Second Semester Update!

Professor Ballard

We hope you had a great and well-deserved break over the holiday. Since coming back from our winter break the Spotlight team has been hard at work.

We met with Professor Charles Ballard to go over our survey and we learned a lot about the Michigan economic environment.  This has proven to be very helpful as we are putting the finishing touches on our survey.

On January 20th a few of us made the trek down to Cassopolis, Michigan to visit the Edward Lowe Foundation. They are doing amazing things with second stage, high growth businesses. Going on this trip helped us see that these second-stage companies, while only accounting for just over 10% of the economy, employs over 35% of the population.

Ed Lowe Foundation

Ensuring the success of these business’ promises Michigan to have strong future. Every year they honor the top 50 companies to watch in Michigan for the next year. Check them out at www.edwardlowe.org and see all the great companies that are working in Michigan.

Spotlight Michigan ventured to Grand Rapids on  Friday, January 21^st. We toured the city and spoke with the Chamber of Commerce, the Wright Place,  Axios Incorporated, and the DECC company.  From the trek to Grand Rapids, we were able to witness the innovation and  economic growth  in Western Michigan.  Through our discussions, with local entrepreneurs and economic development agencies,  we learned  how the area is recruiting , expanding, and supporting business’ in the Western Michigan.

The Right Place

A lot of things are in the woodwork for us. Our spring break research trip is right around the corner and our survey is looking better then ever!  Follow us on our facebook and twitter page for updated info.