Compare and Contrast Accelerator Programs: Explore what makes startup accelerators truly different

Showcase Presentation

This even will feature a 10-minute investor-focused pitch, developed by a local entrepreneur with the help of NEF’s coaching program. The goal of the Showcase Presentation is to allow entrepreneurs to present their business plan and connect with potential investors.

This month’s Showcase Presenter will be Denys Slyusar with Down2Chill.

With just one tap, Down2Chill shows you which friends are actually free right now. Whether you’re in the mood to study, hit an event, chill at home, or just vibe with people nearby, the app makes spontaneous hangouts effortless. It’s designed for viral growth, prioritizing simplicity, privacy, and authentic in-person connections. No distractions, no bots - just making it easy to meet up when it matters. 

Denys Slyusar is an entrepreneur with a passion for innovation, leadership, and making things happen. A dual-degree graduate in Electrical and Computer Engineering from the University of Michigan and a licensed builder in the state of Michigan, Denys combines technical expertise with hands-on business experience.

Panel Discussion: Compare and Contrast Accelerator Programs - Explore what makes startup accelerators truly different

This 45-minute expert panel brings together founders, and program operators to unpack the real distinctions between accelerators. Learn how selection criteria, funding models, and mentorship intensity vary across programs - and what that means for founders seeking the right fit. 

The discussion flows from foundational definitions to in-depth comparisons of structure, outcomes, and long-term impact. Attendees will gain practical guidance on choosing the right accelerator, hear success and cautionary stories, and explore how accelerators are evolving with trends like remote work and new financing models. 

Who should attend:  Startup founders, investors, and ecosystem leaders who want to demystify accelerator programs and make smarter, more strategic decisions about participation or partnership. 

Moderator

William Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer and VP of Sales at Reveel. Bill brings 30+ years in innovative marketing, product management, sales, and strategic operations for SaaS information technology, life science, and healthcare companies from early stage startup to multi billion dollar organizations. Bill achieved a consistent track record of go-to-market success, growing companies up to 40% growth per year. Bill’s passion is helping technology companies achieve profitable, sustainable growth.

Panelists

Margarita Hernandez with Centrepolis. Margarita Hernandez is a seasoned entrepreneur, venture catalyst, and startup advisor with a strong track record of fostering the growth of high-potential tech companies, shaping the state’s startup landscape. With deep expertise in commercialization strategies, investment diligence, and ecosystem development, she has successfully guided over 25+ technology founders through key growth milestones to secure venture capital from pre-seed through Series A.

Joey Panella of Decimal Code. Joey Panella, CEO and Co-Founder of Decimal Code, is an operator with experience in hospital finance, research commercialization, and venture capital. He previously worked at Innovation Partnerships as a Venture Analyst,  earned his BBA at the University of Michigan, and his MBA at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.

Rebecca Roman of Conquer Accelerator and Tiny Boat Games. Becky is an independent game developer with startup, coaching, and multidisciplinary game development experience. Becky is currently the Program Manager of the Spartan Innovations/MSU Research Foundation Venture Creation Program, where she provides one-on-one mentorship for early stage high tech and or high growth companies to help them build a business around their technology.

Loren Townes with Ann Arbor SPARK. Loren is Director of Entrepreneurial Services at SPARK, focusing on accelerating tech startups and early-stage companies. He previously led the Business+Impact Studio Incubator at the Ross School of Business, Michigan, coaching student entrepreneurs in social impact ventures. Loren teaches at the Ross School of Business, educating students on business practices and leadership, and operates his own public speaking company focused on resilience, delivering keynotes and workshops that equip individuals with the tools to navigate ambiguity with confidence.  

Networking

Come join us in person to enjoy food and drink and conversation with members of the local startup community.

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