About | Adrian-Tecumseh SmartZone | Michigan Economic Development

What is a SmartZone?

A SmartZone Local Development Finance Authority (LDFA) is an economic development tool that allows property tax dollars to be captured and reinvested to provide support to high-technology entrepreneurs, businesses and researchers in our local community. SmartZones provide distinct geographical locations where technology-based firms, entrepreneurs and researchers locate in close proximity to all of the community assets that assist in their endeavors. These clusters promote resource collaboration between universites, industries, organizations, government entities, and other community institutions allowing for technology based businesses to grow and create new jobs.

The Adrian – Tecumseh SmartZone has a goal to attract new businesses and jobs as well as help existing manufacturing and production businesses in the area with potential for growth. These types of industries may include, but are not limited to...

Nonmetallic Mineral Product Manufacturing
Chemical Manufacturing
Animal Production
Aquaculture
Plastics and Rubber Manufacturing
Wood Product Manufacturing

Chemical manufacturing employment in Lenawee County grew 32% between 2019 and 2024, even as seven of the county's ten largest legacy industry clusters declined over the same period. This shift reflects a broader restructuring of the local economy toward sectors with stronger long-term growth trajectories. The SmartZone's focus on manufacturing, chemical production, and related industries is grounded in that momentum — building on what is already working rather than waiting for legacy clusters to recover.