states permit sources (family, banks, angel investors, organizing as an L3C (although L3Cs etc.), as well as private foundations. To can operate in all states). maintain a tax-exempt status, private Like most entities, an L3C must foundations are required by the IRS to be registered with the Michigan contribute at least five percent of their Department of Licensing and assets for a charitable purpose. Often, Regulatory Affairs (“LARA”) in a this is achieved through grants but manner similar to a limited liability foundations may also opt to make company (“LLC”), with articles of program-related investments (“PRI”). organization being filed and execution PRIs, defined in Section 4944 of the of an operating agreement. Due to Internal Revenue Code, are investments the unique nature of the L3C, some with entities whose primary objective additional compliance is required with is aimed at a charitable or educational Michigan law and the IRS. Most notably, purpose, rather than seeking a profit. A an addendum needs to be attached to PRI may be structured as interestthe article, detailing the charitable or free or below-market loans, loan 6

SUMMER 2017 : : VENTURE MICHIGAN

guarantees, letters of credit or equity investments. Therefore, L3Cs and PRIs are perfect for each other — the L3C attains funding and the foundation remains in the good graces of the IRS. Any returns can be reinvested for other charitable purposes. However, the unique branding opportunities presented by L3Cs are not without some hurdles. Currently, the IRS does not automatically recognize an investment with an L3C as being a PRI. And the penalty for making an investment that is later discovered not to qualify as a PRI can be severe — large fines and/or loss of tax-exempt status. Therefore, foundations must exercise due diligence by asking the IRS for a private letter ruling, prior to making an investment to ensure compliance. Alternately, foundations can examine the nineteen examples provided by the IRS, which illustrate investments that qualify as a PRI. Keeping potential pitfalls in mind, the L3C may be an appropriate solution for many social enterprises seeking to achieve creative capitalism. However, the designation's longterm success may be contingent on the IRS making a definitive ruling regarding investments to L3Cs. In the interim, L3Cs create a distinctive entity for those who are passionate about providing social benefits to their communities.

Alari K. Adams is the founder of ASquared Legal Group, PLC which provides legal counsel to entrepreneurs and startups. Follow her on Twitter @ASquaredlegal.

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IMPACT

The Interfaith Leadership Council seeks to create connections, conciliation, and education BY WEAM NAMOU

BETH ROBINSON

n September 12, 2001, clergy A leader in the Sikh community, Singh to residents of Flint, Michigan during that and community leaders met in believes that understanding the great city’s water crisis. the aftermath of 9/11 to plan traditions and practice of other religions But their ongoing thriving program a joint prayer service at Detroit’s Fort not only reduces social differences, but has been Religious Diversity Journeys, Street Presbyterian Church. The group expands our collective consciousness of where seventh grade students from continued to meet monthly, moderated the possibilities of faith. That through different school districts participate in by Reverend Daniel Krichbaum, who was interfaith engagement we can harness five school-day field trips (one daily) to then the executive director of the Detroit the resources and good intentions of visit five different houses of worship: Office of the National Conference for people to impact some of the challenges Christian, Jewish, Muslim, Sikh, and Hindu. Community Justice, which later became facing our region. The students also perform a summation the Michigan Roundtable for at either the Holocaust Center Diversity and Inclusion. or the Detroit Institute of Arts. The group, made up of Students are provided with independent leaders of many the unique opportunity to ask faiths, soon decided to take their questions, tour the houses of interfaith effort to congregations worship, and share a meal with instead of limiting their work to those of different faith traditions. dialogue among individuals. As “This program helps break their work continued to expand, barriers and allows people in 2010 they officially established to see our commonly shared the Interfaith Leadership Council values,” said Singh. “Sometimes The Religious Diversity Journeys program brings seventh of Metropolitan Detroit (IFLC). learning about other faiths grade students together to explore different traditions. They’ve since created a number broadens your knowledge and of educational programs, community “We consider ourselves a network of deepens your appreciation for your own initiatives, service and book projects and networks, and have therefore collaborated faith.” conflict resolution services. with many other organizations, school Exploring our Religious Landscapes “IFLC has served as a hub for districts, and houses of worship,” she said. is another program which is quickly uniting people of faith in a common IFLC gained significant attention in growing. Through classes, adults have the purpose,” said Raman Singh, president 2010 when they brought together nearly opportunity to explore and discuss the of the organization. “Our focus areas 1,500 faith leaders from across Detroit sacred texts and rituals of four different are connections, conciliation, and to support the Islamic Center of America faiths. This program consists of lectures, education.” and defuse the attention brought by Terry immersive worship experiences, dinners, Singh, a graduate of Wayne State Jones’ anti-Islam protest. In 2014, they and discussions at four different houses University with a master’s in Mechanical hosted the North American Interfaith of worship per cycle. Engineering and owner of Kumon Network (NAIN) Connect Conference on “It’s really helpful and important Math and Reading Center in Plymouth, the campus of Wayne State University, to learn about other peoples’ faiths, has been involved with the Interfaith which attracted more than 150 registered especially during a period when so many Leadership Council for more than a guests internationally, from 26 states are distrustful of other traditions,” Singh decade. She was elected president two and provinces, and 48 different religious said. “Some people have never been in years ago, a position previously held by groups. In 2016, IFLC joined other a mosque or a church and this process her father. organizations in offering drinking water helps to take away the fear.” 8

