Ann Arbor SPARK released its 2018 third-quarter report highlighting recent economic activity and successes in Livingston County. Ann Arbor SPARK partners with the Economic Development Council of Livingston County (EDCLC) to expand economic opportunity throughout the region. The EDCLC established an ongoing partnership Ann Arbor SPARK in 2011 to provide economic development services to businesses in the area.
“2018 is shaping up to be another successful year for economic development within Livingston County,” said Phil Santer, Ann Arbor SPARK vice president, business development. “Events like Manufacturing Day and the EDCLC Annual Meeting highlight the enormous career opportunities and resources for businesses and job seekers alike available here.”
Key Highlights:
The first Livingston County Manufacturing Day 2018 was a huge success with more than 275 participants — ranking it first in the state among other Manufacturing Day events launched within the past five years. The event was made possible with a grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation and the dedication of countless volunteers from community chambers of commerce, area high schools, Mott Community College, Michigan Works! Southeast, the Workforce Intelligence Network, and Ann Arbor SPARK.
Hatch Stamping recently announced an expansion project at its Howell Township robotics facility, doubling the facility space to 100,000 square feet. The Chelsea, Mich-based company anticipates the expansion will create demand for new jobs at the plant. Ann Arbor SPARK will work closely with Hatch and Howell Township throughout the development process.
Upcoming Initiatives:
Ann Arbor SPARK, along with 100 other organizations and businesses, will be exhibiting at the MiCareerQuest Southeast on November 28 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, Mich. The event is the region’s largest interactive career exploration event for high school students.
Michigan Works! Southeast received a record-breaking number of applications to the Going Pro Talent Fund, with a large portion of the applications coming from Livingston County companies. Going Pro is a statewide opportunity to provide assistance to companies that want to train employees with transferable skills or credentials. Award winners will be announced before the 2019 program begins.
ABOUT ANN ARBOR SPARK
Ann Arbor SPARK, a non-profit organization, is advancing the region by encouraging and supporting business acceleration, attraction and retention. The organization identifies and meets the needs of business at every stage, from start-ups to large organizations. Ann Arbor SPARK collaborates with business, academic, government, and community investor partners to achieve its mission. For more information, please call (734) 761-9317 or visit www.AnnArborUSA.org.
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