Open Source Economic Development and Statewide Cooperation

At Ann Arbor SPARK, our immediate goal is to promote economic development in the Ann Arbor region. But our larger focus is ensuring long-term growth and viability for the entire state of Michigan — something that can best be achieved through a process we call Open Source Economic Development. We don’t view any place in the state of Michigan as competition to us. We view the rest of the state as partners. If there are things that we can do... [Read More...]

SPARK Annual Meeting

Ann Arbor SPARK is driving the region forward and helping to create viable economic opportunities for businesses, job seekers and employers. Our work has led to creation and retention of thousands of jobs in the region, new business location and business expansion as well as millions in new investment.  In a time when communities are struggling, SPARK is working hard to diversify our local economy and generate meaningful collaborations that result... [Read More...]

“Open Source” Economic Development

Economic development in Michigan should take a page from the playbook of the ever-evolving software industry. Its “open source” philosophy – the source code that drives development should be open and available to all – is a model that can propel Michigan’s success in growing, retaining, and attracting business. Michael Finney, SPARK President & CEO Ann Arbor SPARK has taken steps to pilot this approach to economic development by designing... [Read More...]