Ann Arbor SPARK Guiding Principles

Long Range Goals

The Ann Arbor region will:

• Be known as a "hot spot" for high-value, knowledge-intensive and diverse talent
• Build a unified region working together to achieve common economic objectives, without duplication of effort utilizing the Open Source Economic Development ® concept
• Be on a "short list" for site selectors and other influencers as a sought after location
• Be known as an innovation hub with access to funding and business creation/development support under the @nnarborusa brand
• Have national and international brand recognition
• Be recognized as one of the nation's best regions for innovation-based business retention and growth through a proactive business development effort

Strategy

• Engage area partners in regional economic development
  • Economic development organizations
  • Universities and colleges
  • Foundations
  • Business influencers and networks
• Provide comprehensive economic development services for all of Washtenaw County
• Focus on entrepreneurial assets and resources
  • Region is viewed as an entrepreneurial hub
  • Region is viewed as a talent hub for biosciences, alternative energy, etc.
  • Continue building out entrepreneurial ecosystem
• Benchmark within and outside of the industry
• Demonstrate sustainability through programs
• Launch L3C subsidiaries where appropriate