FuturTech is the University of Michigan's premier business and technology conference, bringing together thought leaders and top talent from large companies, small business, non-profits, and academia. Events include a tech fair, panel discussions, two keynote speakers, and a case competition. FuturTech is organized by students from the Ross School of Business, the College of Engineering, and the School of Information.

The first iPod cost $400, held 1,000 songs, and needed a charge every 10 hours. Seven years later and half the size, the 2008 iPod costs $250, holds 25,000 songs, and outlasts its ancestor with a battery that keeps on going for 36 hours.

Markets and technology make a great team. Competition drives costs down and inspires innovation. Technology improves productivity and the bottom line. What's next?

• little things - mobile opportunities, communication and information devices, ubiquitous computing
• personalization - custom products, behavioral targeting, gene-based medicine, location-based services
• less impact - conservation, recycling, oil rehab, and how to get more miles from the pump
• niche markets - finding your audience online, start ups, social networks

The Next Small Thing is use less, get more. Contact us to get involved.