About MTEC SmartZone
What is a SmartZone?
A SmartZone is a designated area in Michigan focused on supporting technology-driven businesses and innovation. The MTEC SmartZone is part of the Michigan SmartZones program and includes a Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA), which allows for the use of state incentives to encourage economic growth. These areas are designed to foster collaboration between startups, research institutions, and the community to drive innovation and create high-tech, innovative jobs.
What does MTEC SmartZone do?
MTEC SmartZone supports entrepreneurs, startups, and growing businesses across Michigan’s Western Upper Peninsula by providing business development resources, programming, mentorship, funding connections, and access to a strong network of regional partners. Serving Houghton, Keweenaw, Ontonagon, Iron, and Gogebic counties, MTEC helps businesses turn ideas into opportunities, overcome barriers to growth, and build sustainable companies that contribute to economic growth and innovation of the Western U.P.
What types of businesses does MTEC SmartZone support?
We support technology-based startups and growing companies in various industries, including software development, engineering, advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and more. If you have a business idea outside of our expertise, we are happy to direct you to the Small Buisness Developement Council (SBDC) or other SmartZones that can better serve your idea.
What resources does MTEC SmartZone offer to startups?
MTEC SmartZone provides access to mentorship, funding opportunities, office space, networking events, and strategic partnerships to help businesses scale and succeed. These resources are designed to support startups through every stage of growth, from the idea phase to market success.
Are you a part of Michigan Technological University (MTU)?
While MTEC SmartZone is a separate entity from Michigan Technological University (MTU), we closely collaborate with the university. Our proximity to MTU and its research programs enhances our ability to support technology-driven startups and businesses, creating partnerships between academia, industry, and entrepreneurship. One of the spaces we operate out of is the Michigan Tech Lakeshore Center, so we are essentially “roommates” with MTU.
How does MTEC support local community?
We collaborate with local businesses, educational institutions, and government organizations to drive regional economic growth, create jobs, and foster a culture of innovation in the Keweenaw and Upper Peninsula of Michigan.
What does the term “business incubator” mean?
A business incubator is a program or facility that supports the early stages of business development. It offers resources such as office space, mentoring, networking opportunities, and access to funding to help startups and small businesses grow. MTEC SmartZone operates as a business incubator, providing the support entrepreneurs need to transform ideas into viable, successful businesses.
What is an Innovation Hub?
An Innovation Hub is a physical or virtual space designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and the development of new technologies and business ideas. It provides resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities to entrepreneurs, startups, and innovators. MTEC SmartZone serves as an Innovation Hub for Houghton, Hancock and the Keweenaw region, offering office space, support services, and connections to a network of resources that help businesses grow and succeed.
Eligibility Questions
Does it cost anything to work with MTEC?
Many of MTEC’s services are provided at no cost, thanks to state and federal support. Some specialized programs may have separate eligibility requirements and participation fees, which are clearly outlined during the application process.
Do I need to have a business already?
No. One of ours strengths is helping people before they’ve launched their business.
Does MTEC serve all of Michigan's Upper Peninsula?
No, MTEC SmartZone serves as an Innovation Hub for Michigan’s Western Upper Peninsula. We support entrepreneurs, startups, and technology-based businesses in the follwing counties:
- Houghton
- Keweenaw
- Ontonagon
- Iron
- Gogebic
If you’re located outside of our service area, visit our About Us page to find the Michigan SmartZone that serves your region. We’d be happy to connect you with the organization and resources best suited to support your business needs.
Can MTEC help existing businesses?
Yes. MTEC SmartZone supports both startups and existing businesses throughout Michigan’s Western Upper Peninsula. Whether your business is looking to grow, launch a new product, adopt innovative technologies, or access expert business guidance, our team is here to help. We’ll work with you to understand your goals and connect you with programs, services, educational opportunities, and regional partners to best fit your needs.
Getting Started
How do I get started with MTEC?
Fill out our Wild Ideas Form (https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/X9bx05VGmk) and tell us a little about yourself, your business or idea. Once we receive your submission, a member of our team will reach out to schedule an initial conversation.
We evaluate each applicant to ensure alignment with our mission and available resources or programs to support their growth. Ee’ll learn about your goals, answer your questions, and connect you with the programs, services, and regional partners that best fit your needs.
What happens after I contact MTEC?
After you contact MTEC, a member of our team will reach out to schedule an introductory conversation to learn more about your business or idea. We’ll discuss your goals, answer any questions, and recommend the programs, services, and resources that best fit your needs. If another organization or partner is better equipped to assist you, we’ll gladly connect you with the appropriate resource. Our goal is to make sure entrepreneurs and businesses throughout the Western UP receive support.