Ann Arbor SPARK

For more than 15 years, Ann Arbor SPARK has served the greater Ann Arbor region as a catalyst for economic development. We accomplish this by building awareness of the region as a community that advocates for business and manufacturing development and growth. Our team of experts attracts, develops, strengthens, and invests in driving industries to help our communities prosper. SPARK partners with and represents local municipalities in order to support and enhance their economic development efforts, which allows them access to national site selectors and international exposure, the benefit of regional marketing efforts, and superior project management support. SPARK reports on its successes and challenges to local economic development staff and to city councils. While Ann Arbor SPARK’s core programs are designed for companies and individuals primarily located in Washtenaw County, the organization’s support extends to the six-county Greater Ann Arbor Region (GAAR), which includes Jackson, Lenawee, Monroe, Livingston, and Hillsdale counties. Economic development requires collaboration, and SPARK is committed to bringing together partners — like the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Michigan Works! Southeast, city and municipal partners, academic institutions, and others — to support the growth of companies and the creation of jobs.