Artificial intelligence isn’t a buzzword — it’s a rapidly evolving set of tools with the power to transform industries, solve complex problems and reshape the way we live and work. But alongside these opportunities come important questions for policymakers: How should we think about innovation and risk? What role should government play? And how can we avoid the unintended consequences of outdated regulations or overzealous restrictions?
Join us for a conversation with Chris Koopman, CEO of the Abundance Institute, as he demystifies artificial intelligence and lays out a practical vision for its role in a thriving society. Drawing from his background in economics and policy, Koopman will explore how AI can improve lives, what barriers stand in the way, and how smart governance — not heavy-handed control — can help unlock its full potential. This is a must-attend event for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, innovation, and public policy.
Joseph G. Lehman, president of the Mackinac Center, will provide an update on current issues facing Michigan today.
Thursday, September 11, 2025
Breakfast Buffet: 7:30-8:00 a.m.
Presentation: 8:00-9:00 a.m.
The Townsend Hotel
Regency Room
100 Townsend Street
Birmingham, MI 48009
Call our Events office at
Event is free, but RSVP is necessary by September 8.
Register online
Joseph G. Lehman
President
Mackinac Center for Public Policy
Chris Koopman
CEO
Abundance Institute
Christopher Koopman is the CEO at the Abundance Institute. He specializes in regulation, competition, and innovation. His research and commentary has appeared in The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, The Washington Post, USA Today, Bloomberg, and NPR. He is also a contributor at The Hill and was named to Forbes' 30 Under 30 in 2016 for law and policy. In 2021, Chris was appointed by Governor Spencer Cox to serve a four-year term on Utah's Personal Privacy Oversight Commission.
Prior to joining the Abundance Institute, Chris was Executive Director of the Center for Growth and Opportunity at Utah State University. He also previously served as a senior research fellow and director of the Technology Policy Program at the Mercatus Center at George Mason University. He is currently a Senior Affiliated Scholar with the Mercatus Center and a member of the IT & Emerging Technology Working Group at the Federalist Society's Regulatory Transparency Project.
