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Group Pushes to Hike Local High-Tech Presence

ANN ARBOR, MI-The new agency seeks to expand technology businesses in the metro area, which is moving toward a knowledge-based economy. University of Michigan already is one of the biggest donors toward a $3-million operating goal.

By Dan Heaton | Updated on May 25, 2005

ANN ARBOR, MI-A new organization aimed at increasing the number of high-technology businesses in and around the metro area says it has more than $2 million in commitments toward a $3 million, three-year operating goal. Organizers of Spark say they also have additional informal pledges exceeding this funding target.

University of Michigan president Mary Sue Coleman has said the University will pledge up to $1 million over five years, beginning with a three-year pledge of $600,000. If the effort shows progress, the university would continue funding at the same rate for at least two years after that.

Spark’s goal is to double the number of technology companies and triple the number of technology jobs in the region by 2010. “We decided to establish this region’s national identity as a hot spot for innovation and entrepreneurial energy and the development of technology talent,” Coleman says. “I’m delighted at the progress we have made since we launched this project in November, originally as ‘Ann Arbor TechCentral.’ Now, with our new name, Ann Arbor Spark, an impressive set of collaborative partners and an exciting mission, we have accelerated our path to innovation and success.”

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