MTEC SmartZone recently had the opportunity to engage with Michigan Tech’s Husky Innovate Venture group as they prepared for the Warrior Ventures Ilitch Venture Capital Case Competition, hosted by Wayne State University. Director of Husky Innovation, Dr. Woock, has spearheaded the formation of this = team to expand hands-on venture capital learning opportunities for MTU students.
Patrick Visser, Chief Commercial Officer at MTEC SmartZone, attended the group’s most recent meeting as a guest mentor. Visser was able to conduct mock practice rounds with the students and provide detailed feedback on company pitch decks and financials. By challenging students to refine their investment theses and test their assumptions, Visser helped bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world venture decision-making.
“Dr. Woock does a great job leading, and I’m very impressed with the knowledge and capabilities that the students demonstrated in the due diligence analysis of startup companies.”
In addition to Visser’s involvement, an MTEC trusted ecosystem partner also volunteered to assist: Zach Meyer from Varnum Law.
Meyer led two sessions focused on understanding and negotiating term sheets, an essential component of venture capital transactions. His guidance gave students insight into deal structure, investor expectations, and key legal considerations that shape early-stage investments.
Together, this collaborative effort reflects MTEC SmartZone’s commitment to strengthening the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. By connecting students with seasoned professionals, MTEC aims to assist students in gaining exposure to the legal, financial, and strategic dimensions of venture capital.
Woock provides insight on MTEC’s involvement with the Venture team: “We are incredibly fortunate to have dedicated ecosystem partners like MTEC SmartZone who invest their time and expertise into our students. The real-world mentorship provided by Patrick Visser and Zach Meyer bridges the gap between classroom theory and high-stakes venture decision-making, giving our team the confidence to evaluate complex opportunities. On behalf of the entire Husky Innovate and MTU Venture Capital Team, we are deeply grateful for their amazing generosity”
MTEC SmartZone continues to invest not only in startups, but in the next generation of innovators and venture leaders in the Keweenaw.