"We're excited to take our years of experience testing autonomous robotic solutions and focus on picking up end-of-life materials. And Detroit is a fantastic place to deploy these civic infrastructure tests as the city is focused both on future technology opportunities and the needs of communities," says Orange Sparkle Ball's Ashley Touchton.
Artificial Intelligence offers enormous opportunities across industries, but universities in Michigan are aware of the need to implement the technology responsibly and are leading the charge on how to do so.
“Equitable access to high-speed internet and digital literacy tools can mean the difference between success and failure for our residents, whether they’re working on schoolwork, finding a job, or navigating workforce training tools,” says Deputy Mayor Todd Bettison.
“In Michigan, our vision for mobility extends beyond the traditional automobile. By innovating our mobility ecosystems, we're not only enhancing the quality of life for our residents but also providing robust support to diverse industries,” says Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist.
“The EPIC Prize will really help the entrepreneurs in these incubators bring their technologies to market faster,” says Dr. Vanessa Z. Chan, Chief Commercialization Officer for the U.S. DOE's Office of Technology Transitions.
"We know the startup journey is challenging and that there are distinct hurdles along the way, especially for founders from underrepresented communities," says Joshua Sirefman, CEO of Michigan Central. "This program is a key step in removing some of those barriers to help innovation thrive."
MI Mental Health spoke with Northern Lakes Community Mental Health Chief Operations Officer Joanie Blamer and Sanilac County Community Mental Health CEO Wil Morris on addressing the mental health and wellness needs of rural communities.
“As Detroit continues to cement itself as the premier technology hub, it’s critical to highlight and lift up our Black talent and entrepreneurs who have made Detroit into the destination it is,” says James Feagin, founder of Venture 313.
“Accessible self-driving shuttles for people with disabilities is a game changer,” says Detroit's Director of Disability Affairs, Christopher Samp. “A person with a disability will be able to use this service to simply go directly to their destination. Some individuals with a disability who are not able to obtain a driving license can reclaim their independence with the ability to travel with self-driving cars.”
“With the support of MEDC, PlugZen is committed to making sure Metro Detroit communities have access to affordable EV charging and a stake in the future of the EV infrastructure they depend on," says Kwabena "Q" Johnson, president at PlugZen.
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