SUMMER 2017 : : VENTURE MICHIGAN

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Not surprisingly, following the recent presidential election, the organization had an increase in interest from people wanting to learn more about Islam. “We’re happy to see that we’re making a difference,” she said, “but we realize there’s still a lot of fear out there and we feel we have more work to do.” With an annual budget of $200,000, Singh attributes the organization’s financial success to two main strategies: the board is comprised of volunteers, with two paid staff (one part-time, another full-time), and they don’t chase funding. “The board is here because they believe in the work and they stay true to their mission,” she said. “If we don’t have the money, we don’t do it.” She pointed out that this isn’t the case for all organizations. Some will change their mission to fit the funds they’re chasing. Interfaith Leadership Council, on the other hand, finds like-minded foundations that want to support their efforts because they are already aligned with the core mission. Their finances come from a variety of sources including the board trustees, participants in the program, their annual awards dinner and fundraiser, as well as grants from some corporate and community foundations. In her view, other important components to a successful organization include discipline and staying clear and true to the purpose. “Anything that makes society feel divided, that’s where our space is,” Singh said. “Metro Detroit is an incredibly diverse area. We don’t realize how lucky we are. We live together quite well. That’s not the case in many areas. But we still don’t know each other well enough.”

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Weam Namou is an award-winning author of 12 books, a journalist, the vice president of Detroit Working Writers, and ambassador at Arab America. Learn more at weamnamou.com. VENTURE MICHIGAN : : SUMMER 2017

INCUBATE

Three Macomb-OU Incubator The ONU Advantage companies receive funding

he Macomb-OU Incubator in Sterling Heights, Mich., was awarded $48,000 in state Business Accelerator Funds to provide accelerator services to three client companies: ONU, Templar Integrated Security Solutions, and Zoesen. Business Accelerator Funds awards are an initiative of the State of Michigan’s 21st Century Jobs Fund Program and are distributed by the Michigan Small Business Development Center through the Michigan Economic Development Corp. and Michigan’s network of business accelerators. Participating business accelerators throughout the state can access funds through the Business Accelerator Funds to provide specialized business acceleration services to comand providing immediate trauma and panies commercializing advanced triage care. Templar’s BAF funds will astechnology. sist with the company’s progress toward Selected companies must show a commercialization, including funding to high potential for success and an abilraise capital and the finalization of intelity to create positive economic impact ONU One uses the secure and ONU One is totally responsive. lectual property filings.Assets move seamlessly in in the region. reliable Amazon Web Services’ Our simple iFrame embed virtuallocated reality and Zoesen:makes The company, in augmen Here is a look at Macomb-OU IncuCloudFront content delivery for an effortless e-commerce reality. Bring products any Rochester Hills, Mich., was founded by bator companies selected for funding: network, so your 3D assets are experience. ONU One Liu, alsoOakland offers University and experience them to sc Zijuan associate ONU: This Southfield, Mich., startup always available. custom, branded mobile apps. even if they’re bigger than professor of biology sciences. Liu’s oversoftware-as-a-service company offers the-counter cream treats joint damage, 3D visualization technology with ONU tions: Brighton, Mich.-based Templar’s alleviates joint inflammation and boosts One, a 3D platform for manufacturers joint function. The product promotes of consumer goods. Its patent-pending patent-pending Rapid Response, Diswww.ONU1.com Your products, perfected. mineral absorption in tissues that suffer technology takes physical products and tributed Armory and School Resource Officer Advantage systems are a unique from inflammation and actively targets optimizes them for interactivity online, combination of biometric authentication and blocks inflammation through antideliverable to mobile apps, websites, vaults, tools, life-saving supplies, softinflammation small molecules. The BAF and virtual and augmented realities. The funds for Zoesen will allow for creation BAF funds dedicated to ONU will help ware and police academy-level training offerings. This system addresses shootof a logo and website, as well as a patent the company accelerate market growth. ing events by minimizing response time application. Templar Integrated Security Solu-

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SUMMER 2017 : : VENTURE MICHIGAN

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HEALTH

Mental health kiosks at Oakland University

hrough a collaboration with Easterseals Michigan and Screening for Mental Health Inc., the first MindKare Kiosk for Michigan was unveiled at Oakland University’s Kresge Library in Rochester Hills, Mich., on Jan. 18. Screening for Mental Health, a national organization based in Wellesley Hills, Mass., is dedicated to raising awareness of and screening individuals for common behavioral and mental health disorders and suicide. The freestanding kiosk uses an interactive touch screen display to provide users with quick, anonymous assessments of six mental health issues: generalized anxiety, depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, bipolar disorder, eating disorders and substance use disorders. The systemalso provides 12

SUMMER 2017 : : VENTURE MICHIGAN

students with access to local treatment centers and other resources. Easterseals Michigan secured a $27,000 grant award from the Flinn Foundation to bring the Screening for Mental Health Inc. MindKare Kiosk program to Michigan. Doctors may soon be able to diagnose 17 diseases, including cancer, multiple sclerosis and irritable bowel syndrome, with a single breath. Approximately 1,400 people from five countries were invited by researchers to breathe into the device, which was able to identify diseases with 86 percent accuracy. According to the research study, every disease has its own “breathprint.” The breathalyzer, still in testing phases, analyzes microscopic compounds —

known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) — to detect each condition. A single breath into a newfangled breathalyzer is all doctors need to diagnose 17 different diseases, including lung cancer, irritable bowel syndrome and multiple sclerosis, a new study found. Researchers invited 1,400 people from five different countries to breathe into the device, which is still in its testing phases. The breathalyzer could identify each person’s disease with 86 percent accuracy, the researchers said. The technology works because “each disease has its own unique breathprint,” the researchers wrote in the study. The breathalyzer analyzes microscopic compounds — called volatile organic compounds VOCs — to detect each condition.

