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Michigan Innovation Headquarters Expands in Detroit

The construction site of the new Michigan Innovation Headquarters in Detroit, designed to support startups and innovation.

News Summary

The Michigan Innovation Headquarters (MI-HQ) is embarking on a substantial expansion to Gratiot Avenue in Detroit, creating nearly 150,000 square feet of dedicated space for startups. This new location will support wet labs, manufacturing, and collaborative work environments. With a vision to cultivate innovation and strengthen the local startup ecosystem, MI-HQ aims to establish a Life Sciences District in Detroit while continuing to facilitate collaboration among diverse industries. This exciting development marks a significant step in enhancing Michigan’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Exciting Expansion: Michigan Innovation Headquarters Takes a Big Step in Detroit!

In a move that’s sure to spark excitement among entrepreneurs and startup enthusiasts, the Michigan Innovation Headquarters (MI-HQ) is expanding to Detroit’s Gratiot Avenue! This isn’t just any expansion; it’s a huge development that promises to foster innovation and support the bustling startup scene. Imagine nearly 150,000 square feet dedicated to wet lab space, manufacturing facilities, offices, and coworking areas—all aimed at nurturing the growth of new businesses.

A Hub for Startups

MI-HQ has been rocking the shared workspace model for over 20 years in Washtenaw County, where a thriving network of about 100 startups currently operates. These startups primarily focus on hardware development and are part of a massive 108-acre network of coworking spaces. With the new Gratiot Avenue location, MI-HQ is set to anchor Dan Gilbert’s Bedrock development at the former “fail jail” site, giving the area a fresh and innovative vibe!

But that’s not all! This new site is part of an exciting plan to create a three-mile Life Sciences District right in Detroit’s innovation corridor. It seems clear that the future is bright for the local startup ecosystem, and it’s time to get excited!

Collaboration: The Key to Success

The vision behind MI-HQ is that *collaboration* among startups is essential for growth. With new spaces and resources available, startups will have more opportunities to connect with each other, share ideas, and inspire innovation. MI-HQ has been eyeing this expansion into Detroit for five years—talk about determination and vision!

The CEO of MI-HQ comes from a background of shifting gears from a potential career in medicine to agribusiness management. This person understands the importance of creating a supportive environment for startups to thrive. Currently managing over 612,000 square feet of space across three campuses in Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, the aspirations for Detroit represent only the tip of the iceberg in this ambitious journey.

Diverse Industries Supported

What makes MI-HQ special is its versatility in nurturing businesses across various fields. They work with companies involved in life sciences, material sciences, battery research and development, manufacturing, quantum computing, and so much more. With *unique equipment and resources* at their disposal, startups have the opportunity to lower their operational costs and concentrate on what truly matters: innovation!

Additionally, MI-HQ places a strong emphasis on encouraging local university spinouts from top institutions such as the University of Michigan and Michigan State University to plant roots in the state. The track record speaks for itself, with notable successes like May Mobility and AlphaCore Pharma, which was later acquired by AstraZeneca. It’s clear that MI-HQ is a powerhouse for nurturing talent and fostering *groundbreaking ideas*.

Big Plans Ahead

The future looks even more promising for MI-HQ, as they aim for a jaw-dropping goal to exceed 1 million square feet of incubator space by 2027! Plans are already in the works for a 65,000-square-foot facility in Ann Arbor and a 40,000-square-foot facility in Ypsilanti, which will also include a restaurant and pharmacy. *Talk about enhancing the community!*

On top of that, MI-HQ has been awarded a $1 million Brownfield Redevelopment grant for one of its renovation projects, which will help to clean up contaminated soil and streamline facility improvements. This renovation is projected to create around 300 new jobs within the state, contributing to Michigan’s growing workforce and economy.

Optimism in the Air

With all these thrilling developments taking shape, it’s clear that Michigan’s startup ecosystem is truly on the rise! MI-HQ is dedicated to connecting resources effectively to foster innovation and retain talent within the state. It’s an exhilarating time for startups in Michigan, and who knows what incredible ideas will emerge from this collaboration? The future certainly looks bright on Gratiot Avenue!