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Michigan Innovation Equipment Depot Launches Next Phase of Distribution

ANN ARBOR, Mich., Aug. 21 /PRNewswire/ -- Ann Arbor SPARK, the region's driving force of innovation and economic development, will soon launch the next phase of distribution through the Michigan Innovation Equipment Depot (MIED). MIED providesMichigan's life science start-ups with valuable research and technical equipment, donated by Pfizer and other leading companies.

"MIED is making a significant impact onMichigan's ability to attract and retain life science start-ups, and the high-value knowledge workers that support these businesses," said Michael A. Finney, CEO of Ann Arbor SPARK. "Helping companies that don't have the resources to obtain high-value equipment that's critical for research is a catalyst for moving companies forward in their life cycle. MIED directly supportsMichigan's ability to incubate and grow businesses, and ultimately, the state's new economy."

MIED's phase four will make available 350 pieces of technical equipment previously donated by Pfizer. To date, MIED has provided more than 900 pieces of equipment to nearly 100 Michigan start-ups. This latest distribution is part of the $4.5 million in surplus lab equipment donated in January by Pfizer'sAnn Arbor site. MIED is supported by $550,000 in funding from Michigan's 21st Century Jobs Fund.

Life science companies throughout the state can apply for equipment currently available through phase four of MIED, including high-value items like micro and mass spectrometers, UV Vis detectors, and GC systems. Like all equipment dispersed throughout MIED, this equipment, ranging in value from $5,000-25,000, is available to qualifying companies for licensed use for one percent of its value.

For a current list of equipment available through MIED or to apply for equipment through the program, visit http://www.annarborspark.org/start-ups/equipment-for-start-ups/ .

ABOUT MICHIGAN INNOVATION EQUIPMENT DEPOT (MIED)

Pfizer Global Research and Development, Ann Arbor SPARK, MichBio, Southwest Michigan First andMichigan's Smart Zones have formed a consortium to establish the Michigan Innovation Equipment Depot. MIED's mission is to provide life science start-up companies throughoutMichigan with equipment resources to continue their growth. MIED equipment disbursements are intended for start-up companies and wet lab incubators. For more information, visit http://www.annarborspark.org/start-ups/equipment-for-start-ups/ .

SOURCE Ann Arbor SPARK

Tags: ,MTC,HEA,BIO,MI-Ann-Arbor-SPARK

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