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DESIGN

Function meets form New line of women's tennis attire resolves a practical challenge BY ED NAKFOOR

mitri Diakonov lives and breathes tennis. Rated an Elite Professional by the United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA), as well as Master of Performance with the Professional Tennis Registry — a global organization with more than 15,000 members across 125 countries — Diakonov has more than twenty years of playing experience under his belt. In addition to competitive play, Diakonov is an experienced instructor, teaching at a number of Detroit-area tennis clubs. But it was in the role of a spectator, that Diakonov recognized a need specific to women’s tennis: Unlike men’s tennis attire, women’s apparel overlooks the obvious question of where to put a second ball. “I was at the Western and Southern Tennis Open in Cincinnati a few years ago watching Dominika Cibulkova … the ball in her pocket was impeding her swing,” explains Diakonov. Engineered specifically to meet the needs of performance tennis, the CourtViper™ Series One features a pocket that allows the player to securely slip a tennis ball “in and under” during play. The patented technology makes fast on-court retrieval possible by merely reaching back for the next tennis ball. Located along the back waistband, the double pockets are made of ultra premium fabric with breathable mesh vents. The fabric provides UV protection and features moisture-wicking fibers that allow for a faster drying time and increased comfort. 14

SUMMER 2017 : : VENTURE MICHIGAN

“I saw an undeniable need for high quality, fashionable sportswear meeting the demands of performance tennis and on-court functionality. Women who wear them can’t believe how soft and supple they are,” says Diakonov. And with the widespread popularity of exercise clothing, he believes this attire makes for a smart fashion statement off the court as well. The CourtViper™ Series One is manufactured in limited runs and features multiple colors in capri and leggings styles. The line is marketed and distributed by Detroit-based On’Re Sport. Launched in 2016 after a year of prototyping 23 iterations, Diakonov seeks to set a new standard for women’s performance tennis apparel, aiming for a spirit of relentless focus, dynamic grit and a touch of rebellion. Plans for the future include the introduction of LuxAthletic, a companion brand geared less toward the performance customer. “It’s more for everyday wear but still embodies athleticism,” Diakonov says. Items in the Lux line will include a patented pocket design to securely store valuables, especially mobile phones. Diakonov adds, “There’s nothing like it.”

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FOCUS

Man on a Mission Automation Alley's Noel Nevshehir on the value of travel and trade BY JOYCE WISWELL

SUMMER 2017 : : VENTURE MICHIGAN

MAX WEDGE

oel Nevshehir is 80 percent Department of Commerce’s International missions since joining the non-profit in toward fulfilling his life’s ambition. Trade Administration. The typical trip 2006, and each necessitates at least “I have finally reached 80 lasts about a week and costs an average one prior planning trip. countries, and my goal is to reach 100 of $6,000 for a company to participate, “I tell people that I retired when I countries before I die,” says the director and about $3,500 for an additional em- joined Automation Alley because my job of Automation Alley’s International ployee. That price includes airfare and is more fun than work. It provides me Business Services. accommodations. the opportunity to do what I love most, It helps to have the perfect job; To date, Automation Alley has taken which is to travel the world and meet Nevshehir leads three people — not just professiontrade missions each year ally, but also to learn about to destinations around the them personally,” he says. “I globe — to locales as farhave friends and family who flung as Chile, Dubai, Israel, make two, three times what Germany and Indonesia. I make but are absolutely Mexico is visited annually. miserable.” The missions include one Destinations are chosen or more representatives from based on the feedback of 10 to 12 companies interested Automation Alley members. in exporting their product, “We are member-driven so service or technology. we survey and ask them Participants attend business what countries are of interreceptions, meet with est,” Nevshehir says. “I was government officials and hoping Bora Bora would local business leaders, and come up on that list.” At the Metropolitan Cathedral in Mexico City during a trade have matchmaker meetings Only once has he called that place them in front of mission to Mexico in 2015. off a mission after scoping potential buyers and end out the destination. users. 220 companies on 30 trade missions, “We were exploring a trade mission Nevshehir and his staff work with and says they, in addition to other ex- to Russia seven or eight years ago. This local embassies and consulates that port activities, have resulted in nearly was the only time where I came back and participate in the Gold Key Service, $740 million in export sales for local said, ‘we are not going.’ When I landed at an export.gov program of the U.S. companies. Nevshehir has led 25 of the JFK I just wanted to take a shower to

“I tell people that I retired when I joined Automation Alley because my job is more fun than work. It provides me the opportunity to do what I love most, which is to travel the world and meet people.“ – NOEL NEVSHEHIR

