International Landing Zone opportunity now open for applications

The International Landing Zone (ILZ) at the Velocity Center in Sterling Heights, Michigan, is now open for applications, due by February 6. Spearheaded by the Michigan Defense Center, this project is in collaboration with the Macomb-OU INCubator and Macomb County.

Strategically located in Michigan’s defense corridor, the ILZ provides space for international companies with proven success in the defense and homeland security industries. Macomb County is home to 63 percent of the defense business in Michigan, with nearly 600 companies performing defense contract business. Companies transacted over $26 billion in defense business between 2000 and 2010, and more than 30,000 workers are engaged in engineering, research and development.

Companies locating to the ILZ are able to explore the feasibility of opening or expanding operations in the United States. Before making a large investment in the United States markets, foreign firms that complete a successful application have the unique opportunity to take advantage of a “soft landing” at the ILZ through office space and targeted assistance designed to help tenants reach goals for growth.

In addition to six months of complimentary rent, advantages to the ILZ include meeting potential customers, gaining access to mentors and industry experts, expanding and extending contractor relationships and exploring adjacent industrial sectors. Benefits of the ILZ also include the co-location with the Michigan Defense Center; well-appointed space with a full suite of office amenities, service, and support, including internet, phone and mailing address; dedicated meeting and training rooms; access to local training and workshops; an onsite caterer; and videoconferencing technology.

For more information and the application, visit michigandefensecenter.com/land-here. Selected applicants will be announced by February 27, 2015.

The Macomb-Oakland University INCubator supports economic development in Southeast Michigan by accelerating high-tech businesses, cultivating academic innovation and encouraging research & development. To help small businesses grow, the incubator creates customized success strategies for startup and emerging companies in the niche industries of defense, homeland security, advanced manufacturing and technology. For more information, visit the incubator website at oakland.edu/macombouinc.