Dan Casey, Manager of Economic Development for the City of Rochester Hills,  writes to Drive Network members about a great opportunity for entrepreneurs:

The Michigan SmartZones are catalysts for new business development and growth and work with the many agencies around the state that provide services to small businesses.  Below is information about a presentation that is being spearheaded by one of the SmartZones in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corp. and U of M. Tuesday, July 14, from noon to 2 pm, Skip Simms from Ann Arbor Spark is hosting a panel presentation/discussion about all the programs the state of Michigan has available for early stage companies.  It will cover grants, tax incentives, loan guarantees, loans and equity investments.  Andy McColm with U of M Tech Transfer, Ned Staebler from the MEDC and Skip will discuss each program individually giving a short explanation of how each works, who is eligible and how to apply. The presentation will be streamed on the web live so people from anywhere can see it.  You will also be able to ask questions live via the web.  About a week later it’ll be recorded and posted on Ann Arbor Spark’s web site so you can view it at your leisure. If you would like to participate in the presentation, the link is http://www.annarborusa.org/start-ups/pre-seed-fund/live/.  Again, it begins at noon on July 14.

Should be a great event, be sure to go if you are looking to raise money. You can follow the Drive Network on Twitter @drive_network.