Ann Arbor stands as a beacon, attracting trailblazing OEM development, pioneering researchers, and ambitious entrepreneurs.
Our dynamic ecosystem thrives on the collaborative efforts of industry, academia, government, and entrepreneurs, driving advanced automotive and mobility innovation for the region.
At the heart of it all is Ann Arbor, where business intersects with advanced research, out-of-the-box thinkers, abundant economic resources, and an immense talent pool.
$14 B
Business-funded automotive research development occurs in Michigan annually
$1.77 B
University of Michigan annual research spending #4 in the U.S.
#1
Most educated city in America
200+
Mobility companies in Washtenaw County employing over 20,000 people
Build and Grow in Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor SPARK helps companies looking to grow, expand, or relocate to find a space that suits their needs. From work environments at the SPARK Central Innovation Center in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor to commercial real estate options throughout the region, Ann Arbor SPARK has the resources and connections to facilitate your site selection.
Launch Your Idea
Our entrepreneurial services team is ready to help kickstart your idea into action. We provide a suite of resources to turn your concept into reality, fueling the innovation that defines our ecosystem. From our comprehensive Entrepreneur Boot Camp to access to coworking spaces and connections with our extensive network of mentors and consultants, we’ve got you covered.
Regional Mobility Subsectors & Resources
The Ann Arbor region hosts a dynamic and collaborative array of mobility technology companies and resources, driving innovation and growth.
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Automotive R&DCompanies:
- Stellantis
- Toyota North America R&D
- Hyundai American Technical Center
- Honda Research Institute
- KLA
- EAVX
- AVL engineering
- Mercedes-Benz Emissions Test Lab
- SBD Automotive
Applicable Resources:
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Connected & Automated Vehicles -
Advanced Air -
Electrification -
Robotics
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Cybersecurity -
Sustainability -
Micromobility -
Manufacturing -
Software/AI
Spark Services and Resources
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT AND SITE SELECTOR SERVICES
Ann Arbor SPARK works closely with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Michigan Works! Southeast, local municipalities, and other partners to facilitate business location and growth within the region.
Our team can help make meaningful connections as well as identify office space and the skilled talent you need to achieve your goals.
STARTUP AND BUSINESS ACCELERATION RESOURCES
The SPARK entrepreneurial services team accelerates early-stage startup success by providing essential resources and guidance.
SPARK offers desk space at our Coworking Programs in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, business accelerator grants to help achieve significant product development milestones, and mentoring opportunities with the area’s experienced business and tech leaders. Teaming up with the SBDC, GEM, and others, we help clients find funding opportunities.
Other SPARK initiatives promote mobility and advanced automotive programs in the region, including networking events, educational opportunities, and more.
Education & Talent
Ann Arbor’s mobility tech ecosystem thrives due to its proximity to the University of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University and Washtenaw Community College.
The University of Michigan is among the world’s top universities. Its graduate and professional programs are consistently listed among the nation’s top ten. University of Michigan’s College Engineering offers 18 undergraduate degree and 57 graduate and professional programs.
The GameAbove College of Engineering and Technology at Eastern Michigan University, located in downtown Ypsilanti, offers four-year degrees in computer engineering technology and information security.
Washtenaw Community College’s Advanced Transportation Center offers more than 60 automotive and cybersecurity technologies courses and training programs to fill emerging technician jobs in the EV industry, including charging station installation, maintenance, battery and semiconductor technology.
6 Universities
within an hour of Ann Arbor:
- University of Michigan
- Eastern Michigan University
- Michigan State University
- Wayne State University
- Lawrence Technological University
- Kettering University
#5 in Nation
University of Michigan ranking in undergraduate engineering programs. Source: US News and World Report
40%
of U-M alumni live in Michigan representing over 200K graduates
Over 38,000
views in the SPARK job portal in 2023
Find Your Talent Here
No matter what your talent needs are, Ann Arbor SPARK has the programs and connections to help.
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Internship ProgramsThe SPARK Internship resume database connects talented college and university students to opportunities with the area’s leading innovative companies.
Michigan STEAM Ahead fosters hands-on career experiences for students interested in STEAM-related positions and to support companies of all sizes with building a strong tech talent pipeline in emerging technologies.
SPARK Entrepreneurial Services Internship Program provides funding for SPARK clients located in the City of Ann Arbor or the City of Ypsilanti. Support for this program is provided by the Ann Arbor / Ypsilanti SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority.
Digital Summer Clinic provides no cost, paid internships in digital fields for companies in SPARK’s high-tech incubator.
Michigan Founders Fund Internship program provides an opportunity for underrepresented students in Michigan to gain exposure to high-growth entrepreneurship and professional experiences.
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General Talent -
Entrepreneur-In-Residence
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Events -
Pricing -
Mobility Pilots