In 2000, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation launched the Michigan SmartZoneSM Network—an innovative, statewide, technology business acceleration strategy to build entrepreneurial talent and infrastructure.
Today, Michigan is home to 15 SmartZones in distinct geographical locations, each anchored by an academic institution and supported by the local communities. Technology-based firms, entrepreneurs and researchers are clustered and connected to the collective assets of the region and benefit from the collaborative relationships among universities, industry, and government to commercialize novel technologies.
Michigan’s 15 SmartZones, each unique to their regional needs, include technology business accelerators and incubators that provide the critical entrepreneurial and commercialization support services essential to growing start-up ventures. From clean rooms and wet lab space, to product development guidance, coaching for business plan pitches and access to seed capital, the Michigan SmartZone network is the framework around which the state’s entrepreneurial and innovation ecosystem has blossomed.
