Michael Laine has been involved with Space Elevator research since 2001 – the definitive NASA Institute for Advanced Concepts study. At the conclusion, Laine used the accumulated knowledge to form LiftPort Group to push forward the concept and commercially construct an Elevator on the Moon. Laine is President of LiftPort Group – the commercial effort to build the Space Elevator. LiftPort Group is an “idea factory” focused on commercializing the spin-off technologies developed in pursuit of the Lunar Space Elevator Infrastructure. A teenage fan once said that Michael Laine was building “the biggest thing, ever!” – our Lunar Space Elevator Infrastructure. He and his team of accomplished engineers (and a legion of other specialists!) think we can build the Lunar Elevator in 7-9 years for $800M. Laine’s array of professional experiences – U.S. Marine, investment advisor, internet entrepreneur and real estate developer – have each contributed to the global program of building the Space Elevator. Laine is leading the effort to build a new Institute focused on commercial development of space; Chairs the Keiretsu Forum’s Space Committee; and is Past President of the U.S. Alumni Association for the International Space University.