Open House August 21 to Feature Fifth Third Bank eBus, Lunch, and Co-Working

YPSILANTI, Mich. (August 5, 2025) – Ann Arbor SPARK is deepening its commitment to inclusive entrepreneurial support with the launch of the Entrepreneur Resource Studio, a new program housed at the SPARK East Innovation Center in downtown Ypsilanti. The program includes weekly drop-in consulting for small business success, co-working opportunities, and tailored technical assistance—all designed to help small businesses thrive. The new program is supported by Fifth Third Bank, a long-time champion of community empowerment and financial wellness.

The program launches Thursday, August 21, with an open house event from noon to 5 p.m., featuring free co-working, lunch, and the Fifth Third Bank Empowerment Mobile (eBus). The eBus will be on site in front of SPARK East, offering personalized financial consulting for individuals and small business owners. Attendees can meet local business consultants and explore resources available through the Entrepreneur Resource Studio. Space is limited—please RSVP to reserve your spot here.

“We are excited to help small businesses thrive in Ypsilanti by supporting SPARK’s Entrepreneur Resource Studio as well as making the eBus available to residents,” said Tawnya Rose, Vice President and Community Impact Manager II for Michigan, Fifth Third Bank. “At Fifth Third Bank, we are committed to empowering communities with responsible and innovative financial solutions.”

Beginning Thursday, August 28, SPARK will offer weekly drop-in hours every Thursday at SPARK East, with open co-working space and access to one-on-one technical business consulting. Business experts will be available to support entrepreneurs with challenges related to business planning, marketing, finance, and operations.

“Ypsilanti is full of entrepreneurial energy and talent, and this program is all about meeting people where they are and offering tools they need to succeed,” said Kristine Nash-Wong, director of entrepreneurial services at SPARK East. “Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow, the Entrepreneur Resource Studio offers a welcoming space and direct support to help you take the next step.”

The Entrepreneur Resource Studio is the latest addition to the growing list of small business services available at SPARK East, Ann Arbor SPARK’s innovation hub in Ypsilanti. Since opening in 2008, SPARK East has supported a diverse community of entrepreneurs through coworking space, startup incubator suites, business coaching, access to funding programs like Innovate Ypsi, and small business workshops. The center is a vital part of SPARK’s work to build a more inclusive regional economy and foster growth in communities across Washtenaw County.

To learn more about the Entrepreneur Resource Studio and other small business services, visit https://annarborusa.org/smallbusiness.

About Ann Arbor SPARK

Ann Arbor SPARK, a non-profit organization, is dedicated to advancing the economy of the Ann Arbor region, making it a desired place for innovation, business growth, and talented individuals to live and work. Our mission is to position the Ann Arbor region as a hub recognized for its academic, business, and community resources, as well as our collaborative culture. By encouraging and supporting business acceleration, attraction, and retention, Ann Arbor SPARK identifies and meets the needs of businesses at every stage, from startups to large organizations. We collaborate with business, academic, government, and community investor partners to foster a thriving ecosystem. For more information, please call (734) 761-9317 or visit www.AnnArborUSA.org.

About Fifth Third 

Fifth Third is a bank that’s as long on innovation as it is on history. Since 1858, the bank has helped individuals, families, businesses, and communities grow through smart financial services that improve lives. Fifth Third is recognized among Ethisphere’s World’s Most Ethical Companies® and is committed to taking care of customers, employees, communities, and shareholders. Learn more at www.53.com. Fifth Third Bank, National Association is a federally chartered institution. Member FDIC.