Ann Arbor SPARK

A food organization in Ypsilanti is fostering future food entrepreneurs by expanding its kitchen operations. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the story.

Ann Arbor SPARK’s annual report shows that Ann Arbor’s future could be driven by businesses utilizing artificial intelligence technologies. WEMU’s Ana Longoria reports.

Washtenaw County needs to ensure it has the workforce that keeps up with the ongoing changes to the economy. That was one of the messages brought forth this week at a panel discussion sponsored by the Washtenaw Economic Club. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

Ann Arbor SPARK’s newest annual report for the past fiscal year shows continued investment and growth in its business incubation efforts in Ypsilanti. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the details.

Starting a new business—even a small business—takes a lot of work and resources. Fortunately, Ann Arbor SPARK East in Ypsilanti is there to provide such resources with its Small Business Support Hub. Lee Van Roth talked all about what the program does for budding entrepreneurs with Ann Arbor SPARK's director of entrepreneurial services, Kristine Nash-Wong.

Environmental concerns continue to surround data centers, and there are a number either approved or planned in Washtenaw County. Supporters of these centers contend there are ways to ensure environmental health while improving the local economy. We’ve explored environmental concerns on WEMU’s "Issues of the Environment." This time around, we’ll get a business perspective on it. Phil Santer is Chief Operating Officer for Ann Arbor SPARK, and he joined WEMU's David Fair to discuss the economics of these data centers.

Startup businesses fostered by Ann Arbor SPARK saw financial growth this year amid a turbulent economy. WEMU’s Ana Longoria reports.

A petition drive is underway in Augusta Township to have voters decide the fate of the proposed $1 billion data center. They want to overturn the Board of Trustees’ decision to approve its rezoning. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.

The City of Ypsilanti is working with several community stakeholders to install fiber optic cables throughout the city. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the details.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) has named Ann Arbor SPARK as one of the first-ever recipients of the Michigan Innovation Fund. WEMU’s Ana Longoria reports.