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Ann Arbor SPARK's mission is to advance the economic development of innovation-based businesses in the Ann Arbor region by offering programs, resources, and proactive support to business at every stage, from start-ups to large organizations looking for expansion opportunities. The group is the administrator for the Michigan Pre-Seed Capital Fund, which supports high-tech start-up companies as they near commercial viability. Supported by a consortium of Michigan SmartZones, the fund targets companies throughout the state that are creating the newest technologies in the following competitive areas: Advanced automotive, manufacturing, and materials; Alternative energy; Homeland security and defense; and Life sciences. The group also offers access to three different incubators providing physical space, essential business services and business development guidance at lease rates that are affordable for start-up companies. Clients of the SPARK Regional Incubator Network receive: Very flexible, short- to long-term leases; Start-up friendly lease rates; Facilities with access to copiers, fax machines, conference rooms, cleaning services, shipping and receiving areas, a VOIP telephone system and T-1 internet connection; and Administrative services. Another initiative, the Michigan Life Science and Innovation Center, Life Science Incubator, is a 57,000+ square foot life science incubator complete with state-of-the-art labs, well-appointed offices and conference rooms, a loading dock, ample parking, and every possible business amenity.
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