Displaying items tagged: Ann Arbor SPARK

Angel investing in Michigan rebounded well in 2021 as the amount invested neared — and deal flow exceeded — pre-pandemic levels.

After taking a step back in the early months of the COVID-19 pandemic, angel investors say they are actively seeking deals, particularly in startups that are able to take advantage of the resulting economic disruptions.

GRAND RAPIDS — Tetra Therapeutics Inc.’s sale to a Japanese pharmaceutical company provides a final pathway toward bringing to market potential new drugs to treat Alzheimer’s disease and a form of autism, as well as generates a handsome return for financial backers.

The Michigan Economic Development Corp. plans to put $3 million into a capital fund that will invest in early-stage technology companies.

An assortment of state-backed capital funds and initiatives to support business startups, innovation and entrepreneurs recently earned renewal in Lansing.

Michigan has more angel investors than ever who invest in startup companies, but Skip Simms believes that’s still not nearly enough.

The philanthropic efforts of nonprofits and foundations throughout Michigan are increasingly addressing bigger issues such as affordable housing, community revitalization and employment.

Disher Design & Development plans to increase its workforce by approximately 30 percent with the help of a $200,000 performance-based grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corp.