Internet Deuce
By: Terry Parris Jr., 5/14/2008
The future is here! Or, at least, it's being developed here in Ann Arbor. Internet2 will revolutionize the information age, allowing the seamless delivery of information across the globe. Its implications are vast and wide, transforming everything from astronomy to media to medicine. Think the world's small now? It's about to get a whole lot smaller.
Michigan Growth Capital Symposium
By: Jeff Meyers, 5/14/2008
Once upon a time, our auto industry was founded on the visions of its leaders and the risks investors took supporting them. Venture capital is the fuel that drives the engine of innovation. So, where do promising new local companies go to raise funds? For 27 years the
Michigan Growth Capital Symposium has helped provide an answer. The annual two-day event starts today in Ypsilanti. Could it provide the missing link in Michigan's economic evolution?
Down On The Farm With Zingerman's
By: Terry Parris Jr., 5/7/2008
First it was bread. Then butter and cheese. Now it's veggies. Zingerman's lives up to the saying: "If you want to do something right, do it yourself." Case in point: The six acres (expected to grow to 100) at Cornman Farms, where 'authentic' produce is grown to fill the dinner plates at Zingerman's Roadhouse. Come and get it!
MASTERMIND: Wendy Batiste-Johnson
By: Amy Whitesall, 5/7/2008
It's one thing to improve the look of your customers. It's quite another to improve the look of your neighborhood. And yet, that's just what Wendy Batiste-Johnson has done with her downtown Ann Arbor boutique. While street after street fills up with chain-store restaurants and retail, Possh proves that locally owned businesses can not only compete but become community tastemakers.
A3C: Greener Than Thou
By: Jon Zemke, 4/30/2008
Green construction may be all the rage but the truth is very few buildings actually achieve a smaller carbon footprint. And then there's the Ann Arbor Architects Collaborative (A3C). Retrofitting an 80+ year old storefront in downtown, the 25 year-old firm has spared no detail in its quest to create a model for urban sustainability.
MASTERMIND: Linda Girard
By: Amy Whitesall, 4/23/2008
Whether it's web optimization or life optimization, Linda Girard has the kind of vision, energy and confidence others look up on Google. Co-founder of the successful Internet marketing company, Pure Visibility, she's translated a Life 2.0 philosophy into Web 2.0 business savvy.
Information Evolution
By: Tanya Muzumdar, 4/23/2008
Computer science + design + social science = Innovation. Concentrate checks out the student projects at the University of Michigan's School of Information and witnesses the next evolutionary stage in information technology.
Art Counts In Washtenaw County
By: Leia Menlove, 4/16/2008
Not only can arts and culture mean big bucks for the local economy, it's an important part of the formula for attracting and keeping young professional talent. But how do you meaningfully track the health of Washtenaw County's arts community? The Ann Arbor Arts Alliance hopes to find the answer with its "Arts Count," artists' census.
Coworking: Solo But Not Alone
By: Amy Whitesall, 4/9/2008
One is the loneliest number no more. As micro start-ups and independent freelancers proliferate, new economy Ann Arborites are discovering the joys of coworking. From cafes to rent-a-desks to drop-in workspaces, they're recreating all the benefits of office life ...without the boss.
MASTERMIND: James Marks
By: Terry Parris, Jr., 4/9/2008
As much of the economy goes global, James Marks of Ypsilanti's VGKids finds that there's plenty of success to be found locally. Paradoxically, this success has given him both a national reputation and the opportunity to expand his business to the west coast.
Ghostly International
By: Amy Whitesall, 4/2/2008
From Halo to Hummer, Ann Arbor-based Ghostly International may be musical tastemakers to the world but founder Sam Valenti IV is really just preserving his legacy as the cool neighborhood record-store guy.
MASTERMIND: Christen McArdle
By: Amy Whitesall, 3/19/2008
Quality or quantity? Freedom or funding? Spend ten minutes with Christen McArdle, the Executive Director of the Ann Arbor Film Festival, and it's clear which she'll choose. It takes leadership, creativity and stamina to run the oldest avant garde film fest in North America ...especially when it's underfunded and under fire. It takes a mastermind to make it thrive.
Investing In Vintage Ypsi
By: Jon Zemke, 3/18/2008
There are two sides to every economic story. While the region reels from falling house prices, the Maurer family sees the downturn as an opportunity to step in and rehabilitate many of Ypsilanti's glorious Victorian homes. Far from opportunists, their mission is to rejuvenate what might otherwise remain neglected.
The Metro Toddler
By: Amy Kuras, 2/14/2008
As Generations X and Y reach their childrearing years, they find few family-time options that reflect their desire to swim against the mainstream. From urban to urbane, there's a growing national trend for play spaces and social groups that cater to hip kids.
