New collaboration to bring innovative companies from Israel to test tech in Michigan

DETROIT – (January 17, 2019) – An international collaboration will enhance mobility technology testing and piloting in Michigan during 2019.

The Israel Michigan Autonomous Technologies Collaboration (IMATC) program that will be implemented by the Israel Innovation Authority and PlanetM, will provides grant funding for Israeli innovative companies to access Michigan’s testing facilities, specifically in the automotive industry.

“Israel’s start-up culture and Michigan’s leadership in mobility are a natural fit for business,” said Sandy Selinger, Executive Director of the Michigan Israel Business Accelerator and one of the driving forces behind this initiative. “This program will generate partnerships that will benefit the economies in both locations.”

IMATC will support qualified Israeli technology companies to test in Michigan facilities such as the American Center for Mobility, MCity, Kettering University GM Mobility Research Center and even on Michigan roads. Companies will also have access to top technology incubators, accelerators and industry leaders operating in the state of Michigan.

“We are actively recruiting innovative companies from Israel that are in advance stage of R&D and are committed to the emerging technological areas of mobility,” said Jonathan Cohen of the Israel Innovation Authority. “This co-grant funding opportunity will allow them a world class testing experience in order to get cutting edge concepts to the US market faster.”

“Michigan’s mobility assets, including the ability to test technology in all weather conditions serve as a unique opportunity for Israeli companies. We’re proud to be able to provide access to what Michigan has to companies from around the world,” said Seun Phillips, PlanetM Director.

Qualifying companies from Israel should have products in a stage following proof of concept, ready for demonstration, ready to be commercialized or ready for market. Funding will be awarded on a rolling basis through November 2019.

More details on applying for the grants will be available at PlanetM.com/grants in the coming weeks.

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation/PlanetM

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. To learn more about Michigan’s leadership in the revolution in transportation, visit www.PlanetM.com. Michigan has a unique and vast ecosystem that is leading the way in transforming the way people and goods are transported across all modes of transportation. Join the conversation on: www.linkedIn.com/company/planetm/,

twitter.com/planetm and YouTube.