First application cycle for new Innovation Fund opens   

Applications for the first round of funding from the new Innovation Fund Macomb Community College, Powered by JPMorgan Chase & Co., are open and will be accepted online through April 30, 2015, at www.macomb.edu/cie. Entrepreneurs involved in high-growth technology-focused businesses, such as advanced manufacturing, information technology, alternative energy, healthcare, and logistics and supply chain, are eligible to apply.  There are two funding options available.  The first is a grant of up to $25,000 to support early-stage businesses taking the initial steps in market introduction. The second is an award, up to $100,000, which must be matched dollar for dollar, to advance the progress of emerging companies toward larger-scale funding.

An information session will be held on Tues., February 24, 4:30 - 6 p.m., at the University Center on Macomb Community College's Center Campus, Hall and Garfield roads, Clinton Township. To RSVP for the session, email cie@macomb.edu.

The Innovation Fund was established with a $1 million commitment by JPMorgan Chase, matched by $1 million from Macomb Community College's Strategic Fund.  It is designed to stimulate economic development and job growth, providing valuable capital to entrepreneurs at a pivotal time in business development between "family and friends" funding and the ability to attract mainstream financial investor funding.  The Innovation Fund is part of Macomb's Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, a one-stop resource for both students and community members for entrepreneurship education and training, mentorship for startups and existing small business, and access to capital. For more information, visit

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Macomb Center for the Performing Arts along with Michigan Opera Theatre is celebrating the Michigan Premiere of Xavier Rodriguez's Opera FRIDA with a Gala at 5:30pm on March 7 at the Lorenzo Cultural Center. The Gala will feature appetizers inspired by Frida's favorite Mexican cuisine and a complimentary bar. Patrons may also choose to attend a Champagne and Dessert Afterglow following the performances on either March 7 or March 8 and meet Soprano Catalina Cuervo and Bass Ricardo Herrera. For information about pricing or to make a reservation, please call 586.286.2095.

Chamber members are invited to attend CARE's Bike PATH Kick Off Breakfast on February 27 at 8 a.m. at Freedom Hill's Banquet Center. Learn more about Bike PATH, creating a team, participating, volunteering or providing additional support. Bike PATH is CARE's signature fundraiser taking place on May 17 at Lake St. Clair Metropark. This event allows CARE to serve over 25,000 individuals each year by providing programing focused on substance use disorders, mental health and family support.  

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The fourth annual Michigan Women's Entrepreneur-YOU Conference, an event that provides resources, tools and support for women entrepreneurs, will be held at Walsh College on March 20, 2015.  Registration is now open at www.walshcollege.edu/eyouconference.  

Walsh College Alumni Association will host a Casino Night on March 20 from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. Hosted at Emagine Royal Oak, Casino Night is a fun-filled night of gaming on professional tables, March Madness Tournaments on big screens, cash bar, strolling appetizers, and a chance to win fabulous prizes. Tickets are $60. Online registration and sponsorship available at www.walshcollege.edu/casinonight.

Send Member News to Michelle Fusco at michelle@macombcountychamber.com