DETROIT, Mich. – September 20, 2007…..James C. Epolito, president and CEO of the Michigan
Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) leads the list of top business leaders at E2detroit, the
premier entrepreneurial and excellence symposium at Wayne State University on Oct. 2, 2007.
E2detroit, the two-day symposium, occurring Oct. 1-2, will provide resources to
entrepreneurs and small business owners by bringing together the southeast regional leaders and business
community to share ideas about the tools and relationships necessary to launch and grow a successful
business.
During the E2detroit symposium, Epolito will discuss the efforts of the MEDC to execute its mission
of generating economic growth throughout Michigan. As the state’s economic development authority, the
MEDC encourages new capital investment and job creation by emphasizing Michigan’s strengths and
opportunities. Epolito and his team are working to transform the state’s economy through a strategic
plan that emphasizes diversification into high-tech, high-growth industries.
Leading the MEDC, Epolito has oversight for the administration of the 21st Century Jobs Fund
initiative and directs economic policy development, business retention and attraction, technology
development, trade and international investment, tourism promotion and marketing, and community
development functions.
In addition to his role with MEDC, Epolito serves in the Cabinet of Michigan Governor Jennifer M.
Granholm. He has responsibility for the successful implementation of the governor’s small-tech business
growth and jobs creation agenda. He works in coordination with the entire Cabinet and has a focus on job
creation through the following sectors; life sciences, alternative energy, advanced automotive
manufacturing and homeland security and defense.
Epolito joins many prominent businesspersons speaking at the event including former Detroit mayor,
Dennis Archer; President and CEO of The WW (Weight Watchers) Group, Inc., Florine Mark; CEO and
Founder of ePrize, Josh Linkner; President and Founder of Green Daisy Inc, Kim Lavine; and First
Gentleman, Dan Granholm Mulhern.
The host of E2detroit, Wayne State University Venture Development Office, works with faculty, staff,
students, and alumni to leverage Wayne State innovations and create early-stage technology companies.
The goal of the Venture Development Office is to establish the tools and relationships necessary to launch
a successful business. Judy Johncox is the current WSU Venture Development Office Director and has
brought countless companies to market.
Registration for E2detroit is $150 for business professionals and $25 for students. To register or for more
information, visit www.e2detroit.com or call (248) 275-1130.