Two Wheel Revolution
By: Tanya Muzumdar, 2/7/2008
Long intimidated by automotive roadhogs, cyclists are reclaiming their rightful place along the nation's highways and byways. From hilly Seattle to dense beyond dense New York City, bike lanes are becoming the urban standard.
Metromode's Tanya Muzumdar looks at how Metro Detroit stacks up.
MODErn Living
By: Jon Zemke, 2/7/2008
Basho said, "Every day is a journey, and the journey itself is home." Some Metro Detroiters are taking those words to heart and making their house the adventure.
Hipsilanti
By: Amy Kuras, 1/24/2008
"The Brooklyn to Ann Arbor's Manhattan." No longer content to live in The Deuce's shadow, Ypsilanti is emerging as an affordable alternative for both creative and professional types. Viva La Differance!
A Hand Out
By: Tanya Muzumdar, 1/10/2008
Looking for a New Year's resolution? Whether it's teaching kids to write or maintaining park trails, volunteerism is changing Metro Detroit for the better. As anthropologist Margaret Mead once said, "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has."
Made In Michigan: Indie Film
By: Brian G. Walsh, 12/13/2007
Technology and the Internet have created incredible opportunities for budding moviemakers and Michigan has no shortage of dedicated film artists. But building an industry from scratch means keeping the talent here. Metromode introduces you to a few indie filmmakers determined to find success and stay local.
Drilling Deep: Geothermal Heat
By: Kelli B Kavanaugh, 11/15/2007
If the thought of plummeting temps and skyrocketing heating costs make you want to bury your head in the sand, maybe you should dig a little deeper and start drilling for energy. Geothermal heating systems have long been touted for their "green" benefits. Who knew its supporters were referring to cold hard cash?
SE Michigan's Blogger Nation
By: Lucy Ament, 11/1/2007
Whatever your opinion, there's no denying that bloggers are dismantling the wall between the public and the press, creating a virtual underground for ideas and opinions. And SE Michigan has more than its fair share of citizen journalists, armchair politicos, cultural pioneers and cranks just
City Vs. State
By: Jon Zemke, 11/1/2007
Some say the same top-down mentality that has stymied Michigan's ability to expand and diversify its economy is also preventing local governments from initiating bold new policies, putting the breaks on everything from smoke-free spaces to cable access to green building incentives. How does Michigan encourage its cities to think outside the box if the Capitol keeps a firm hand on the lid?
Michigan's Foodie Nation
By: Tanya Muzumdar, 10/25/2007
Once upon a time ketchup was the most exotic spice found in Midwest pantries. No more. Foodie-friendly shops are are popping up all over SE Michigan to satisfy our new found craving for exotic, gourmet and artisan foods. Metromode points you toward a few of the best.
Downtowns Become Boomertowns
By: Nancy Kaffer, 10/25/2007
As Gen-Xers become homebuyers and baby boomers become empty nesters, seniors are reconsidering their suburban retirement options and choosing downtown living. These "ruppies" bring more than just money to urban neighborhoods, they also bring a commitment to getting involved.
From Plot To Plate: SE Michigan's Urban Gardens
By: Amy Whitesall, 10/18/2007
From fresh veggies to healthier neighborhoods; SE Michigan's communities are learning that when it comes to the benefits of community gardens, food is just the beginning.
Size Matters
By: Jon Zemke, 10/4/2007
To touch the sky or keep things human size? SE Michigan's revitalized downtowns are struggling with the size of their buildings as young professionals look for a more urban experience, leaders see density as a way to combat sprawl and long-time residents worry their community's unique character is compromised.
Show Me The Money: VC In MI
By: Jon Zemke, 9/20/2007
Everyone knows that success requires a bit of inspiration and a whole lot of perspiration. But there's a third part of the equation Michigan can't afford to ignore if it hopes to transform its economy: Investment. Jon Zemke takes a look at the current state of our venture capital.
In Pfizer's Wake
By: Tanya Muzumdar, 9/13/2007
Pfizer walks out the door and opportunity comes in through the window. Ann Arbor takes inspiration from another Michigan community's post-Pfizer successes and seeds the ground with start ups, SPARK and state support.
Place Matters
By: Amy E. Whitesall, 9/5/2007
Job, schmob. Location is where it's at. More and more young professionals are settling into communities that match their lifestyle, then finding jobs that complete the picture.
Michigan Jobs 2.0
By: Kimberly Chou, 8/30/2007
As Michigan evolves its economy, innovative high-tech companies are successfully planting their flags in uncharted territory. For job seekers, however, it means applying for a position that didn't exist five years ago. Kimberly Chou takes a look at three local companies and the cutting edge jobs they're creating.
Accent Reduction Institute
By: Amy Whitesall, 8/9/2007
Judy Ravin has helped people speak clearly for 15 years, but her accent reduction business is booming as the world gets smaller and the workforce gets more diverse.
