MIDLAND ? The MidMichigan Innovation Center is working with businesses in Cadillac in a virtual way through the new Regional Business Incubation Network.
The program, designed to provide education and support for business and innovation in Michigan, offers customized business incubation support. Key community leaders from the Cadillac area, in conjunction with the Cadillac Area Jobs Creation Plan and the Cadillac Area Manufacturers Association, have signed on as the first client community.
“The City, County and Ferris State University want to partner with MidMichigan Innovation Center, as they support existing businesses through professional services, collaborative connections, funding resources and access to 14 statewide universities for technical assistance ? all of which we can leverage,” said Doug Mellema, President of the Cadillac Area Manufacturers Association.
“Several of us have already partnered with MidMichigan Innovation Center for support in research and development, assistance from Dow and Dow Corning mentors, and others within the MidMichigan Innovation Center network.”
MidMichigan Innovation Center CEO Bill Moneypenny said he sees and meets leaders from communities around Michigan that are rich with ideas and entrepreneurs and just need a little help to organize and support entrepreneurship.
“There is a huge potential in Michigan to identify, support and grow our own businesses and this Regional Business Incubation Network is designed to make that happen. We are excited to partner with these Cadillac/Wexford County groups and to make a real difference there.”
Communities can join the Regional Business Incubation Network and get everything form strategic direction and support to evaluation potential, entrepreneurial training, connections with global experts and seasoned mentors, and insights on grants and funding resources. The program is supported by Saginaw Valley State University and an Economic Development Administration grant, designed to support growth in remote communities across Michigan. Community leaders in Alpena, the Thumb Area, Clare and Gladwin are also in talks discussing partnerships through the Regional Business Incubation Network.
MidMichigan Innovation Center Business Development Leader Deb Zellner sees added benefits for all.
“The broader our networking and support of businesses and jobs, the stronger we all become in Michigan. And the ability of other regions to leverage the MidMichigan Innovation Center resources and experts through this Regional Business Incubation Network will help grow diversity, and create new jobs through home-grown innovation.”
Those interested in learning about the Regional Business Incubation Network can contact Zellner at (989) 839-2337.
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