The Midwest Tech Project

The Midwest Tech Project The Midwest Tech Project is an Advocacy, Think Tank, and Mentoring organization created to expose an

The Midwest Tech Project is Excited To Invite You All To JURISPRUDENCE: A Forum On The Intersectionality Of Law, Artific...
09/09/2026

The Midwest Tech Project is Excited To Invite You All To JURISPRUDENCE: A Forum On The Intersectionality Of Law, Artificial Intelligence, Innovation, Business, Ethics, Intellectual Property & more for Tech Week Grand Rapids.

On September 15th, We’re Convening Some Of Michigan’s Leading, Most Brilliant Legal Minds At StartGarden At Bamboo Grand Rapids For A Forward-Looking Conversation On How Emerging Technology Is Reshaping The Legal Profession, Business & Society.

From Intellectual Property & Trademarks, To Emerging Industries, Ethics, Small Business Adoption, Content Creation Rules, Scientific Breakthroughs — This Will Be An Engaging Conversation About The Now & The Future.

Featuring:

⚖️ Attorney Scott R. Carvo — Warner Norcross + Judd
⚖️ Attorney Martin T. Shepherd — Mavacy
⚖️ Attorney Jennifer Puplava — Mika Meyers
⚖️ Attorney Alex Thibodeau — Warner Norcross + Judd

The Rules Are Changing. The Technology Is Moving. The Legal Community Will Play An Equal Role To Tech & Innovation Entrepreneurs In Shaping The World We Live In. 🌎

JURISPRUDENCE: Law, AI & Innovation Forum
September 15th | 5–8 PM
Start Garden | Grand Rapids





09/08/2026

Midwest Tech Project co-founder Alvin J Hills IV breaks down what’s in store at Jurisprudence: Our Tech Week Grand Rapids Forum on the Intersectionality of Law, Technology & Society live from Start Garden in Grandrapids during Tuesday September 15th 5pm - 8pm during Week Grand Rapids.

As part of Grand Rapids Tech Week, The Midwest Tech Project is bringing together leading legal minds to explore how rapidly evolving technology is reshaping law, business and society.

From intellectual property and trademarks to artificial intelligence, emerging industries, ethics, regulation and small business adoption, Jurisprudence will examine the legal questions and opportunities being created in real time as technology continues to transform our economy.

The Midwest Tech Project is excited to welcome Scott Carvo to our forum JURISPRUDENCE Tuesday Sept. 15th 5pm at Start Ga...
09/02/2026

The Midwest Tech Project is excited to welcome Scott Carvo to our forum JURISPRUDENCE Tuesday Sept. 15th 5pm at Start Garden in Bamboo Bamboo during . This timely conversation will explore the intersection of technology, AI, law, business, cybersecurity, and our rapidly evolving innovation economy.

Scott R. Carvo is a Partner at Warner Norcross + Judd⁠. He specializes in commercial litigation practice that sits at the intersection of AI governance, AI-assisted litigation, eDiscovery, trade-secret disputes, and restrictive covenants. He advises businesses on the responsible deployment of generative AI in business and litigation workflows and handles complex, large-scale electronic discovery matters.

As an ‘eDiscovery Attorney’ Scott is a commercial litigation partner who counsels and defends companies at the intersection of three different areas: restrictive-covenant and trade-secret disputes, AI governance and AI-assisted litigation practice and complex
eDiscovery.

He earned his B.A. from the University of Michigan in 2002 and his J.D., cm laude, from Wayne State University Law School in 2005. He has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America for Commercial Litigation from 2023–2026 and was named one of Michigan Lawyers Weekly’s Go To Lawyers for Business Litigation.

A born-problem solver, Scott finds it gratifying to conduct high-level research and help craft case strategy based on
his findings. He credits his humble upbringing in Flint, Michigan, with making him acutely aware of money
expenditures.

We look forward to having Scott provide unique insight to JURISPRUDENCE as we examine how law and policy must evolve alongside emerging technologies—and what that evolution means for businesses, institutions, entrepreneurs, and communities across Michigan.

