Northern Michigan University alumnus David Kronberg was recently appointed the first director of entrepreneurial services and outreach for Innovate Marquette SmartZone. As part of his new role, he directs the student-powered idea incubator, Invent@NMU. He is also focused on building both resources and relationships with local entrepreneurs and tech startups to foster a robust, supportive business and startup ecosystem in Marquette.
Kronberg earned a bachelor of fine arts degree from NMU in 1991, and a master's in 1994. He is an accomplished entrepreneur, product and space designer, and community advocate who recently relocated to Marquette from Cheboygan.
“Being part of Innovate Marquette SmartZone brings all of my career strengths and experiences together focused on the noble purpose of cultivating a healthy economic ecosystem in Marquette and the greater U.P.,” Kronberg said, “We left Marquette in 2000 to pursue my career and I feel like the luckiest entrepreneur anywhere to be able continue it here, doing what I love: building business with talented and passionate people in the most beautiful place on earth.”
“Dave brings passion, dedication and industry knowledge to the table for both our organization and the greater Marquette community,” said fellow NMU alumnus Joe Thiel, CEO of Innovate Marquette. “We believe in both building and bringing existing businesses into the 21st century, and to do that you need a team with creative vision and a sense of purpose. We've built that over the last year and Dave is the perfect addition.”
Through his academic experience in art, design and education Kronberg launched his career as a museum designer and creative technical consultant producing immersive story-telling environments as principal partner in Van Abel and Kronberg Design LLC. At the same time, he had a rewarding career building business in advanced and heavy manufacturing and several start-up ventures. An Innovate Marquette feature story provides more details on Kronberg and his experience.
In addition to his role at Innovate Marquette, Kronberg serves on the boards of directors for the Fresh Coast Film Festival and the MATI Arts, Theater and Innovation Company, and is a commissioner for the Cheboygan City Planning Commission.
Learn more about Innovate Marquette SmartZone here, and find information about Invent@NMU here.