March 17, 2023 – The local Sault Ste Marie SmartZone recently rebranded resulting in the new name of Headwaters North. The rebrand includes the connection to the community, the local natural resources, and the focus of Smartzones - technology and innovation. Headwaters North exists to develop local talent, leverage and attract capital to the local business community, and support startup and early-stage companies through programs, funding resources, and networking.
Additionally, Headwaters will collaborate with Lake Superior State University, the City of Sault Ste Marie, and other community partners to create an ecosystem that supports business growth and entrepreneurial support in Sault Ste Marie. The next phase of the rebranding process includes creating a new website, SmartStart classes for entrepreneurs to develop their ideas, and local events to connect and learn more about Headwaters.
"Community engagement and partnerships are an important part of LSSU's strategic plan," said Lake State President Dr. Rodney S. Hanley. "LSSU looks forward to continuing its longstanding relationship with the rebranded Headwaters North in efforts to support entrepreneurial innovation and to enhance the quality of life of the Great Lakes region and beyond."
The rebranding of the SmartZone kickstarts and revitalizes the work and resources it provides to the community and its members. Headwaters will focus on developing talent throughout the area with programs like SmartStart, creating a pipeline of entrepreneurs through networking and collaboration, and attracting and leveraging capital to help start, develop, and expand new and early-stage companies. Headwaters North is a program that supports economic development in the Sault Ste Marie community along with providing additional business resources to the community.
Headwaters North is one of twenty SmartZone across the State of Michigan located in Sault Ste Marie that serves the Eastern Upper Peninsula. Headwaters exist to grow the entrepreneurial community, leverage resources and support economic development by creating and growing new and existing companies.