VENTURE MICHIGAN : : SUMMER 2017

Noel's Take… On Trade Deals “It was a huge mistake for us to withdraw from the TPP. There are military and national security implications involved, and it was a way to check China’s saber rattling. I would hate to see President Trump renegotiate the terms of NAFTA. It’s going to open a can of worms.” On Our Neighbors “I wake up every morning and thank God we have neighbors like Canada and Mexico rather than China and Russia. We have taken Mexico for granted and all I can hope for is that Trump moderates his view. Mexico contributes a lot to the economic success of the United States. It’s a great partnership.” On What He’s Learned “Everybody, no matter where you go around the world, wants what you want — to be able to support their family and live their life in peace. On the other hand, you recognize there are some laws and ideologies that probably won’t be solved in our lifetime. The irony is that wherever I travel, I am always very well received — especially in the Middle East. The Arab people are the warmest and friendliest you would ever want to meet. Juxtapose that with all the violence taking place in the name of the religion they subscribe to.” On the Benefits of Travel “The best education I ever got was having opportunity to travel the world. It’s made me a better person, I hope, and much more compassionate and empathetic. At the same time, it can harden you as well. You really have to go to see for yourself. What you see on TV is filtered. It’s nice just to get it raw and make your own judgement.”

SUMMER 2017 : : VENTURE MICHIGAN

Trade mission participants attend a reception hosted by the Honorable Jeffrey DeLaurentis, U.S. Ambassador to Cuba, during a 2016 visit.

wash off the crime and corruption,” says Nevshehir, 52. “The corruption is endemic all the way down to the poorest of the poor.” Not only was he personally offended by the corruption, Nevshehir was wary of leading Automation Alley clients down that path. “If I took these companies on a trade mission they would be compromised by Russian agents,” he says. “It is illegal to pay bribes.” This wasn’t his first experience with Russia, with which he’s always had a fascination. In 1984, Nevshehir spent six months studying at St. Petersburg (Leningrad) State University while an undergrad at the University of Michigan, where he double-majored in economics and Russian studies. “Wherever we went we were followed,” he recalls. “It became a game with two or three KGB agents following you at a crawl in their little cars. They thought we were all spies.” He led missions to China but is cau-

tious about companies setting up shop there. “My big concern with China is that it is just assumed they are going to poach your intellectual property. A lot of American companies are really naive in thinking, ‘I have this airtight patent.’ But it’s entirely different to enforce the patent,” Nevshehir says. “Everyone says they will help you protect it, but they steal your technology anyway. It’s a much cheaper route for them than spending billions and billions. And the cases are adjudicated by Chinese courts.” It’s a lesson he learned the hard way 15 years ago, when — as the manager of international trade for the Detroit Regional Chamber’s Department of Economic Development — he helped a Michigan company open a plant near Shanghai. “Within eight months to a year [the government] opened ‘People’s Plant 667’ down the road and copied the same metal stampings,” he says ruefully.

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“They not only drove the company out of China, but out of business as well.” He finds the market in Cuba, which Automation Alley visited last November, “really unsophisticated” but promising. He was struck by how open Cubans were in talking politics, especially compared to the time he first visited in 1993. “The potential to do business there is incredible, but nothing will happen until Raul Castro steps down in 2018,” Nevshehir says. “And despite the fact that we restored a diplomatic relationship, the trade embargo still exists, and it is unlikely to be removed by the Trump Administration.” Patrick Curry, president of Fullerton Tool in Saginaw, a family-owned manufacturer of solid carbide cutting tools, participated in a March mission to Australia. There he met numerous prospective customers and has already landed some test orders. “There is no way I could have done that myself. It is hard enough getting past

9/24/15 10:20 AM

the lobby, especially with aerospace accounts,” Curry says. “I can’t say enough good things about the team at Automation Alley. They are very aggressive about getting you good opportunities.”

“The potential to do business in Cuba is incredible, but nothing will happen until Raul Castro steps down in 2018.” Before each mission, Nevshehir brings in a cultural expert for an orientation session so attendees don’t act like 'Ugly Americans.' “You are a guest and you have to act accordingly,” he stresses. “We have a vetting process and if there

is someone who I feel will not project a good image, I will not take them.” While traveling, Nevshehir loves asking locals what they think of America and how our country could do better. “The jury is still out” on President Donald Trump, he says. Many of the Australians he recently met approve of Trump’s tough talk about China. On the other hand, “the reaction is not good” in Mexico. Wherever he goes, Nevshehir relishes candid exchanges. “I am very outspoken but I would rather talk to people that I disagree with than those I agree with. Otherwise you get into confirmation bias,” he says. “I disarm them by opening the door to letting them lead the discussion, rather than an attitude of, ‘USA USA, we’re great and you’re not.’ “I am probably this country’s biggest critic,” he adds, “but it’s still hands-down the greatest in the world. But we could be so much better if we were running on all 12 cylinders.” VENTURE MICHIGAN : : SUMMER 2017

BUSINESS

Something’s Brewin’ in the U.P.

he dream — and the challenge — of many new microbrewery owners is to craft a series of distinctive tasting beers that no one else can replicate. For many of these microbreweries, the solution to that challenge has been found in the work of Emily Geiger, Ph.D., founder and co-owner of Craft Cultures Yeast Labs, a Hancock, Mich.-based startup venture in the fast-growing world of micro-brewed gourmet beer. Geiger’s niche market has the 28-year-old microbiologist working on a referral basis as others in the industry discover her unique ability to find strains of yeast that contribute their own characteristic flavor to each culinary creation. A native of Muskegon, Mich., Geiger says her mother’s work in a hospital lab introduced her to microscopes and the wonders of what can’t be seen by the human eye, essentially igniting her love of science. Family vacations took the Geiger family to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula and to Marquette, home of Northern Michigan University, where her parents both studied. When it came to deciding on a college, Geiger says she was looking for a place that would challenge her abilities 20

