SmartZone 2.0 Facilitator

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) is issuing this Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to solicit qualifications from experienced individuals or firms to serve as the SmartZone 2.0 Working Group Facilitator.

 

More Details:

The selected Contractor will provide facilitation, coordination, and strategic support services to assist MEDC and statewide SmartZone stakeholders in developing governance frameworks, policy recommendations, and potential legislative updates associated with the SmartZone 2.0 initiative.

View full RFQ here.

Background:

Over the past six months, an internal cross-functional team at the MEDC has explored potential updates to the State of Michigan’s SmartZone structure and related program administration guidelines. Recognizing that statutory changes require broad legislative support and stakeholder alignment, MEDC is transitioning from internal design to a collaborative co-creation model.

The next phase of this effort will launch the SmartZone 2.0 Working Group — a statewide consortium comprised of SmartZone leaders, MEDC representatives, and ecosystem partners. This group will jointly refine governance structures, policy frameworks, and operational design to modernize and strengthen Michigan’s innovation ecosystem.

To ensure effective coordination and engagement, the MEDC is seeking a qualified facilitator to lead and manage the SmartZone 2.0 Working Group process.

Timeline and Budget: 

  • Project Length/Timeline:
    • RFP release: Tuesday, April 7, 2026.

    • Proposals must be received no later than 5:00 pm on Tuesday, April 14, 2026. Late submissions may be rejected.

  • Proposals should be emailed to [email protected].