Dear Partners, Funders, and Colleagues

As we reflect on the journey of Ann Arbor SPARK over the last two decades, it is with a deep sense of pride and accomplishment that we present to you our 2023 Annual Report. Under the leadership and vision of our board of directors, Ann Arbor SPARK has been a pivotal force in cultivating an ecosystem where innovation thrives, businesses flourish, and our community grows stronger together.

For 20 years, Ann Arbor SPARK has been at the forefront of driving economic development, fostering entrepreneurial opportunities, and enhancing community engagement. Our mission to ignite and propel the economy of the Ann Arbor region has never been more relevant or impactful than it is today. Through strategic partnerships, targeted investments, and a commitment to innovation, we have catalyzed significant growth and prosperity across our region.

The backbone of our success lies in the incredible companies that have chosen Ann Arbor as their home, contributing to the health and vibrancy of our region. Hyundai, KLA, Google, May Mobility, Sartorius, Wacker Chemical, Zoller, and Thai Summit are just a few of the industry leaders that have made substantial investments in our community, creating thousands of jobs, and demonstrating an unwavering commitment to our collective future. Their contributions not only highlight the strength and resilience of our local economy but also underscore the magnetic appeal of Ann Arbor as a premier destination for business growth and innovation, as well as research and development.

Our achievements are further illuminated by the global and national rankings that recognize Ann Arbor’s competitive edge. Ann Arbor consistently ranks among the best places to live, work, and play, thanks to its exceptional quality of life, world-class educational institutions, and a thriving innovation ecosystem. These accolades are a testament to the collaborative efforts of our partners, funders, and the broader community in creating an environment where businesses can start, scale, and succeed.

Why Ann Arbor, you might ask? The answer is clear. Our region offers a unique blend of cultural richness, entrepreneurial spirit, and a supportive community that is unmatched. From access to top talent emerging from the University of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University, and Washtenaw Community College, to the collaborative spirit that defines our local business landscape, Ann Arbor is the ideal destination for individuals and companies to succeed.

The foundation we have built in the last two decades creates the opportunity for even more success in the future. Our commitment to driving economic development, supporting entrepreneurial endeavors, and enhancing community engagement remains unwavering. Together, with your continued support and partnership, we are confident that Ann Arbor SPARK will continue to be a beacon of innovation and prosperity for many years to come.

On behalf of the Ann Arbor SPARK Board of Directors, I extend my deepest gratitude for your ongoing support, collaboration, and belief in our mission. Here’s to another 20 years of sparking growth, innovation, and opportunity in the Ann Arbor region.

Warmest regards,

David Ruud
CHAIR OF THE BOARD, ANN ARBOR SPARK

Dear Valued Partners, Entrepreneurs, and Community Members

This year’s Annual Meeting is a celebration of Ann Arbor SPARK’s 20 years of service. We are sharing the strides we made in 2023 and reflecting on the enduring impact our collective efforts have made since our inception. SPARK has played a key role in shaping a vibrant ecosystem where innovation, economic vitality, and community well-being intertwine.

In 2023, our dedication to nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit was exemplified through targeted initiatives and meaningful support. At SPARK East, we allocated more than $112K in grants, coupled with invaluable coaching and educational resources, directly benefiting 31 emerging startups. Through our efforts at SPARK East, we have been working hard to ensure all in our community can share in regional prosperity.

A pivotal moment this year was securing a $3.4M grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to expand our offerings to non-tech small businesses with a particular emphasis on the inclusion of owners from diverse backgrounds. These resources will ensure help more than 850 small enterprises, significantly amplifying our capacity to bolster local business growth and sustainability.

At the other end of the spectrum, Toyota’s $48M investment in a new battery laboratory further anchors our status as a nexus for cutting-edge research and development. This represents the fourth project that SPARK has facilitated for Toyota’s North America R&D center. Such investments underscore the robustness of our local economy and the fertile ground our community offers for technological advancements.

Addressing community needs, the Child Care Coalition initiative is an example of our holistic approach to economic development, tackling barriers that affect workforce participation and overall quality of life. Initiatives like these emphasize our commitment to a thriving, inclusive community.

The expansion of a2Tech360 and the resurgence of in-person events have been critical in reigniting connections within the tech and innovation sectors, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among stakeholders.

This year also saw significant progress for several companies in our investment portfolio, including Culturewell, Ulendo, Sniffer Robotics, Bedestrian, and Arbor Batteries. Their success, buoyed by strategic grants and fundraising, are examples of what our robust ecosystem can achieve.

Looking forward, the unveiling of MI-HQ in the former EMU College of Business space and the ambitious South State District redevelopment project are poised to further enrich our community’s infrastructure and entrepreneurial landscape.

As we look to the future and SPARK’s third decade, my gratitude extends to the entire network of founders, business leaders, innovators, academic allies, and public sector partners. Your passion, expertise, and commitment have been the bedrock of SPARK’s success and the catalyst for our region’s ongoing transformation. Together, we’ve created an unparalleled legacy of fostering economic growth and innovation. As we embark on the next chapter, we can only anticipate the new heights we will reach, driven by our shared vision and collective efforts.

Regards,

Paul Krutko
PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ANN ARBOR SPARK