Ann Arbor SPARK

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.

Ann Arbor SPARK’s recent annual 2024 report shows a concerted effort to direct enhance business development in Ypsilanti. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the details.

Ann Arbor SPARK has published its 2024 annual report, revealing that $9.5 million was spent on start-up investments aimed at boosting the local economy. WEMU’s Ana Longoria has the details.

President Trump’s tariffs are having an impact on businesses in Washtenaw County. WEMU’s Ana Longoria reports.

A report by Ann Arbor SPARK shows Washtenaw and Livingston Counties have a serious shortage of licensed daycare centers. Ann Arbor is looking for ways to make it easier for more to open. WEMU’s Kevin Meerschaert reports.