The Bridge Incubator in Grand Rapids Celebrates Grand Opening

Spartan Innovations and Rockford Construction recently hosted a grand opening celebration for The Bridge, a highly-anticipated incubator space located on the fourth floor of the Doug Meijer Medical Innovation Building, within the Michigan State University (MSU) Innovation Park in Grand Rapids.

“Michigan has a rich history of entrepreneurship and continues to have a thriving startup scene, particularly in the technology, healthcare and education fields,” said David Washburn, executive director of the MSU Research Foundation. “The Bridge will strengthen our state’s economic growth by connecting innovative people and ideas in the heart of Grand Rapids.”

The March event was attended by community leaders and tech-savvy entrepreneurs, with opening remarks from the MSU Research Foundation, Spartan Innovations, Rockford Construction, the City of Grand Rapids, and the MSU College of Human Medicine. “From its open, collaborative spaces, to more private office settings, The Bridge has something for everyone, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome new, qualifying companies and be a part of their business growth journey,” said Kyle McGregor, director of health innovation at Spartan Innovations. “We appreciate everyone who attended our open house and look forward to welcoming more tenants in the coming months.”

The event also recognized Farmish, Smart Bridge and Wedge HR, the first three confirmed tenants of The Bridge:

·  Farmish is a local foods marketplace app that brings together specialty ag growers with buyers.

·  Smart Bridge Medical is developing respiratory management devices that prevent accidental ventilator disconnects, known clinically as "pop off."

· Wedge is an HR platform to attract, pitch, and fast-track the most passionate applicants with video.

To learn more about The Bridge, or to schedule a tour, please contact Elise Bassi at ebassi@rockfordconstruction.com, or Kyle McGregor at kyle@spartaninnovations.org.