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in math and science. Her love of northern Michigan led her in 2007 to Michigan Technological University (MTU) in Houghton, a school she felt had a challenging curriculum in the biosciences and a climate she loved. Getting started In 2012, immersed in her biochemistry/ molecular biology doctoral program at MTU, Geiger was offered a part-time job at the Keweenaw Brewing Company as a quality assurance manager. “It was the coolest opportunity because I was applying my knowledge,” says Geiger. “I had been studying, studying and studying and it was the first job where I actually got to apply what I learned. It was the hands-on industrial application of my knowledge and the usefulness of it. I found out really quickly that there was value in my knowledge, stuff that seemed obvious to me, that people who don’t study microbiology have no idea about.” Shortly after Geiger began working at the brewery, the owners asked if she could propagate their yeast, a process of isolating and breeding the specific strains of yeast they were using. “It took eight months to optimize the process,” she says. “I realized the value in yeast, what the brewers pay and the

frequency they pay. I did a little research and found that there were no liquid yeast manufacturers east of the Mississippi River.” With Michigan’s growing reputation as “The Great Beer State,” Geiger says, “There were tons of craft microbreweries that had no source for yeast and so the light bulb went on and I went with it.” The seeds of Craft Cultures Yeast Labs were planted. In 2013, Geiger engaged with the Smart Start program in Houghton, a service of the state’s SmartZones business incubators supported by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Through the Smart Start program, Geiger secured $30,000 in funding to launch a website and build a business plan to brand and market her company. She also met Scott Mao, who helped her structure the financial side of her business. Mao has since become Geiger’s business partner. A $6,000 loan from a family member helped with the purchase of necessary equipment. Geiger understood her competition, acknowledging the challenges inherent in the growing microbrewery industry across the country. She recalls a conversation with one Michigan brewery owner: “He said the gourmet beer market is becoming saturated with options,

SARAH BIRD

BY STEVE PATCHIN

Emily Geiger, Ph.D., founder and co-owner of Craft Cultures Yeast Labs VENTURE MICHIGAN : : SUMMER 2017

BUSINESS

A young entrepreneur’s support network

From left, co-owner Scott Mouw and Emily Geiger, Ph.D. and new strains of yeast that provide brewers with a unique taste will revolutionize the market.” That was the challenge Geiger needed. Yeast hunting in the U.P. Craft Cultures now hosts 52 strains of yeast, with10 of the strains indigenous or native, from her small laboratory in Hancock, Mich. How does Geiger find these yeast strains? “Our bestselling strain is from Eagle River in the U.P.,” she says, recalling a friend from Schmohz Brewery in Grand Rapids telling her: “It always smells ‘yeasty’ up there.” The location was along the rocky shores of Lake Superior, where Geiger’s friend had explored as a student at MTU. Geiger set out her “yeast hunting” traps and discovered the native strain. Yeast hunting and processing involves setting yeast traps, which are basically mason jars filled with sugar water or apple cider and wrapped with cheesecloth to keep insects out. The traps, situated at the desired outdoor location, act as bait for the yeast. Geiger checks the traps every 48 hours to see if the liquid is turbid, or cloudy, indicating captured yeast. Geiger then brings the captured yeast back to the lab, where yeast colonies grow. 22

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When the colonies become visible (a billion cells in size) Geiger identifies the yeast strain and repeats the process — generally four times — to accurately isolate the strain. These new yeast strains are then tested to see if ale lager enzymes are present and determine tolerance to alcohol. The final yeast strain is provided to interested brewers in a five-gallon sample, allowing them to brew a test batch and decide if it produces a successful tasting beverage. The rights to the yeast strain are retained by Craft Cultures, securing future yeast orders. According to Geiger, Craft Cultures serves as a service for any brewer to isolate yeast they may use or discover. Geiger does not charge for this service, but retains the rights to the stock culture, which allows Craft Cultures to be a lifelong supplier of that yeast strain. Her business has grown beyond beer. Recently, the maker of the Mexican tequila known as MAGAVE opened a Tequila Pub in Detroit. The company uses an isolated yeast strain from Craft Cultures to produce its gourmet tequila, with Geiger’s company retaining the production rights to that particular strain. A passion for teaching In addition to overseeing operations at

Emily Geiger can’t say enough about the importance of a solid support network. She says hers was built around three mentors, all of whom she met at Michigan Technological University in Houghton, Mich. Jeff Lewin’s passion for education influenced Geiger. Heading up lab operations in the MTU biology department, Lewin developed engaging, hands-on lessons for students while his special interest was inspiring pre-college students to explore the wide world of biology. Dr. Kenneth Michael encouraged Geiger to begin engaging in undergraduate research, an area in which she thrived. She says the research techniques and process efficiencies she learned helped her in her entrepreneurial quest. Dr. Susan Bagley became Geiger’s role model. Her expertise in the fermentation process was the seed that eventually led Geiger to yeast propagation, the process of growing these unique strains of yeast. Geiger says she was drawn to Dr. Bagley because she challenged Geiger to produce her best academic effort. Craft Cultures, Geiger teaches biological science classes at Finlandia University in Hancock and Gogebic Community College in Ironwood, Mich. Her passion lies in teaching others, whether they are students in the lab or new craft brewers trying to produce the next hot gourmet beer to hit the adult beverage market. She also reaches out to young entrepreneurs with straightforward advice: “Use resources available to you. You can’t do everything. Find the experts, those familiar with the industry you’re in and the challenges you will face.” And one more thing: “Make sure you enjoy a challenge!”

