Between the long, sunny days, colorful sunsets, and occasional haze from Canadian wildfires, this summer in the Upper Peninsula has been anything but boring. This month, we’re highlighting the revival project of a community staple in Greenland, the conclusion of our 2026 AMMP Accelerator Program, a look inside our AI Training Series, and much more. Keep reading to see what MTEC has been up to this summer!
A New Chapter On Plank Street
What was once a beloved gathering place is being brought back to life. Discover how one entrepreneur is giving a second chance to a historic building while investing in the future of the Western Upper Peninsula.
AMMP 2026: The Journey to Detroit and Beyond
The 2026 AMMP Accelerator has come to a close, but the journey is just beginning. Discover how six founders turned 12 weeks of hard work into business growth opportunities.
MTEC SmartZone Announces New Business Development Intern
This summer, MTEC welcomed Austin Salani to the team as our Business Development Intern. Learn how he’s supporting entrepreneurs while gaining valuable experience in economic development.
1885 Capital Launches
1885 Capital, an early-stage venture capital firm based in Houghton, Michigan, was launched earlier this month. This is the first rural-based venture fund based in the Upper Peninsula to ever exist. It was created to support entrepreneurs and innovators developing technologies in the software, advanced materials, sustainability, and natural resource sectors. While it operates as an independent organization, the firm works closely with Michigan Tech, utilizing the university’s world-class R1 research and engineering talent.
Inside Our AI Training Series
AI is changing the way we do business. Discover why MTEC launched its first AI Training Series, what attendees learned, and how businesses across the Western Upper Peninsula are beginning to put AI into practice.
GLSV’s First Congressional Delegation Breakfast
Last month, Great Lakes Sound & Vibration (GLSV) held its first ever Congressional Delegation Breakfast (CODEL). The event brought together government leaders, industry experts, university employees, and economic development drivers from across the Western Upper Peninsula. Congressmen Jack Bergman shared a legislative update, while speakers from GLSV, Michigan Tech, and the Keweenaw Defense Industry Coalition shared their insights on defense innovation. MTEC is proud to support organizations like GLSV that are actively creating a collaborative network for defense innovation in the Keweenaw.