The Midwest Tech Project is excited to welcome Alex Thibodeau to our forum JURISPRUDENCE Tuesday Sept. 15th at Start Gar...
09/01/2026

The Midwest Tech Project is excited to welcome Alex Thibodeau to our forum JURISPRUDENCE Tuesday Sept. 15th at Start Garden in Bamboo Bamboo during . This timely conversation will explore the intersection of technology, law, business, cybersecurity, and our rapidly evolving innovation economy.

Alexander J. “Alex” Thibodeau is an associate attorney with Warner Norcross + Judd LLP⁠ in Grand Rapids, where he focuses on litigation and dispute resolution. His practice includes commercial litigation, construction, real estate, insurance disputes, and emerging technologies, providing strategic and tactical counsel in complex and high-stakes matters.

Before joining Warner in 2024, Thibodeau practiced litigation at other major West Michigan firms and served as Director of Gubernatorial Appointments in the Executive Office of Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. In that role, he advised on appointments to more than 2,300 leadership positions across state government, including appointments involving Michigan’s judiciary.

Thibodeau earned his J.D. from Indiana University Maurer School of Law in 2018 and his B.A. from DePaul University in 2012. He was admitted to the Michigan Bar in 2018.

Outside the legal profession, he serves on the Grand Rapids Art Museum Board of Trustees, including as co-secretary and treasurer. His professional recognition includes Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch in America (2026), the Grand Rapids Business Journal 40 Under Forty recognition, the Grand Rapids Bar Association President’s Award and 3-in-10 Award, and Indiana University Maurer School of Law’s Distinguished Alumni Service Award.

The Midwest Tech Project is excited to welcome Jennifer Puplava to our forum JURISPRUDENCE Tuesday Sept. 15th at Start G...
08/26/2026

The Midwest Tech Project is excited to welcome Jennifer Puplava to our forum JURISPRUDENCE Tuesday Sept. 15th at Start Garden in Bamboo Bamboo during . This timely conversation will explore the intersection of technology, law, business, cybersecurity, and our rapidly evolving innovation economy.

Jennifer Puplava is a technology, privacy, cybersecurity, and intellectual property attorney who advises organizations on the legal, regulatory, and governance issues arising from technology and innovation.

She works with businesses, municipalities, and higher education institutions on artificial intelligence governance, data privacy, cybersecurity, intellectual property strategy, regulatory compliance, and technology transactions. Jennifer works closely with executive leaders and governing boards to address complex risk, policy, and governance challenges, and to help organizations adopt new technologies while maintaining accountability, security, and compliance.

We look forward to having Jennifer bring her unique perspective to JURISPRUDENCE as we examine how law and policy must evolve alongside emerging technologies—and what that evolution means for businesses, institutions, entrepreneurs, and communities across Michigan.

JURISPRUDENCE | Tech Week GR
Presented by The Midwest Tech Project

The Midwest Tech Project is excited to welcome to our forum JURISPRUDENCE Tuesday Sept. 15th at Start Garden in Bamboo ...
08/25/2026

The Midwest Tech Project is excited to welcome to our forum JURISPRUDENCE Tuesday Sept. 15th at Start Garden in Bamboo Bamboo during Week GR. This timely conversation will explore the intersection of technology, law, business, cybersecurity, and our rapidly evolving innovation economy.

Shepherd is the Managing Partner at Mavacy, where he oversees the firm’s strategy, innovation, and client service. With more than 20 years of experience in litigation and cybersecurity, Martin has built and led cybersecurity practices at multiple firms, advised critical infrastructure clients on SOC 2 and CISA standards, and established an impressive record in high-stakes litigation. He also serves as Chairman of CYDEF, a global cybersecurity company.

A recognized thought leader in cybersecurity and data privacy, Martin has advanced cybersecurity education through collaborations with Carnegie Mellon University and service on numerous nonprofit and advisory boards. His expertise spans civil litigation, cybersecurity and data privacy, emerging companies and venture capital, general counsel, construction, sports and entertainment, and law firm succession planning.

