Granholm Announces Phase Two of Centers of Energy Excellence Program

Brings companies, academic institutions and the state together to support cutting-edge research and development and pioneer new alternative energy technologies.

LANSING – Governor Jennifer M. Granholm and Michigan Economic Development Corporation President and CEO Greg Main today announced the launch of phase two of the Centers of Energy Excellence (COEE) program. The program brings companies, academic institutions and the state together to support cutting-edge research and development and pioneer new alternative energy technologies. 

“Centers of Energy Excellence have enabled innovative companies to partner with our world-class universities to help make Michigan a leader in the alternative energy industry,” Granholm said. “This program is part of our continued strategy to diversify our economy, create new jobs, and be the state that helps end our nation’s dependence on foreign oil.” 

In 2008, the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) board awarded $43 million to six designated Centers of Energy Excellence. Last year, the governor signed 2009 PA 144 which allowed a second phase of the COEE program. The MSF today approved $30 million to administer the program and award grants to COEE designees.   

“The Centers of Energy Excellence program is helping Michigan develop, grow and sustain alternative energy clusters, new companies and new jobs,” said Main, who is also chair of the MSF board. “We are excited to be able continue this successful endeavor.”  

The six Centers of Energy Excellence designated in 2008 are: A123 Systems, Inc. and Sakti3 in Ann Arbor, Working Bugs LLC in Webberville, American Process Inc. in Alpena, Swedish Biogas Internationalin Flint and Mascoma Corporationin Kinross (eastern Upper Peninsula). 

For complete details on how companies can apply for funding, including eligibility requirements, proposal format and the application process, please visit www.MichiganBusiness.org/COEE 

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter.