October 18, 2001

Today marked the opening of the latest installment in Muskegon's technology initiative that has commonly been referred to as the Lakeshore SmartZone. The Lakeshore Launch Pad, an accelerator for technology-based businesses, was officially announced. The Launch Pad is an initial critical element in the development of the Muskegon Lakeshore SmartZone.

The guiding principles behind this business acceleration center (incubator) are quite simple. Provide early-stage technology-based firms with space, easy access to resources including management, financial advice, and counseling, and create a technology friendly business climate in order to support and encourage the development of these entrepreneurs and their companies.

The Lakeshore Launch Pad, a not-for-profit corporation, is co-located in the Hume Office Building, along with Muskegon Area First, the Muskegon Area Chamber of Commerce, and the Michigan Small Business Development Center. This arrangement allows for high visibility, easy access to support and resources, and a great location for tech-based firms. Founding partners of this initiative include the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, the Muskegon Area Chamber of Commerce, Muskegon Area First, Muskegon Community College, the Michigan State Housing Development Authority, Baker College, Grand Valley State University through the Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) through the Muskegon Lakeshore SmartZone.

To date, two technology firms have located in the Launch Pad to take advantage of the incubator services. Currently the Pad provides office space, client meeting rooms, a technology training room, DSL Internet connections, low-cost phone systems, access to office equipment and regular counseling support from Grand Valley State University's SBDC Technology Business Counselor. Launch Pad clients have also gained access to legal and financial advice from supporters of the Launch Pad.

Additional value-added resources are also being sought to support the development of these firms. Access to management talent and business advisors or directors is being developed, as are partnerships with area educational institutions to provide internships and other higher-education talent.

A board of directors has been assembled to lead this initiative and they are currently searching for an on-site director. Entrepreneurs interested in learning more about the services offered by the Lakeshore Launch Pad should call 231-722-3751 or send e-mail to info@muskegonareafirst.org.