As the seasons change, MTEC SmartZone is moving forward with fresh opportunities and exciting achievements. This month, we celebrated Sequestro’s first-place win at TCNewTech, opened applications for the 2026 AAMP Accelerator, highlighted the Going PRO Talent Fund grant window, and much more. Our team announced some new additions as well, including a Marketing Manager and new Board Member. While the weather cools, things at MTEC SmartZone are just heating up. We remain more focused than ever on fostering growth, innovation, and regional impact.
Find your Career at the 9th Annual Return North Career Fair
Reconnect with the Upper Peninsula at the 9th Annual Return North Career Fair on November 13, 2025. Explore career opportunities, meet top employers, and discover how you can return to the place you love; all from the comfort of your own home.
MTEC SmartZone Announces a New Marketing Manager
MTEC SmartZone welcomes Allison Szlachta as its new Marketing Manager. With a strong background in digital marketing and community engagement, Allison brings diverse experience to support local businesses, startups, and innovation in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Small Business Support Hub Success Story: Gabby’s Guppies
What started as one mother’s response to a childcare crisis has grown into Gabby’s Guppies, a thriving center serving families across Houghton and Keweenaw County. With support from the Small Business Support Hub, Gabby’s story shows how small businesses can rise from personal challenges to strengthen an entire community.
Sequestro Wins First Place at September’s TCNewTech Pitch Competition
A Northern Michigan startup just took first place at TCNewTech. Discover how Sequestro’s breakthrough could impact our solution to clean water.
MTEC SmartZone Welcomes Wayne Gersie to Its Board of Directors
MTEC SmartZone welcomes a new board member to the team. Learn how Dr. Wayne Gersie’s unique blend of experience and insight could influence the future of entrepreneurship and innovation in the Upper Peninsula.
Applications Open for 2026 AMMP Cohort
The 2026 AMMP Accelerator submission process has begun! The program is officially accepting applications for its 2026 cohort. This accelerator is designed to help entrepreneurs, innovators, and small start-ups accelerate their ideas with mentorship, resources, and guidance tailored to early-stage companies.
Applications are due by Friday, February 27, 2026. Apply today through the AMMP Application Portal.
Going PRO Talent Fund Grant Opens October 1
The Going PRO Talent Fund Grant application window is almost here! The submission period opens on October 1, 2025, and is set to close October 17. This limited-time opportunity provides funding for Michigan employers to improve their workforce, strengthen retention, and meet critical talent needs.
