“Michigan is to fresh water as Saudi Arabia is to oil,” said Dana Lowell. “The combined Great Lakes contain the world’s largest supply of fresh water–our most valuable resource. Michigan’s 3,000 miles of shoreline shape not only our state’s geography but also its economy, society and environment. We’ve got a chance to build a Blue Economy, and Michigan should lean into that. ”

That mantra is the foundation of Lilypad, where Dana serves as CEO. The firm is dedicated to building a “better experience on the water” by designing and manufacturing easy-to-maneuver solar-powered boats that cruise at a leisurely pace. “Our boats put social first, prioritizing conversation and quality time. They’re like a cafe table on the water, and reflect a macro shift to slower living,” explained Dana. “They also protect our waters, with no threat of gasoline or oil spills, and their aluminum frames are recyclable.”

With a solid concept in place, the next step was to commercialize it. That’s when Dana and his team reached out to the Michigan SBDC. Technology Consultant Robert Honeyman worked closely with the team to identify a business model based on time rental rather than private asset ownership, making time on the water more accessible. Other Michigan SBDC Team Team members assisted with marketing, market research, intellectual property protection, and pitch competition coaching that resulted in a win from business incubator Centrepolis Accelerator. 

Today Lilypad boats can be rented in marinas including South Haven, Saugatuck, Elk Rapids and Traverse City. With more marinas coming on board, the vision remains grand: “do something more than ‘no harm,’ rather, once again provide abundant fisheries, drinkable water, abundant clean-tech jobs, and world-class tourism within a collaborative and innovative growing Blue Economy.”