The Omena, MI-based Michigan Hop Alliance grows a variety of hops.

The Great Beer State Move over “Great Lakes State” and “Mitten State”! Michigan’s got a new moniker — “The Great Beer State” — and it’s well deserved. Here’s proof: • According to the Michigan Brewers Guild (MBG), Michigan’s breweries are located in every area of the state, operating as community-focused small businesses that collectively employ more than 7,000 individuals and pay more than $144 million in wages. The overall impact of the craft beer industry in Michigan totals more than $608 million. • The MBG also reports that Michigan ranks fifth in the nation in terms of the overall number of breweries, microbreweries and brewpubs. • Michigan’s latitude and the climate are factors in the success of the craft brewing industry, as well as in the malting- and hop-growing industries, says Jim Koch, craft brewing pioneer and founder of The Boston Beer Company, Inc. Michigan’s beer industry is centered on craft hops and craft malt, he says. • Hops are one of the basic ingredients in beer brewing, along with grain, yeast and water. Hops are the flowers of the Humulus lupulus plant, a member of the hemp family. They contain bitter essential oils that help give beer its tang. Beer makers strive to find the perfect blend between the sweet flavor of malt and the bitterness of hops. Michigan was noted in a Chicago Tribune article last summer as the top hop producer in the Midwest with over 800 acres dedicated to the crop. By comparison, Illinois has only 30 acres dedicated to growing hops. • The Michigan Hop Alliance (MHA) is focused on increasing hop production in The Great Beer State. The MHA is creating more varieties, expanded hop processing capabilities and an expanded greenhouse operation that will supply clean hop plants for MHA and fellow hop farmers. • Ten Michigan brewers were awarded medals at the 2016 Great American Beer Festival (GABF) in Denver, Colo., last fall. GABF is the largest commercial beer competition in the world, attracting industry professionals from around the nation. – Steve Patchin

The Plaza Motor Motel is a distinctive motel with 21 finely appointed guest rooms one would more likely find in a country inn or bed and breakfast but we have the convenience and price point of a traditional park-at-your-door style motel. Stroll our beautiful gardens, enjoy your first cup of coffee in our gazebo and create some happy memories to journey home with.

It’s all in the way you travel the journey… Plaza Motor Motel 3901 I-75 Business Spur Sault Ste. Marie, MI 49783 Local: 906-635-1881 Toll: 888-809-1881 plazamotormotel.com

VENTURE MICHIGAN : : SUMMER 2017

WEEKEND

Getting Lost Michiganâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s little finger strikes the balance between adventure and relaxation

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in Leelanau Looking down from the top of the dune, the descent appeared threateningly steep. The sand was marked with countless dimples — the footprints of voyagers that had come before me. Their feet had left deep dents in the hill, dug forcefully into the ground to slow their trip down the hill to a responsible, steady pace. Standing at the peak of the dune, vacant aside from me and my companion, my inner child was jumping up and down and screaming one thing: “Run!”

BY NICOLE SERRA

The Leelanau Peninsula is home to numerous vineyards. VENTURE MICHIGAN : : SUMMER 2017

WEEKEND

I pushed off and for a few seconds, I was airborne, running hard down the side of one of Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore’s massive sand dunes. My steps were clumsy and irregular, but I couldn’t help feeling like I was flying. My laughter disappeared into the wind that rushed past me, my hair whipping behind me in a mess of tumbling curls. I reached the bottom of the dune and noted the wooden marker in the sand: I was halfway to Lake Michigan. Sleeping Bear Dunes is one of countless attractions in the Leelanau Peninsula. It’s a favorite stop for tourists and locals alike, and one I was sure to visit while taking a trip through the Leelanau Peninsula last summer. Sometimes known as Michigan’s “pinky,” Leelanau has been a favorite destination for me and family for years. It holds a special place in my heart, as well as the hearts of many other Michiganders. For those of you yet to discover the beauty of the peninsula, the downtowns, natural scenery, and abundance of food, arts, and lodging are sure to captivate. Destinations Leelanau boasts a number of downtowns and shopping centers, each one 26

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Bakeries such as 9 Bean Rows make Sutton's Bay a popular destination.

oozing small-town Michigan, but all different in their one way. Particularly popular is Sutton’s Bay, a village nestled on the east coast of the peninsula, north of Traverse City. With its vibrant downtown and multitude of parks, Sutton’s Bay is the perfect place to explore - with or without your kids in tow. Sink your toes into the sugary sand of Marina Park and wade into the calm waters of Sutton’s Bay. After, wander through the rainbow-tinted downtown and check out the many specialty shops and restaurants. Further inland you’ll find both Cedar and Maple City. These towns are often overlooked because of their inland locations, but are no less worthy of a visit. “Maple City and Cedar maintain a feel of old-style Leelanau county,” said Mike Norton, the media relations manager at Traverse City Tourism. His family settled in the Leelanau Peninsula 150 years ago, and Norton has been a resident of the area for over 40 years. Cedar is known for its Polish traditions, including its famous Polka Fest. This year, the festival takes place June 22-25, according to cedarpolkafest.com. The Leelanau Peninsula is full of festivals in the summer, and dates for all of them can be found at leelanauchamber.com.

