The Michigan Israel Business Accelerator (MIBA) has appointed Howard Handler as its new chairman of the board of directors.
Handler succeeds Matt Elliott, who has served in the role since 2021 and steered the organization through a period of unprecedented growth and impact.
As President of 313 Presents – the live entertainment company behind all the shows at iconic venues including Little Caesars Arena, Pine Knob and the Fox Theatre – Handler brings deep experience in innovation, community engagement, and high-impact partnerships.
A long-time MIBA board member, he has led major initiatives across media, sports, entertainment, and economic development that align closely with MIBA’s mission. His recent engagement with Israel’s sports-tech sector, facilitated by MIBA, highlights his commitment to connecting Michigan’s dynamic industries with Israel’s world-renowned entrepreneurial ecosystem.
“MIBA has become a powerful bridge between Michigan’s economic engine and Israel’s culture of innovation,” says Handler. “I’m honored to help lead this next chapter — strengthening partnerships that drive growth, creativity, and shared prosperity in both regions.
“Building on the strong foundation laid by Matt and our incredible team, we will accelerate even more collaborations that drive jobs, growth, and mutual prosperity for both regions.”
MIBA is a nonprofit organization whose mission is focused on the stewardship and growth of the bi-lateral Michigan-Israel economic and business relationships. By serving as the central repository of information on economic connections between Michigan and Israel, MIBA acts as the primary catalyst to leverage the highest value from such partnerships, driving job creation, innovation, and economic development for both regions.
