The University of Michigan’s Center for Entrepreneurship (CFE) recently led an exciting and immersive entrepreneurial trek to Washington, DC, giving 22 students from diverse academic backgrounds the opportunity to experience the city’s thriving startup ecosystem firsthand. Representing nine different majors across five schools, the group included students ranging from first-year undergraduates to PhD candidates—all eager to dive into the world of entrepreneurship, learn from industry leaders, and connect with U-M alumni in the region.
A key goal of the trek was to not only introduce students to DC’s entrepreneurial landscape but also to strengthen U-M’s alumni network in the area. By engaging with successful alumni, students built meaningful professional relationships, gained valuable mentorship, and explored potential career paths.
Immersing in the DC Startup Ecosystem
The trek focused on exposing students to the dynamic and rapidly evolving startup scene in Washington, DC. Throughout their visit, students toured innovative companies, engaged with entrepreneurs, and gained firsthand insight into the cutting-edge technologies shaping the region.
At Dwellwell, a tech startup specializing in smart home solutions, students observed how startups iterate on their ideas within lean, fast-moving environments. The visit to Spectrohm, a company developing advanced security screening technologies, offered lessons in navigating real-world constraints and meeting customer needs. At Oxiwear, students saw how a deeply personal motivation could drive the creation of a life-saving medical wearable that continuously monitors blood oxygen levels. Each visit provided a unique look at how startups are transforming industries, from healthcare to hardware.
The group also explored Union Kitchen, a food startup incubator that provides entrepreneurs with comprehensive support, from product development to distribution strategies. Students gained key insights into the challenges of scaling a business in the food industry and how innovation is reshaping consumer experiences.
One of the standout visits was to Throne Labs, mission-driven company with a simple but powerful vision: ensuring that everyone has access to clean, safe, and accessible bathrooms. Their work underscores how startups can address critical societal issues while building sustainable businesses.
Engaging with Industry Leaders and U-M Alumni
A core highlight of the trek was the opportunity to engage with influential industry leaders and successful U-M alumni.
Steve Babitch, a former Presidential Innovation Fellow, shared insights into how he leveraged government, technology, and innovation to tackle complex national challenges. In the same session, Anna Mason from Ingeborg Investments discussed the crucial role venture capital plays in fueling early-stage startups, helping students understand how funding drives innovation and growth.
Jeff Pituch, a former leader at LSA’s optiMize, introduced students to NASA Lifelines, a cutting-edge initiative leveraging satellite data and systems thinking to support humanitarian organizations. His session included a hands-on activity, challenging students to analyze intricate satellite imagery and explore how technology can be harnessed for real-world problem-solving.
A major highlight was an intimate dinner hosted by Randy Brouckman, CEO of EdgeConneX, who generously shared his time, experiences, and insights. He emphasized the importance of choosing co-founders wisely, taking calculated risks, and fostering a strong company culture. The discussion was so engaging that the dinner extended well into the evening, with students eager to absorb every lesson. Special thanks to Randy, whose generosity made this trek possible.
Exploring DC and Strengthening Connections
Beyond startups and networking, students had the chance to experience Washington, DC’s unique political and cultural atmosphere. A special Capitol Tour, hosted by Representative Debbie Dingell’s staff, provided a behind-the-scenes look at the legislative process and how policy shapes national innovation. Students also explored the city’s iconic landmarks, further enriching their understanding of DC’s influence on business and entrepreneurship.
Strengthening U-M’s Entrepreneurial Community
This trek wasn’t just about exploring startups—it was about fostering a deeper sense of community within U-M’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. By connecting students with alumni, mentors, and industry leaders, the experience reinforced U-M’s role as a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Programs like this exemplify how the Center for Entrepreneurship (CFE) is not only preparing students for the startup world but also cultivating a lasting network of innovators, thinkers, and leaders. Through experiences like the DC trek, students gain critical insights, build meaningful connections, and draw inspiration from the people shaping the future of business and technology.