Interested in startups? Get email updates from NEF about upcoming events and other important news. Sign me up.

New Enterprise Forum
  • About
  • Entrepreneurs
    • Get Coached
    • Pitch Pit Competitions
    • Tool Kit
  • Investors
  • Sponsors
  • Become a Coach
  • Membership
    • Become A Member
    • Member Login
  • News
  • Events

The Intentional Networker: “Getters” and “Givers” in a High-Impact Opportunity Network

With Showcase Presentations by Dr. Juergen Koller of Sequestro and Justin Scott, PhD of Sit Sense

June 18, 2026, 5 PM

Location

Ann Arbor SPARK
330 East Liberty St.
Ann Arbor, Michigan
Reserve your Spot!

The Intentional Networker: “Getters” and “Givers” in a High-Impact Opportunity Network

When it comes to networking, are you a “Getter” or a “Giver”? Join us as we explore how building the right connections can open doors, spark opportunities, and move your career or business forward. Intentional networking is not about meeting someone once; it takes focus, follow-up, and the right connections. Whether you’re a “Getter” who’s growing your network or a “Giver” generously connecting others, let’s help each other turn relationships into real impact! 

NEF board member Jen Laidlaw will facilitate this interactive discussion. Jen owns TeamWerks Talent Development & Consulting where she helps small businesses improve team and leadership effectiveness. Jen is also a board member of the Ann Arbor chapter of ATD and the Livingston County chapter of  SHRM. She has a degree in Chemical Engineering from UofM, is a Scrum Master, DiSC and Franklin Covey facilitator, and adjunct at WCC.

Come ready to connect and learn with us!  

Showcase Presentations

This even will feature two 10-minute investor-focused pitches, developed by local entrepreneurs 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.

Dr. Juergen Koller will present Sequestro, an advanced materials company developing sustainable solutions for PFAS (“forever chemicals”) contamination in water. Leveraging technology licensed from the University of Michigan, Sequestro has created ArborSORB™, a patented, wood-derived adsorbent engineered to deliver the performance of premium ion-exchange resins while offering the sustainability and cost advantages of a bio-based material. 

Justin Scott, PhD will present Sit Sense, which is changing the standard of care for pressure sore prevention with its automated smart and gentle patient repositioning technology, reducing pressure sore risk without caregiver physical effort. The Sit Sense Medical Recliner reduces pressure sore risk by 90% and nurse injury risk by 50%, and its ability to collect and analyze data will generate repositioning compliance reports and personalized care models.

Networking

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

Featured Sponsor


Previous event
All events
Next event

Contact

New Enterprise Forum
330 E Liberty St.
Ann Arbor, MI 48104
Email info@newenterpriseforum.org

Connect

© 2026 New Enterprise Forum Powered by Jottful