Martin earned his B.S. from Miami University, his J.D. from The Ohio State University College of Law, and an Executive Leadership Certificate from Carnegie Mellon University.

We look forward to having Martin bring his unique perspective to JURISPRUDENCE as we examine how law and policy must evolve alongside emerging technologies—and what that evolution means for businesses, institutions, entrepreneurs, and communities across Michigan.

JURISPRUDENCE | Tech Week GR
Presented by The Midwest Tech Project

Technology Law InnovationEconomy MichiganTech

We are so excited to attend & participate in the ‘Innovators Summit’ at 🏟️Tuesday April 21st (World Innovation Day 🌎) ...
03/31/2026

We are so excited to attend & participate in the ‘Innovators Summit’ at 🏟️

Tuesday April 21st (World Innovation Day 🌎) 🗓️

1pm - 5pm 🕰️

📍

460 West Western Ave, Muskegon MI 49440

The INNOVATORS SUMMIT — will be a high-energy, half-day experience bringing together entrepreneurs, founders, creators, business leaders, and forward-thinkers from across the region. This is where bold ideas spark, connections happen, and momentum builds.

🔥 Why attend?
• Get inspired by innovative companies
• Discover new ideas, tools, and opportunities
• Build meaningful connections with people shaping what’s next

🎟️ Don’t wait — secure your spot today! Register to attend:
👉 https://www.gvsu.edu/mihub/muskegoninnovatorssummit2026

💡 Are you an innovative business in the Muskegon area?
Showcase your company and innovation for engaged attendees. Apply to showcase your business:
👉 https://forms.gle/ZrCB3cvyQWJt459K6

🌐 Learn more about the summit:
👉 https://muskegoninnovatorssummit.com

Spots are limited. Energy will be high. Opportunities will be everywhere.

BIG IDEAS Happen Here


This evening, March 26 | ⬅️ at We are excited to announce will be a panelist/participant at Foodie Connect GR. Kirel...
03/26/2026

This evening, March 26 | ⬅️ at

We are excited to announce will be a panelist/participant at Foodie Connect GR.

Kirel Shaw, widely known as , is the chef and owner of Mizizi by Street Chef Shaw. His path from the food truck scene to launching his own restaurant highlights the passion and real-world experience he brings to the industry.

Foodie Connect GR: Networking + Panel Discussions | by x x

Bringing together food lovers, hospitality professionals, entrepreneurs, & creatives from across West Michigan to connect, share perspectives, and grow the Grand Rapids foodie ecosystem.





MichiganMade

This evening, March 26 | ⬅️ at We are excited to announce will be a panelist/participant at Foodie Connect GR.Edwin...
03/26/2026

This evening, March 26 | ⬅️ at

We are excited to announce will be a panelist/participant at Foodie Connect GR.

Edwin Collazo, CEO of City Built Brewing Company, brings innovation and collaboration to the food and beverage scene while creating space for chefs and brands to grow together.

Foodie Connect GR: Networking + Panel Discussions | by x x

Bringing together food lovers, hospitality professionals, entrepreneurs, & creatives from across West Michigan to connect, share perspectives, and grow the Grand Rapids foodie ecosystem.





This Thursday, March 26 | ⬅️ at We are excited to announce Kate V will be a panelist/participant at Foodie Connect G...
03/26/2026

This Thursday, March 26 | ⬅️ at

We are excited to announce Kate V will be a panelist/participant at Foodie Connect GR.

Kate is the CEO of Taste of GR Walking Food Tours - creating unique culinary experiences that showcase the restaurants, stories, and culture of Grand Rapids. Her perspective brings a fresh look at how food connects people to the city.

Foodie Connect GR: Networking + Panel Discussions | by x x

Bringing together food lovers, hospitality professionals, entrepreneurs, & creatives from across West Michigan to connect, share perspectives, and grow the Grand Rapids foodie ecosystem.





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