EntrepreNEWS - News and events in the world of technology and business in Southeast Michigan
New Programs Equip Local Workforce with Technical Training Skills

Michigan's technology and manufacturing industries are experiencing a shortage of skilled employees with the knowledge and know-how to work confidently in today's technologically advanced professional landscape. But two new Michigan-based programs are doing their part to help create jobs and keep skilled talent in the state. Automation Alley's Code ReConnect program and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation's Michigan Advanced Technician Training (MAT�) program will each provide high-level training to place job seekers on a path to career success. [read more]

In Your Pocket: Central Michigan University to Host New Venture Competition 2014

The Central Michigan University New Venture Competition is just around the corner, and student teams are gearing up to compete for startup cash in an effort to transform their ideas into sustainable business ventures. After an eight month period – which begins in September and includes workshops, coaching and networking – the experience will culminate on Venture Competition Day, March 28 on the Mt. Pleasant campus of CMU at the College of Business.

All participating teams will gain insight, advice, mentorship and expertise from seasoned entrepreneurs, alumni, venture capital experts, angel investors and community leaders. In 2013, the CMU New Venture Competition awarded more than $65,000 in startup cash and in-kind prizes. Today, 15 teams are in business as a result. 

For more information, click here.

Local Startup Creating 'Buz' Through Frequency Marketing for Disney, DreamWorks
Buz FM Car
Stephen and Laurie Sadler launched Buz.fm in 2011. The Web broadcast development company – which provides technology solutions for Internet broadcast, social media and marketing – is focusing its attention on gaining large entertainment clients like Walt Disney and DreamWorks.

All entrepreneurs in the tech sector face challenges when launching a business, especially with rapid changes to technology, consumer tastes and market conditions. But the most successful business leaders are those who can push through the obstacles by maintaining a level of agility, flexibility and resilience.� Stephen Sadler, president and CEO of Buz FM Inc. (Buz.fm), has found that business success and survival is dependant on adaptation.

Launched in 2011, Buz.fm is a small Web application development company that employs a team of 16 at its 7,200 square-foot Orion Township headquarters. The company provides solutions to its clients in the areas of Internet broadcast, social media and marketing technologies. [read more]

TechTown DTX Launch Detroit – March 14
Applications for the summer 2014 session of TechTown’s DTX Launch Detroit are due March 14. Launch Detroit is a highly competitive, 10-week summer accelerator for college students and recent graduates aspiring to launch a technology startup. Participants will receive an entrepreneurial stipend of up to $2,500 per individual (up to $7,500 per venture team).

Click here to apply.

GreenLight Business Model Competition – March 14
Applications to pitch at the GreenLight Business Model Competition will be accepted through March 14. Attendees are asked to register by March 21. The GreenLight Business Model Competition, held at the Hannah Community Center in East Lansing, is mid-Michigan's entrepreneurship showcase in which participants compete for up to $50,000 in cash prizes. There are also opportunities to network with angel and venture capital investors and entrepreneurs from across the state. To compete, applicants must be Michigan residents or students that have a company or idea that has been in existence for less than one year.

Click here to apply.

MiQuest’s GLEQ Business Plan Competition – March 31
Sign up by March 31 for the spring 2014 GLEQ Business Plan Competition. All entrepreneurs are encouraged to participate for a chance to win prizes to move their ventures forward. Each participant will be matched with an expert coach and will meet with investors.

Click here to sign up.

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