Partners

The MI-SBDC network provides a full range of services and tools for small businesses emerging and growing in Michigan’s 83 counties. The organization’s Small Business, Technology, Manufacturing Assistance and Growth Group teams are dedicated to provide expert assistance to the individual needs of Michigan’s small businesses. With offices statewide, the MI-SBDC positively impacts Michigan’s economy by strengthening companies, creating new jobs, retaining existing jobs and assisting companies define their path to success.

With more years of economic development experience than any other state, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation is considered one of the most effective business development corporation in the nation today. Its mission is keeping good jobs in Michigan and attracting more of them to the state.

For over 25 years MichBio has been driving bio-industry growth in Michigan by providing access to resources and information critical to success, advocating for policy decisions that support the long-term viability of the life sciences, and connecting the people, companies, and ideas necessary to create the next generation of bio-innovation.

Southwest Michigan First is a privately funded, 501 (c) (3) non-profit corporation formed by business and higher education leaders to promote economic development in Kalamazoo and the southwest Michigan region. Its mission is to retain, expand and attract businesses in the region.

Founded by the Van Andel family in 1996, VAI is home to nearly 500 scientists, educators and staff – each one deeply connected to the work they do and driven by an urgent desire to improve health and enhance lives.

Western Michigan University is a vibrant, nationally recognized student-centered research institution with an enrollment of nearly 30,000. WMU is focused on delivering high-quality undergraduate instruction, advancing its growing graduate division and fostering significant research activities.

The WMed Innovation Center is one part economic growth engine, one part technology enabler. It offers office space, equipment, common areas, managerial and technical assistance. By putting like-minded firms together in an environment built for growth, the Innovation Center creates cost-efficiencies and opportunities for very productive partnerships.