Ann Arbor, Michigan is home to a top-ranked public university and a broad range of advanced industries and markets. This diversity fosters a resilient region with a rich talent pool. Ann Arbor SPARK, the regional economic development organization, works with private, public, nonprofit, and academic organizations to retain and attract companies, as well as nurture startups.

The University of Michigan (U-M) ranks among the world’s top universities and its graduate and professional programs are consistently listed among the nation’s top ten. As with many college towns, the university is the region’s largest employer.

Key Regional Industries and Markets

Advanced Automotive And Mobility

Noteworthy is the region’s reputation as a vibrant hub and living lab for automotive and mobility innovation. Companies ranging in size from OEMs, such as the Toyota Motor North America R&D Headquarters, to state-of-the-art startups like May Mobility, call the Ann Arbor region home.

Information Technology

Information technology (IT) has evolved significantly since the early days of computing. Now, it’s ubiquitous across industries and a daily component of modern life. The Ann Arbor region is home to early-stage and enterprise companies that connect and inform our lives. Whether it’s through academic database portals like those from ProQuest or the Ann Arbor-based startup InfoReady, these platforms are often the key deliverable that defines a business. Discover more about the region’s visionary IT sector.

Biotechnology & Life Sciences

While Ann Arbor’s life sciences sector has seen rapid growth over the past decade, the region has always excelled in the biotech industry. For example, the heart-lung machine used in the first heart transplant was developed and manufactured here.

Advanced Manufacturing

The Ann Arbor region boasts a dynamic advanced manufacturing ecosystem, propelled by strong educational programs such as the Michigan FAME Mitten Chapter, significant technological investments, and a highly skilled workforce. These elements, supported by community and federal initiatives like the GEM, Industry Infinity, and other programs, create a fertile environment for innovation and growth in high-tech manufacturing.

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Research and Development

With expenditures greater than $1.5 billion, research is at the heart of the University of Michigan. This focus significantly influences additional R&D efforts in the region. Frequently, companies grow within the university and then spin out to find a permanent home and much success in Ann Arbor.