Michigan Innovation Equipment Depot

Great Ideas Need Great Support

The Michigan Innovation Equipment Depot (MIED) facilitates the growth of biosciences companies throughout Michigan with access to previously-used laboratory equipment critical to product research, development and manufacturing. MIED is the result of the collaborative efforts of Pfizer, MichBio, Ann Arbor SPARK, Southwest Michigan First and other Michigan SmartZones to accelerate the commercialization of biotechnologies developed in the state. MIED equipment disbursements are intended for start-up companies and wet lab incubators.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Michigan-based biosciences company
• Certificate of Eligibility from your SmartZone
• Certificate of Good Standing from the State of Michigan

Steps to Apply:

• Contact your nearest SmartZone and ask for a Certificate of Eligibility. The SmartZone is responsible for validating eligibility.
• Contact the Secretary of State for a Certificate of Good Standing (517-241-6470).
• Register for the program by filling out the online registration form at www.annarborspark.org. Include the above certificates and an executive summary stating purpose or mission.

Once the registration application is received and accepted, applicants will be sent a list of available equipment and the official equipment request form. Use this form to select the equipment you want and return it to Ann Arbor SPARK.

Once registered, the maximum fair market dollar value that any one company may receive is $150,000 of equipment per year. A company may apply for up to 20 units of equipment/instruments or systems each month and a new application may be made each month (minimum of 30 days following last application).

Who makes the decisions regarding equipment donation through the MIED?
Each SmartZone is responsible for due diligence of the companies and their requests. MichBio helps facilitate requests to determine the best use of equipment for the benefit of Michigan’s fast growing biosciences sectors. Suitable applications are forwarded to an independent review committee consisting of scientists and entrepreneurs representing a cross-section of geography and public/private interests in various biosciences industry sectors. In the event of multiple requests for equipment, the equipment review panel will give priority to companies who follow the MIED request stipulations and who detail need and/or priorities.

Is there a cost?
Yes. Within 30 days of receiving the completed equipment request, the receiving company will be sent a license agreement and an invoice for 1% of the fair market value of the total equipment amount received to help cover the administrative costs of the program.

How is the equipment delivered to the selected recipients?
With receipt of the signed license agreement and license fee, each recipient is asked to make arrangements to pick up the equipment or have it delivered by a freight company or other source.

For more information contact:
Stephen Rapundalo, Ph.D.
MichBio President & CEO
(734) 527-9144
srapundalo@michbio.org

Also visit:
More information
Available Equipment as of 1/19/09
Map to MIED