Michigan, for more than 100 years has been the center of the automotive industry. But today the industry is changing as automobiles become equipped with devices and systems that are autonomous and connect you to the world. However, the state is still at the forefront of automotive and this disruptive technology evolution, doing what we do best, letting our entrepreneurs and innovators lead the way for the nation and the world to follow!

Michigan is taking connectivity to the next level, not only in automotive, but across diverse industries. We’re exploring the ability for connected technologies to enable innovation in Mobility, Smart Cities, Connected Health, Smart Manufacturing, Defense, Cyber Security, Business Services, Consumer Services and more! And we’re leading the way in developing new laws to keep up with Mobility advances, investing in infrastructure to enable testing of Mobility technologies and encouraging development of new small businesses andScience, Technology, English, Math-focused training programs to ensure our state’s ability to provide the workforce Michigan companies need to keep moving forward.

Connected technologies in Michigan are creating jobs – in small business and enterprise level firms. Studies conducted by a collaboration of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and the Mobile Technology Association of Michigan (MTAM) have shown that every connected tech job created in the state also creates 6.54 additional jobs, and that the average compensation for a connected tech-related position in Michigan is over $89,000 annually, which is substantially higher than the state’s average income of $51,084.

Given the state’s leadership in connected technologies – and the jobs being created as a result – the time is right for TiE Detroit to make Connected World / Connected Technologies the focus for TiECon Detroit 2017 Ignite2Disrupt, Michigan’s largest entrepreneurial conference.

The conference will provide an array of opportunities to exchange ideas, explore new businesses, discuss emerging technologies, share growth strategies, and obtain insight from global business leaders, community leaders and worldwide experts.