Leland boasts one of the biggest of Leelanau’s festivals, the Leland Wine and Food Festival. It is also the home of Fishtown, a place like absolutely no other. Walking through Fishtown is akin to walking back in time. The historic fishing village is a collection of wooden shacks, built by fishermen as early as 1880. Today, it remains the home of a working fishery and charter fishing business as well as shops like the “Dam Candy Store.” A favorite store of mine since I was a child, the Dam Candy Store is filled with an assortment of treats. The store always smells wonderfully sweet, its aroma a welcome break from the fish scent outside. Walk in, grab a bag, fill it with your favorite goodies, and enjoy. Time in a candy store as comforting as this is a pleasure for kids and adults alike. And if candy isn’t your sweet of choice, the store’s superman ice cream is the best I’ve ever had. As badly as you may want to stay within the sugar-coated walls of the Dam Candy Store, perched at the very tip of the Leelanau peninsula is Northport, a small village that has captivated celebrities such as Mario Batali and Tim Allen - and is sure to enthrall you as well. In a “love letter” written to Traverse City (featured on the Huffington Post), Batali said, “I am madly in love with the Leelanau Peninsula and everything about it.” Northport holds many of its own festivals as well as a summer farmer’s market. Set up adjacent to the marina, the market is a great place to buy fresh produce as well as take in views of the harbored boats. The downtown, though small, is a relaxing and quaint, and the locals are as friendly as can be. “The people [of Northport] have raised it out of the build rooms and made it a really fun place to be,” said Norton.

The Fishtown in Leland, MI is a trip back in time.

Arts and Eats With beauty so prevalent in the landscape of the Leelanau Peninsula, it’s only natural that it inspires artists to create. The arts are a prevalent aspect of life and culture in the peninsula. Evidence of the art community surrounds you everywhere, from colorful decorations in downtowns to the multitude of galleries and art events. In Sutton’s Bay, enjoy the Art Festival in August or pay a visit to the Painted Bird, a gallery for art of all kinds - including jewelry, sculpture, and home crafts. Glen Arbor has multiple art galleries as well. The town is home to its own community of artisans, and the arts prove to be one of its bigger draws for tourism. The Glen Arbor Art Fair celebrates the arts within the town, and is well worth checking out the summer. Learn more about it at visitglenarbor.com. The Leelanau Peninsula is also well known for its cuisine. Bakeries such as

9 Bean Rows in Sutton’s Bay bake fluffy, flaky, and mouth-watering cherry pastries, and restaurants like the Hop Lot Brewing Company offer great beer as well as a family environment. Beer and wine have become huge parts of the Leelanau economy, with distilleries and craft breweries, such as Northern Latitudes Distillery in Lake Leelanau, really beginning to grow, according to Norton. Wine trails are a fun and romantic way to explore the area, but the amount of wineries now present in Leelanau makes tasting each wine pretty much impossible. “The idea is to pick a loop, enjoy the scenery, have a meal and do some tastings - pace yourself,” Norton said.

of lodging is to book as quickly as you can, as places to stay book up fast. As a lifelong lover of camping and all things outdoors, the campground at Leelanau State Park , near Northport, has become my home base for adventures in the Leelanau Peninsula. The rustic campground offers little in terms of modern day amenities (good-bye, showers and flushable toilets), but its sites feature walk-out access to Lake Michigan and plenty of privacy, as well as a closer look at the natural environment of Leelanau. If you’re a little too timid to rough it, no worries. There are plenty of inns and hotels in the area. Popular stays include the Riverside Inn in Leland, and, for those looking to spend a bit extra, Black Star Farms in Sutton’s Bay.

Inns Whether you prefer to stay in a tent, hotel, or a resort, Leelanau will make you one happy camper. The key for any kind

Adventures The Leelanau Peninsula provides adventure in excess. The natural landscape of the peninsula provides VENTURE MICHIGAN : : SUMMER 2017

DOUG COOMBE

SCENE

Ann Arbor SPARK honors growing firms

t its annual meeting, Ann Arbor SPARK presented its annual FastTrack awards to 18 Washtenaw Countybased companies that have demonstrated fast growth. Several of the 2016 and 2017 FastTrack award recipients were multiple year winners. “It’s incredible to see the range of companies that are thriving in our region,” said Paul Krutko, president and CEO of Ann Arbor SPARK. “The achievement of FastTrack companies is truly remarkable: They all maintained year over year growth for three consecutive years. These leading businesses prove that Ann Arbor offers what companies need to be successful.” 28

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1. Drew Fanelli and Jon Keller of J. Keller Properties accept their FastTrack awards. 2. Ann Arbor SPARK president and CEO Paul Krutko delivers the economic benchmarking report. 3. Michael Jurgenson of Swisher Commercial tunes into the conversation. 2. Congresswoman Debbie Dingell holds court; Michigan House Representative Ronnie Peterson is on the right. 4. Award winner Phil Brabbs of Torrent Consulting sticks to drinking tea (he was a featured speaker). 6. From left, FastTrack panelists Sassa Akervall, Akervall Technologies; Phil Brabbs, Torrent Consulting; Don Hicks, LLamasoft; and Thomas Gawne, Yeo & Yeo CPAs & Business Consultants. Moderator Lucy Ann Lance of the Lucy Ann Lance (on the big screen) keeps things lively.

