DATE: 3-5 p.m. May 11, 2009.

EVENT: Partnership for an Innovation Economy is a town hall-style gathering that will focus on ways the University of Michigan can strengthen collaborations with the business community. The event features two panel discussions, a report on economic development initiatives, and an update on the U-M’s potential plans for the Pfizer site.

Panel members feature U-M research and economic development experts, as well as business, industry and government leaders, including representatives from Ford Motor Co., A123Systems, Menlo Innovations and Ann Arbor SPARK.

A reception with hors d’oeuvres will follow. Docent-guided tours of the museum will be available during the reception. Broadcasters: A mult box will be available.

PLACE: University of Michigan Museum of Art, 525 S. State St., Ann Arbor.

PARKING: Free valet parking will be provided.

SPONSORS: Hosted by the University of Michigan and the Michigan Business Review. Sponsored by National City and Phire Branding Co.

RSVP: Online registration for this event has ended. If you plan to attend, please contact Jim Erickson by 5 p.m. on Friday, May 8. After that time, contact Laura Lessnau at (734) 647-1851.

WEB LINKS: The event program is available at http://innoecon.eventbrite.com. Learn more about the Innovation Economy at http://www.innovationeconomy.umich.edu.