The greater Ann Arbor region, known by some as the Silicon Valley of the Midwest, is the home to a growing number of internationally recognized companies. These businesses are choosing the region to develop their world-changing technology because of the large concentration of highly educated employees, low cost of living, and ease of access to a new crop of talent through nationally known universities.
The Ann Arbor-based cybersecurity startup Duo Security was recently recognized as a unicorn due to the company’s total valuation to $1.17 billion just seven years after its inception.
| 600+ |
| Firms in the Region |
| 21,990 |
| Technology Professionals in the Region |
Source: U.S Census Bureau
A key component of the greater Ann Arbor region’s success in the technology sector is the access to several world-class colleges and universities. These schools not only train the next generation of industry leaders and innovators, they also pioneer research in the field. In 2015, The University of Michigan was second in the nation in research spending, coming in at over $1.4 billion.
The region’s secondary education systems foster an interest in STEM education, including Computer Engineering Computer Science and Data Science.
Michigan SmartZones are locations where technology-based firms, entrepreneurs and researchers locate in close proximity. SmartZone technology clusters promote resource collaborations between universities, industry, research organizations, government and other community institutions, growing technology-based businesses and jobs. There are several zones located throughout the region.
There are also grants and funds available for those interested in growing and/or starting a technology business in the greater Ann Arbor region. Contact us to learn more.
“Our assembly lines are highly automated, and having engineers that can program those robots and run those machines is absolutely critical to our future.”
Tom Strickland, President and CEO, Hi-Lex Controls, Inc.
Learn more about Hi-Lex Controls, Inc.
There are many resources available for growing your business in the greater Ann Arbor region. Contact us to learn more about the opportunities that will make your next move successful.
The Greater Ann Arbor Region is a collaborative partnership of six counties working together to serve growing businesses that are seeking a destination for relocation or expansion.
