Grand Rapids is home to one of eleven SmartZones throughout Michigan. SmartZones are specially created "technology parks" designed to spur the growth of technology-related or research-oriented businesses and employment opportunities. Technology firms, biomedical businesses, universities or private research institutes form efficient, organized and easily-identified "smart clusters," which in turn attract other businesses and highly-skilled professionals to the SmartZone.

The Grand Rapids SmartZone is anchored by the Van Andel Research Institute, an independent research organization focused on molecular cancer investigation; and by wet lab incubator space at Grand Valley State University's new Health Professions Building.

The SmartZone is a place where new high tech ventures, including biotech, information technology and advanced manufacturing can access a host of services to grow a business. A Business Accelerator Center serves as a one stop shop to help transfer technology to product development. It offers:

• Incubation Space
• Business Plan Development
• Access to Venture Capital
• Market Research
• Management Recruitment
• Professional Legal Services
• National Technology Review
• Student Interns

The SmartZone district can offer site development assistance with land acquisition and infrastructure improvements for qualifying businesses. Additionally, other tax incentives may be available to high tech companies that locate in the zone.

Contact: Susan Shannon, City Business Advocate @ (616) 456-3431.
E-mail: sshannon@ci.grand-rapids.mi.us