Ann Arbor SPARK helps companies looking to grow, expand, or relocate 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.
The advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is a key component of the fourth industrial revolution. The greater Ann Arbor region is home to a significant number of companies dedicated to this venture.
Through the power of machine learning, AI optimizes how everyday human interaction is translated to data that machines can process and execute. In the Ann Arbor region, AI startups and companies are using artificial intelligence to power sophisticated business solutions that span driving industries.
- In the mobility sector, AI companies like Quantum Signal AI and Refraction AI are using machine learning to optimize transportation and mobile robotics.
- Innsightful is an AI-powered health monitoring device to manage and eventually overcome mental health challenges.
- Helping provide safer, more productive manufacturing operations, Invisible AI uses computer vision to track body posture and movement.
The Ann Arbor region has fostered a strong community of AI researchers and organizations. The University of Michigan Artificial Intelligence (AI) Partners Program provides a formal venue for a community of AI leaders to convene and collaborate. The annual Michigan AI Symposium and the A2.AI Conference also serve as pivotal spaces for thought leaders and researchers to discuss the foundations and applications of machine learning. Public events like Friday Night AI and A2Mobility Tech Meetup also offer tech education and networking among the local community.
Ann Arbor 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 works closely with early-stage startups to expedite their success. A reliable advocate to help founders navigate the entrepreneurial ecosystem, 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 leaders. We’ve also teamed up with the Michigan Small Business Development Center to help our qualified clients apply for the Michigan Emerging Technologies Fund.
In addition to avenues for funding, SPARK initiatives promote collaborative programs in the region. For example, a2Tech360 is an annual weeklong series of events, featuring the region’s companies and leaders. Included in the lineup is the opportunity for angel investors and venture capitalists to hear pitches from early-stage startups during Invest360: Investor Showcase.
Recent Industry Projects in Southeast Michigan
- ‘A2GO’ autonomous shuttle service coming to Ann Arbor
- MEDC spearheads North America’s First Industry 4.0 Accelerator
- $7.5M Multidisciplinary University Research Initiative to make Dynamic AI smarter and Safer
- a2Tech360 event A2.AI Machine Learning Conference Available Online
Industry Employers
| Company Name | Employees | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Groundspeed Analytics, Inc. | 90+ | Software-insurance |
| Clinc Inc. | 75+ | Artificial intelligence, financial technology |
| Quantum Signal AI | 40+ | AI sensing and data analysis |
| Innsightful | 4+ | Artificial intelligence, healthcare |
| INTVO | 3+ | Artificial intelligence, mobility |
| May Mobility | 115+ | Autonomous shuttle design and assembly |
| Refraction AI | 10+ | Delivery robots |
| Saganworks Inc. | 10+ | Software-database management |
| RXA | 31 | Artificial intelligence, data analysis |
| Invisible AI | 9 | Artificial intelligence, manufacturing |
| Elroi | 6 | Artificial intelligence, data management |
| AngioInsight | 4 | Artificial intelligence, healthcare diagnosis |
Build and Grow in Ann Arbor
Become a SPARK Client
A member of the Ann Arbor SPARK entrepreneurial services team will be in touch to discuss how we can help bring your idea to life. This is the first step in participating in our Entrepreneur Boot Camp, becoming a member of our coworking space, and getting introduced to our growing network of mentors and consultants. We can’t wait to connect with you!