Please Note: Space is limited for the in person option.

Open your mind to a new way of learning with timely topics that are entirely free for MICPA members. You won’t want to miss our showcase event!

Looking for extra flexibility? You can attend the program virtually, instead. Click here for details on the virtual option.

AGENDA

8:00 AM – 8:50 AM
Unlocking the Hidden Value of Employee Benefits
Get an inside look at the complexities of employee benefits and uncover strategies to maximize value while controlling costs. Equip yourself with the knowledge to ask the right questions, push for better coverage, and explore cost-saving opportunities like self-insured programs that cap risk exposure.
Shawn Spencer – CEO & Founder, Cogent Advisors, Royal Oak

9:00 AM – 9:50 AM
Optimizing Commercial Insurance: Best Practices for Cost & Coverage
Maximize the value of your commercial insurance with expert insights on pricing, coverage, and strategic cost-saving opportunities. Explore market benchmarks, credit and discount strategies, and common pitfalls to avoid when selecting and renewing policies.
Brian Pilarski, MBA, CIC, LIC – Commercial Risk & Insurance, Senior Vice President, Commercial Risk Consultant, Kapnick, Troy

10:00 AM – 10:50 AM
Using Microsoft Copilot to Reach New Heights
Originally released in November of 2023, Microsoft 365 Copilot uses large language models to streamline certain administrative tasks. Explore Copilot in a live demonstration, including how to give effective prompts, generate transcripts, rearrange information in a Word document, generate communications, create presentations and more.
Roel Alcantar Luna – Senior Manager, Business Process Automation, Protiviti
Kathy Spearing – Regional Vice President – Managed Business Solutions, Protiviti

11:00 AM – 11:50 AM
Partnering With the SBA to Support Small Business Growth & Acquisitions
While many organizations apply for U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) loans every year, understanding the different options available is crucial for CPAs working closely with clients to secure funding. Learn the basics of SBA 504 and 7(a) loans, including eligibility requirements and their respective application processes. Plus, explore the pros and cons of SBA loans and evaluate the top considerations for determining when SBA loans are the right option.
Eric Kehler – Vice President of SBA 504 Lending, Michigan Certified Development Corporation
Steve Pricco – Director of Government Lending (SBA), Michigan Certified Development Corporation

11:50 AM – 12:10 PM
Break for Lunch

12:10 PM – 1:00 PM
2025 Labor Law Updates & Compliance Strategies
Major labor law changes are on the horizon—are you prepared? This session breaks down key updates, including the Earned Sick Time Act, Federal Minimum Wage Act, NLRB rulings, and evolving paid leave policies. Learn how these changes impact businesses, payroll, and compliance, and explore best practices to equip your finance and HR teams for a smooth implementation.
Marc C. Knoth, JD – Member, Kerr Russell, Detroit