What is a SmartZone?

Smartzones are Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) programs across the state of Michigan. They provide distinct geographical locations where technology-based firms, entrepreneurs, and researchers locate in close proximity to all of the community assets that assist in their endeavors. SmartZone technology clusters promote resource collaborations between universities, industry, research organizations, government, and other community institutions, growing technology-based businesses and jobs. New and emerging companies in SmartZone technology clusters are primarily focused on commercializing ideas, patents, and other opportunities surrounding the corporate, university, or private research institute R&D efforts.

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Our History

The Sault Ste Marie SmartZone was established in 2008. An application for a SmartZone status and operation began in December 2008. The SSMart SmartZone was initially managed by Lake Superior State University (LSSU). Because of financial and metrics performance, the City took over the operation and delegated the daily management to the EDC. The Sault Ste Marie brand was discontinued in 2018 with all requests going to the EDC. 

In the fall of 2022, in partnership with the MEDC, a local group in Sault Ste Marie began working to revitalize the SmartZone. Seeing the value in the services, funding support and community support it provides, the group started working on rebranding and reviving the Sault Ste Marie SmartZone. There began Headwaters North SmartZone.

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Why We're Here

create
Create

We are here to support the creation of an entrepreneurial pipeline in the Eastern Upper Peninsula.

inspire and collaborate
Inspire

The work we do will work to inspire an entrepreneurial culture in Sault Ste. Marie and surrounding areas.

educate with microscopes
Educate & Support

Between mentorship and collaborative efforts throughout the area, entrepreneurs and early-stage startups will be given the resources needed to grow and develop their ideas.

inspiring the future with headwaters north
Develop

Our intent is to develop talent throughout the community and enhance the quality of living to allow business to live and work in the Eastern Upper Peninsula.

sault ste marie
Collaborate & Leverage 

As we grow and gain traction locally and across the state, we will work to collaborate and leverage the talent and assets so companies can continue to thrive. 

attract
Attract 

Attracting capital to the region through investing, grants and other forms of funding will provide the necessary seed money to help entrepreneurs scale.