Technology & Innovation

Coverage of innovative research, development and deployment of technology and technological advances, including hardware, software, and software as service.

Applications open for 2026–27 PitchMI startup competition

The 2026–27 PitchMI startup competition is officially open for applications until August 10, putting $2 million in investment capital on the line for high-growth Michigan founders.

Latest in Technology & Innovation
State issues Line 5 permits despite conceding its ‘significant impacts’

Michigan state agencies have issued key environmental permits for Enbridge Energy’s controversial Line 5 tunnel project, ruling that its energy safety benefits outweigh its severe impacts on Native American burial grounds and local ecosystems, though the project still faces looming federal approvals and ongoing legal battles.

The U.P. company engineering the sound of survival for the military

A Calumet-based defense contractor specializing in acoustic engineering and sound-canceling hardware for the U.S. military, has completed an $8.5 million facility expansion.

How Michigan farmers are using a new app to make critical crop decisions right from the tractor 

The free Enviroweather Mobile app, developed by Michigan State University specialists and the Michigan State Horticultural Society, provides farmers with real-time environmental data and predictive crop modeling on their smartphones.

How startup Vanly is mapping the future of life on the road

Vanly, a West Michigan-based startup, addresses the critical "where-to-sleep" anxiety by connecting travelers with a nationwide network of private parking hosts.

Teaching the Future: Michigan schools are embracing AI integration

Michigan K-12 districts are proactively integrating AI literacy into curricula to prepare students for a rapidly evolving workforce, with key initiatives led by Marquette-Alger RESA, Ypsilanti Community High School, and West Ottawa Public Schools.

Guardian of the Straits: Enbridge’s 10,000-ship milestone

The 10,000th ship was safely monitored and cleared through the Straits of Mackinac last month by the Enbridge Straits Maritime Operations Center.

Small Town, Big Heart: Freeland Fabricators build more than robots

In the “Bot Cave,” the Freeland Fabricators are building more than a robot. They are building confidence, leadership, friendships and a sense of purpose. While the team has earned international recognition in FIRST Robotics, students say the real impact goes far beyond competition, shaping who they are and how they show up for their community.

Marine City wayfinding project launches action plan for economic growth

New wayfinding signage will connect four business districts and help boost the local economy.

Nearly $300K in Seed Awards bolster Michigan’s local food and farming

Nearly $300,000 in Seed Awards from the Michigan Good Food Fund will support 18 food and farm businesses across Michigan, helping small, locally rooted operations grow and improve food access.

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