Innovation & Job News

Ypsilanti’s SPARK East incubator receives $250,000 in grant funding

Wednesday, April 08, 2009

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Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor SPARK's East incubator in Ypsilanti landed a little bit of green ($250,000) from the Michigan Strategic Fund.

The Strategic Fund's money comes from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and the state. The money is supposed to help get the fledgling incubator off the ground.

"It will help us with the operating costs for the facility," says Michael Finney, president and CEO of Ann Arbor SPARK. "It will cover a little bit of everything."

Ann Arbor SPARK opened its third incubator in downtown Ypsilanti earlier this year. There are now four companies in its 8,000 square feet facing Michigan Avenue, next to Bombadill’s Cafe. The four start-ups are LaVision, SENSEI Change Associates, Brainstorm Creative and Smart Dining.

The incubator offers two conference rooms, utilities, high-speed Internet, copiers and convenient parking for its tenants. It also provides expert business support from Ann Arbor SPARK and provides numerous opportunities to network with other new economy entrepreneurs. For information on leasing space click here or send an email to shamar@annarborusa.org or call (734) 527-9171.

Source: Michael Finney, president and CEO of Ann Arbor SPARK
Writer: Jon Zemke