Google High
By: Alex Dziadosz, 8/2/2007
Along with the promise of 1,000 new jobs, Google's Adwords office is embracing Ann Arbor in unexpected ways: assisting local non-profits and even teaching high school.
Greenways = Greenbacks
By: Jon Zemke, 8/2/2007
Green spaces are not only good for quality of life, environment and recreation, they can also boost the local economy. Think of them as a way to increase your bottom line while reducing your bottom size.
Good Things Come In Small Packages
By: Alex Dziadosz, 7/26/2007
Since the decline of the Big Three, it's become clear Michigan businesses need a new model. As technology firms pop up, and global communications allow small companies to compete internationally like never before, more start-ups are realizing that it pays to be David when you're battling Goliaths.
Investing In Michigan
By: Scott Paul Dunham, 7/12/2007
For 26 years the Michigan Growth Capital Symposium has paired exciting new start-ups with eager financiers. While a lot of attention is paid to those companies that find investment, it's the venture capitalists who provide fuel for the fire... and 75% of those who attend are from out of state.
Foragers Guide To Employee Perks
By: Kimberly Chou, 6/28/2007
Last month's open house at Google AdWords in Ann Arbor caught the eyes of many 9 to 5ers left wondering why their companies don't provide catered lunches, free massages or superhero cubicle décor. Where are the Michigan businesses with benefits beyond the 401k? And why aren't there more of them? The region has some catching up to do when it comes to unorthodox work perks and places, but there's hope yet.
whiteMAKO
By: Alex Dziadosz, 6/21/2007
Ready or not here he comes! There are plenty of 20 year-olds who think they can change the world but how many of them have started a lucrative web design and multimedia firm at age thirteen? Meet Chris Mwakasisi, CEO of whiteMAKO.
The Kids Are Alright
By: Kimberly Chou, 5/31/2007
When we talk about quality of life issues, who considers the region's sizable teen population? Ann Arbor's Neutral Zone is setting the bar for teen community centers, making use of the latest technologies and trends while nurturing the kind of homegrown talent Michigan desperately needs.
Can You Say Oliebollen?
By: Kimberly Chou, 5/24/2007
"No, that bib doesn't come in scotch plaid." Fashionable kids clothes really are out there--and Oliebollen, an Ann Arbor online store, helps sartorial young parents find them all in one place.
Google Arrives In Ann Arbor
By: Jeff Meyers, 5/22/2007
With much hoopla, Google held a formal open house for their new Adwords division in downtown Ann Arbor. Metromode went on the tour, sampled the buffet and saw more lava lamps and Mr. Potato Heads than you could possibly imagine.
Some Assembly Required
By: Jon Zemke, 3/29/2007
Come and get it! For some, the sit down family meal may sound like something out of a Norman Rockwell painting. But prepared gourmet meal services and personal chefs are turning grab-and-run meals into dinner hour adventures.
DIY Design
By: Kimberly Chou, 3/22/2007
Tired of 'big box' fashion and assembly line design? In Ypsilanti, a group of underground entrepeneurs have found a way to brand personal expression and build businesses that cater to the cult of authenticity.
Put Your Money Where Your Art Is
By: Jon Zemke, 3/1/2007
Some neo-realism with your money market account? How about fairy dust with that root canal? Local businesses are partnering with artists to help sculpt an identity that stands out against a landscape littered with cookie-cutter chainstores.
ReCellular Rings Green
By: Jon Zemke, 2/22/2007
Recycle your newspaper, plastic tubs, soup cans and ... your Blackberry? Dexter-based ReCellular recycles cell phones. The growing company has found a niche that's made profits and has people taking notice of its green ways.
Jolly Pumpkin Ales
By: Kimberly Chou, 2/8/2007
In just a few short years, Jolly Pumpkin Artisan Ales has established itself as one of the premiere microbreweries in the nation. A family operation, its award-winning ales may just turn Michigan into the go-to state for hand crafted beers.
A2 Rallies for Rails
By: Jon Zemke, 2/1/2007
Ann Arbor has become a leading advocate for regional mass transit, lobbying hard for a pair of commuter train lines that could connect key parts of Metro Detroit and be an important part of the region's transformation.
Building the Third Coast
By: Tanya Muzumdar, 1/25/2007
Venture capital long has been the province of the Silicon Valley and Boston-area firms. It helps create fertile ground for entrepreneurs — just the folks who hold the keys to Michigan's economy in the long-run.
The Real Big Three
By: Ann Schimke, 1/18/2007
What drives the economy? The real Big Three — the big universities in Detroit, Ann Arbor and E. Lansing, bringing in hundreds of millions of research dollars, and fostering jobs and start-up companies.
Ann Arbor, Welcome Detroit
By: Mike Ramsey, 1/10/2007
Ann Arbor needs Detroit. Detroit needs Ann Arbor. As much as these places are their own communities, they need one another more than ever.