Ann Arbor, Michigan, February 5, 2026

Utilidata, a leader in embedded AI for power infrastructure, has moved its headquarters to Ann Arbor, Michigan, and opened a new innovation lab. This 15,000-square-foot facility aims to enhance the development and testing of AI-driven energy management solutions for critical systems such as the electric grid and data centers. Supported by a $250,000 grant, the expansion is expected to create 25 new jobs and leverage Ann Arbor’s engineering talent and research ecosystem.

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Utilidata, a company specializing in embedded AI for power infrastructure and backed by NVIDIA, has relocated its headquarters and opened a new innovation lab in Ann Arbor, Michigan. This expansion aims to enhance the development and testing of its AI-driven energy management solutions, particularly for critical systems like the electric grid and data centers.

New Headquarters and Innovation Lab

The 15,000-square-foot facility will serve as Utilidata’s primary hub for testing, product development, and collaboration with partners across the technology, AI, and energy sectors. The lab includes dedicated areas for distributed energy resources (DER) and data center testing, enabling rapid prototyping and scaling of its autonomous power management platform, Karman. The data center lab is equipped with NVIDIA B200 servers running AI workloads with Karman, allowing the team to measure system behavior under realistic compute conditions. The DER lab replicates modern electrified homes and businesses, with electric meters connected to battery storage systems, electric vehicles, and rooftop solar. In this lab, the team will run demonstrations to test how Karman interacts with distributed energy devices, further refining how the platform can support grid reliability and enable utilities to better manage demands from increasing electrification.

Support and Job Creation

The expansion is supported by a $250,000 grant through the Michigan Business Development Program (MBDP), administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). The lab currently employs 18 staff members on-site, accounting for 25% of Utilidata’s workforce, and is expected to create 25 new full-time jobs, strengthening partnerships with key local collaborators.

Strategic Importance of Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor’s deep engineering talent pool and research ecosystem were key factors in Utilidata’s decision to establish its headquarters and innovation lab in the city. The region’s reputation for technological advancement and innovation aligns with Utilidata’s mission to advance AI solutions for energy management.

About Utilidata

Utilidata is a pioneer in embedded AI for power infrastructure, developing solutions that enable real-time power management and grid optimization. Its flagship platform, Karman, utilizes NVIDIA’s accelerated computing to bring 100 times the processing power of other meter-based solutions to the edge of the grid, making it possible to capture high-resolution data and identify patterns in large volumes of data.

About NVIDIA

NVIDIA is a global leader in AI computing, providing the hardware and software infrastructure that powers AI applications across various industries, including energy, healthcare, and automotive sectors.

About the Michigan Business Development Program (MBDP)

The Michigan Business Development Program is a performance-based grant program administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to encourage business investment and job creation in Michigan.

About the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is a public-private partnership that serves as the state’s marketing arm and lead agency for business, talent, and tourism attraction.

About Ann Arbor SPARK

Ann Arbor SPARK is a non-profit organization dedicated to accelerating the economic development of the Ann Arbor region by supporting businesses, fostering innovation, and attracting talent.

About Karman

Karman is Utilidata’s distributed AI platform designed to provide real-time power visibility, predictability, and control at the edge of the electric grid. Built on a custom NVIDIA module, Karman delivers ultra-fast power management capabilities, enabling utilities and data centers to optimize electricity usage and manage grid capacity more efficiently.

About Distributed Energy Resources (DER)

Distributed Energy Resources are small-scale units of local generation connected to the grid at distribution voltage levels. These resources include solar panels, wind turbines, battery storage systems, and electric vehicles, which can be managed to enhance grid reliability and support the integration of renewable energy sources.

About Data Centers

Data centers are facilities used to house computer systems and associated components, such as telecommunications and storage systems. They are critical for processing, storing, and managing large volumes of data for businesses and organizations worldwide.

Conclusion

This expansion not only highlights the innovative advancements in energy technology but also underscores the growing role of partnerships between business and local economic development initiatives. Utilidata’s relocation to Ann Arbor stands as a testament to the strength of Michigan’s workforce and entrepreneurial spirit. As local businesses continue to rise and innovate, the community and economy are sure to benefit. Readers are encouraged to support local entrepreneurs and engage actively in Detroit MI’s booming economic landscape.

FAQ

• What is Utilidata? Utilidata is a pioneer in embedded AI for power infrastructure, developing solutions that enable real-time power management and grid optimization.
• Where is Utilidata’s new headquarters located? Utilidata’s new headquarters and innovation lab are located in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
• How many jobs is Utilidata expected to create? Utilidata is expected to create 25 new full-time jobs with this expansion.
• What is the purpose of the new innovation lab? The lab aims to enhance the development and testing of Utilidata’s AI-driven energy management solutions.
• What is Karman? Karman is Utilidata’s distributed AI platform designed to provide real-time power visibility, predictability, and control at the edge of the electric grid.

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