The Sterling Heights Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA) has awarded Macomb County-based Alchemist Ventures LLC a contract to provide entrepreneurial services focused on the areas of technology, engineering, and manufacturing development.
Alchemist will support all entrepreneurship activity hosted at the Velocity Collaboration Center, an authorized SmartZone by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
“We are delighted to have the opportunity to serve the citizens and business owners of Sterling Heights and Macomb County,” said Alchemist Ventures Founder Patrick Wearn. “We are eager to both share our expertise and learn from citizens, entrepreneurs, small businesses and large businesses to help drive innovation and growth across the region.”
The Velocity Center, powered by Alchemist Ventures, will provide entrepreneurial services, training and education, and event hosting. The site includes a co-working space dubbed as “The Element,” offices for rent, conference rooms, and a large room for hosting events. The Element is also a newly launched initiative paid for by the Sterling Heights LDFA to assist in the flexible, on-going remote working needs of small business and startups.
“The fundamental needs of start-up companies have changed. Today, they require more innovative services, access to talent, and more “hands-on” support,” said Sterling Heights Senior Economic Development Advisor Luke Bonner. “Likewise, existing businesses have a significant need to access talent in light of major labor shortages. The City’s Economic Development Team has recommended the best course of action is to work with an incredibly experienced team of industry experts at Alchemist Ventures to make sure we’re meeting the needs of both start-ups and existing businesses in our community.”
“The Sterling Heights Regional Chamber of Commerce is proud to partner with and welcome Alchemist Ventures to the Velocity Center. Their success in growing businesses is exactly what our business community needs, especially now when many have had to change direction or chart a new course,” said Chamber President and CEO Stacy Ziarko.
Founded in 2017, Alchemist Ventures helps organizations increase growth through advanced technologies, new partnerships, and disciplined processes.
More information about Alchemist Ventures or The Velocity Center can be found at velocity-center.com. Located at 6633 18 Mile Road in Sterling Heights, The Velocity Center is within a Pure Michigan SmartZone in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.