The South Manitou Lighthouse.

Your up north playground awaits.

BED & BREAKFAST

endless opportunities to explore beautiful Michigan terrain, in any form. You can do just about anything in Leelanau - from fishing to hiking to taking a drive. A favorite adventure of Mike Norton’s is South Manitou island, but it’s not a trip for the thin-skinned or faint-hearted. “It’s remote enough that people have to work to get there,” Norton said. “You feel like you’re a member of a special group when you’re out there.” Those interested in seeing South Manitou can take a ferry service from Leland. Fans of lighthouses can check out the Grand Traverse Lighthouse in Leelanau State Park. The light has been a popular tourist spot for years, its beauty and accessibility draw in visitors from across the state. As I mentioned earlier, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a popular place to visit and, in my opinion, is a must-see. Whether you choose to hike the dunes or simply drive along the Pierce Stocking Scenic drive, the masses of sugar-sand dunes are sure to take your breath away. Time passes gently in the Leelanau Peninsula. It washes slowly over you, rippling slowly as you drift through sunny days and splashing waters. Morning hikes blend into afternoon strolls through countless downtowns, then car-

ry you into nights warmed by bonfires and the comforting taste of craft beer. The winding curves of M-22 tease you with views of sparkling Lake Michigan and wineries perched on hillsides. You’ll find yourself losing track of time deep in the woods of Leelanau State Park, breathing in morning mist as you venture to the lakeshore. Somehow in Leelanau, adventuring and relaxing fit hand-in-hand. Exhausting hikes through the peaks and valleys of Sleeping Bear Dunes are countered with romantic wine tastings along the many wine trails. Hours spent swimming and lounging on the beach are followed by dancing at festivals and checking out delicious local restaurants. Leelanau blends all things rustic and natural with the divine aspects of modern life and Michigan culture. And though there hardly seems to be time enough to see it all, there’s no hectic scramble to fit every destination in. You already know this is a place you’ll visit again and again for years to come. That’s the magic of Leelanau. You’ll look back on sunny days spent there and find the memories tinted gold, producing images that color your dreams for years to come. Plan a visit - Leelanau is sure to become your go-to getaway (if it hasn’t stolen your heart already).

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Silent Sport Lodge B&B, Cabin & Cottage 14750 Old Sturgeon Road Wolverine, MI 49799 231-525-6166 www.silentsportlodge.com VENTURE MICHIGAN : : SUMMER 2017

BOOKEND

REVIEW

Amos Walker Strikes Again BY MIKE BROGAN

“

he Sundown Speech”, by Loren D. Estleman, the award-winning Michigan-based author, is a true page-turner, from the first bullet to the last. Amos Walker, a hard-edged private investigator, is the hero in “The Sundown Speech”, the 25th in a series of celebrated private detective stories. In fact, Estleman is most famous for his novels about the P.I. The story begins when Walker is contacted by Dante and Heloise Gunnar, an Ann Arbor, Mich., couple who was swindled out of a $15,000 investment by a shifty filmmaker, Jerry Marcus, who has stopped returning their telephone calls. The story opening is pure Amos Walker. “Roll the clock back a dozen years, maybe more; Michael Jackson was still alive, Iris, too. I could walk all day without limping. Tweet was bird talk, the chain bookstore was the greatest threat to civilization since ragtime music, and the only time you saw a black president was in a sci-fi film.” Despite what Walker feels is a long haul from his Detroit residence — “The place (Ann Arbor) looked as far away from the Motor City as Morocco” — he accepts the Gunnar’s job. Amazingly, he finds Jerry Marcus in a matter of hours, at the filmmaker’s home, stuffed into a broom cupboard with a bullet to his head. Viewing the stolen $15,000 as motive for Marcus’ killing, the police arrest the most likely culprit, Dante Gunner, and Heloise once again turns to Walker, this time to find the real killer. Walker questions the last person to see Marcus alive, a University of Michigan college student named Holly Zacharias. But when someone shoots at Holly and Walker during their meeting, the real question becomes, ”Why shoot at us if Marcus is dead and Dante is in jail?” Maybe Marcus isn’t dead, after all, despite confirmation via DNA testing. When Walker discovers that Jerry Marcus’ plan is far, far more serious than a $15,000 theft, he fears he may be too late to stop Marcus. Estleman’s story pulls us into a fascinating world of DNA, pornography and total suspense to keep the pages turning. No wonder famed mystery writer Harlan Coben has this to say about the writer: “Loren Estleman is my hero.” 30

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Mike Brogan is an award-winning novelist of five mystery suspense thrillers: Business to Kill for, Dead Air, Madison’s Avenue, G8 and his latest, Kentucky Woman. Writer’s Digest called his writing “the equal of any suspense thrillers in recent years.” Available at Barnes & Noble, Amazon and mikebroganbooks.

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SUMMER 2017 : : VENTURE MICHIGAN