Eastern Michigan University College of Business: Support for House Bill 5031

Summary

This is a letter dated January 31, 2026, written on behalf of the Eastern Michigan University College of Business, expressing strong support for House Bill 5031. The letter says the bill would authorize the renewal and continuation of Technology Improvement Financing (TIF) through Michigan's SmartZone program. It states that renewal of SmartZone TIF authority would allow Ypsilanti to continue investing in programs and partnerships that connect emerging companies with university talent, research expertise, and business support services. The letter closes with the name Amy B. Hietapelto, Dean.

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Full text

January 31, 2026

On behalf of the Eastern Michigan University College of Business, I am writing to express our
strong support for House Bill 5031, which would authorize the renewal and continuation
of Technology Improvement Financing (TIF) through Michigan’s SmartZone program.
This legislation is vital to sustaining innovation-driven economic development and workforce
preparation in the City of Ypsilanti and throughout the region.

As a public university deeply rooted in Ypsilanti, Eastern Michigan University plays a central
role in educating the region’s current and future business leaders, entrepreneurs, and
professionals. The SmartZone program directly complements this mission by strengthening
the local entrepreneurial ecosystem, supporting business creation and growth, and
expanding opportunities for experiential learning, internships, and talent retention for our
students.

Renewal of SmartZone TIF authority through HB 5031 would allow Ypsilanti to continue
investing in programs and partnerships that connect emerging companies with university
talent, research expertise, and business support services. These investments help ensure that
graduates of the EMU College of Business can pursue meaningful career opportunities locally
while contributing to the city’s long-term economic vitality.

We have seen how SmartZone-supported initiatives encourage collaboration among higher
education, local government, and the private sector—an alignment that is essential for
inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Continued SmartZone funding will help Ypsilanti
remain competitive in attracting innovative companies, supporting small businesses, and
preparing a skilled workforce ready to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving economy.

The Eastern Michigan University College of Business supports HB 5031 and advocates for its
passage. We look forward to continuing our partnership with Ann Arbor SPARK and our
regional stakeholders to advance innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic opportunity
for our students and community.

Thank you in advance for the support of House Bill 5031, authorizing renewal and
continuation of the vitally important Technology Improvement Financing (TIF) through
Michigan’s SmartZone program.

Sincerely,

Amy B. Hietapelto

Amy B. Hietapelto, Dean


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