Technology and Innovation

The Veridian at County Farm Park housing development in Ann Arbor.

Ann Arbor foundation seeks to expand community-owned broadband networks

CommunityInternet, an initiative of the Ann Arbor-based Broadband Institute Foundation, is expanding community-owned broadband in Ann Arbor through a partnership with fiber internet provider 123Net and the Veridian at County Farm development.

Latest in Technology and Innovation
Entrepreneur creates waterproof gear for outdoor enthusiasts with help from EDA

Aaron Hulett found the resources he needed to release his new company, P39 Adventure Gear, by working with the EDA of St. Clair County.

OPINION: Here is one solution for the problem of social media and political violence

The intensity of America’s political culture that factored into the assassination of conservative influencer Charlie Kirk has intensified the scrutiny of the role of social media.

Sanilac County CMH CEO Wilbert Morris presents iPad to Sanilac County Sheriff Paul Rich
Meeting rural Michiganders’ mental health care needs

Michigan’s rural residents face different challenges when accessing mental health care than residents of urban areas. Transportation issues, loneliness, and limited group therapy options can compound their mental health needs. To address these challenges, community mental health (CMH) agencies like Sanilac County Community Mental Health innovate community-based solutions that meet their populations where they are at.   

From Hamburg to Michigan: How Global Detroit helped a biotech founder stay, work, and build

After immigrating from Germany, Max von Wels co-founded a biotech startup in Michigan. With Global Detroit’s help, he secured a visa and a future in tech.

Community collaborations help coordinate shelter, food, clothing, and other basic needs alongside behavioral health services. Community Action of Allegan County home-delivered meals drivers.
Mental health agencies strengthen services through community collaborations

Across Michigan, community mental health (CMH) agencies are expanding their reach through partnerships with local organizations that address housing, transportation, and other barriers to care. These collaborations aim to create a more coordinated and accessible mental health system, particularly for individuals with complex needs.  

Former President and CEO Christi Coady Narayanan speaks at one of Opp Fund's anniversary events. Courtesy photo.
OppFund looks back on impact with 40th anniversary; new leadership looks to continue legacy

For more than 35 years, Christi Coady Narayanan led the transformative work of the Opportunity Resource Fund (OppFund), as the President and CEO of the nonprofit community development financial institution. She retired last month, passing the torch to the new President and CEO Byna Elliott, to continue the organization’s unwavering commitment and innovation in empowering individuals, businesses, and communities all over the state.

The START Collaborative's first retreat in January 2024.
From tornado to ice storm, collaborative addresses unmet needs in Otsego County

Inspired by a string of recent disasters, the START Collaborative aims to address unmet needs in Otsego County through collaboration between nonprofits, schools, hospitals, government entities, and businesses.

Victors for Veterans
Doctors expand dental care access for veterans in need

Two Michigan veterans care advocates are tackling the critical gap in veterans’ dental care, offering free clinics through grants and sustainable community programs.  

Community mental health delivers care to Michigan’s schools

Michigan's CMHs play a critical role in schools, providing counseling, crisis intervention, and case management to students who might otherwise slip through the cracks.  

Our Partners

WKKF logo
Kresge Foundation logo
IFF logo
JP Morgan Chase logo
Ford Foundation logo
Delta Dental Foundation logo

Don't miss out!

Inspiration and ideas in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

Already a subscriber? Enter your email to hide this popup in the future.