Discovering and applying new and innovative economic development tools, models, policies, and programs
Creating Jobs and Wealth in Distressed Michigan Communities

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Instructor and Project Advisor, School of Business and Economics, Michigan Technological University

Jonathan Leinonen
Jonathan Leinonen

Jonathan Leinonen brings nearly 30 years of experience in academia and industry, having worked among all stages of the innovation and economic development lifecycle through the MTEC SmartZone business accelerator, the Michigan Small Business Development Center, and numerous private organizations ranging from tech startup and capital formation to exporting and acquisitions.  He continues to teach and mentor clients through commercialization methodologies including the NSF-ICORPS Lean Startup program. He also oversees funded companies and projects through Superior Innovations, a private investment company and the Michigan Translational Research and Commercialization program, together having generated significant investments and commercial progress. Previously Jonathan worked as a multi-national firm's product portfolio manager, directing and developing a software business that grew to nearly $10 million in annual revenue prior to selling the business.