HOUGHTON, MI – January 6, 2025 –
MTEC SmartZone is proud to announce the appointment of Grace Hsia Haberl as the Program Director for the AMMP Accelerator. In this newly created role, Grace will oversee the strategic planning, organization, and direction of all phases of the AMMP Accelerator programs
“I’m excited to take on this expanded role and continue growing the work I’ve been so passionate about during the inaugural year of the AMMP Accelerator,” said Grace. “The Upper Peninsula is an amazing place to grow a company, and its rich expertise in advanced materials and manufacturing presents tremendous opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship.”
Grace has played a pivotal role as co-director during the first year of the AMMP Accelerator. She brings over thirteen years of experience in economic development, business management, fundraising (raising over $6.6M), board leadership, and executive management. In addition, Grace is an accomplished professor of entrepreneurship at the University of Michigan, Chair Emerita for the University of Michigan College of Engineering Alumni Board (MEAB), and an award-winning entrepreneur with a proven track record in entrepreneurial education and curriculum design.
“We are absolutely thrilled to have Grace lead the AMMP Accelerator’s Entrepreneurial Programming,” said MTEC SmartZone CEO, David Rowe. “Her vast experience, passion for innovation, and deep understanding of the entrepreneurial ecosystem make her an invaluable asset to our team. With her leadership, we are confident that the AMMP Accelerator will continue to thrive and make a meaningful impact on the entrepreneurs we support.”
Collaboration between the MTEC SmartZone and the AMMP Accelerator is key to the program’s success. Grace’s role will serve as a vital link between the two organizations, ensuring smooth communication and alignment. “Having helped launch and manage the AMMP Accelerator, I’m excited to leverage my experience and work closely with the MTEC SmartZone leadership team to advance the program’s goals,” added Grace. “I’m looking forward to applying my knowledge of Michigan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and industry connections to drive strategic growth and innovation within the program.”
Grace will begin her new position on January 6th on a part-time, remote basis, transitioning to full-time once the program officially kicks off in May.
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About MTEC
Michigan Tech Enterprise Corporation (MTEC) is one of 21 SmartZone Incubators in the State of Michigan. MTEC is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization working with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), its mission is to facilitate the creation and ongoing success of high-tech value propositions in conjunction with the local entrepreneurial ecosystem. Since 2003, the MTEC SmartZone has provided mentoring, technical support, and other services to local companies that have led to the creation of over 800 high-tech jobs in the Houghton and Hancock Michigan area.
About MEDC
The Michigan Economic Development Corporation, in collaboration with more than 100 economic development partners, markets Michigan as the place to do business, assists businesses in their growth strategies, and fosters the growth of vibrant communities across the state. MEDC’s Entrepreneurship & Innovation initiative establishes Michigan as the place to create and grow a business by providing high-tech start-up companies with access to a variety of critical resources, such as funding and expert counsel, from ideation to maturation. For more on MEDC Entrepreneurship & Innovation, visit michiganbusiness.org/entrepreneurship