Google High
Along with the promise of 1,000 new jobs, Google's Adwords office is embracing Ann Arbor in unexpected ways: assisting local non-profits and even teaching high school.
Greenways = Greenbacks
Green spaces are not only good for quality of life, environment and recreation, they can also boost the local economy. Think of them as a way to increase your bottom line while reducing your bottom size.
Good Things Come In Small Packages
Since the decline of the Big Three, it's become clear Michigan businesses need a new model. As technology firms pop up, and global communications allow small companies to compete internationally like never before, more start-ups are realizing that it pays to be David when you're battling Goliaths.
Investing In Michigan
For 26 years the Michigan Growth Capital Symposium has paired exciting new start-ups with eager financiers. While a lot of attention is paid to those companies that find investment, it's the venture capitalists who provide fuel for the fire... and 75% of those who attend are from out of state.
Foragers Guide To Employee Perks
Last month's open house at Google AdWords in Ann Arbor caught the eyes of many 9 to 5ers left wondering why their companies don't provide catered lunches, free massages or superhero cubicle décor. Where are the Michigan businesses with benefits beyond the 401k? And why aren't there more of them? The region has some catching up to do when it comes to unorthodox work perks and places, but there's hope yet.
whiteMAKO
Ready or not here he comes! There are plenty of 20 year-olds who think they can change the world but how many of them have started a lucrative web design and multimedia firm at age thirteen? Meet Chris Mwakasisi, CEO of whiteMAKO.
Video Xoran Technologies
Xoran Technologies is on a mission to cut healthcare costs through efficiency and innovation. It's been a winning strategy for both the company and Ann Arbor's growing life sciences industry
The Kids Are Alright
When we talk about quality of life issues, who considers the region's sizable teen population? Ann Arbor's Neutral Zone is setting the bar for teen community centers, making use of the latest technologies and trends while nurturing the kind of homegrown talent Michigan desperately needs.
Can You Say Oliebollen?
"No, that bib doesn't come in scotch plaid." Fashionable kids clothes really are out there--and Oliebollen, an Ann Arbor online store, helps sartorial young parents find them all in one place.
Google Arrives In Ann Arbor
With much hoopla, Google held a formal open house for their new Adwords division in downtown Ann Arbor. Metromode went on the tour, sampled the buffet and saw more lava lamps and Mr. Potato Heads than you could possibly imagine.
