52 Michigan Communities Honored for Entrepreneurial Growth

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DETROIT — Eight communities across the state of Michigan have been identified for the strategies they employ to foster entrepreneurial growth and economic development, according to the annual eCities study. The study, conducted by iLabs, University of Michigan-Dearborn’s Center for Innovation Research, identified Imlay City, Madison Heights, Meridian Township, Midland, Mount Pleasant, Sterling Heights, Sturgis and Tecumseh for their incentives, innovative programs, and best practices geared toward business development.

“These communities are being recognized for the best practices they utilize, which include the right mix of tools and resources for their business community,” said Tim Davis, director, iLabs. “They listen to companies, help them with governmental processes, connect them with other companies, and listen to what both new and existing businesses are saying. They are the definition of partners in the process and not just a service provider.”

The annual eCities research project, which began in 2007, uses data supplied by the participants, as well as other public records to assemble a six-factor, 32-item index of entrepreneurial activity, looking at such factors as clustering, incentives, growth, policies, community, and education.

This year’s study also recognizes an additional 44 communities as five-and four-star performers. For the full list, visit http://umdilabs.com/ecities/stars.