Macomb-Oakland University Incubator client, Human Balance and Stability Systems (HBS) of Warren, is been recognized by Michigan Celebrates Small Business on its list of “SmartZone Best Businesses” for 2018. It is the 14th year of the awards program that takes place this year in Lansing on May 3.
“It has been a pleasure to be a collaborative partner with HBS Systems as they work to commercialize their products,” said John W. Eaton, client strategist at the Macomb-Oakland University Incubator. “We recognize and respect the commitment Jerry and Cathy have made to developing the StandRite- Pro™ and are excited to support their customer acquisition and R&D efforts moving forward.”
According to HBS leaders, their StandRite- Pro™ products offer “a point of contact at the shins to control postural sway, positive shin angle and proper hip hinge movement while standing.” And, the various products are adaptable, so they can be applied to jobs that require periods of standing in most sectors.
“After centuries of innovation in the workplace, we have finally addressed the one thing that hasn’t changed, employee pain and fatigue from standing,” said company co-founder Jerry Sitek. “Addressing the ergonomic needs of workers benefits both the worker and their employers.”
Companies recognized through the Michigan Celebrates Small Business program were selected by their regional Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC), Small Business Development Center (SBDC), or SmartZone. Honorees are selected based on their demonstration of successful growth and contributions to the economy of Michigan.
Winners were selected by Michigan-based judges from the banking, economic development, entrepreneurship development, and venture capital communities.
HBS Systems was developed within United Manufacturing Network, Inc., a Warren based precision grinding company.
# # #
About HBS Systems:
In 2015, Co-Founders Cathy and Jerry Sitek developed the StandRite-Pro™ to preserve their own careers while working on their feet at precision grinding machines. The founders took the novel approach of looking at the problem as if the body was a machine requiring repair and maintenance to develop a fixture for the body. Following their prototype development and subsequent internal testing, they found significant reductions in fatigue and lower back pain and applied for their Utility Patent. In 2016, the founders formed Human Balance and Stability Systems and began development of a supply chain capable of meeting high volume sales, right here in Michigan. As part of the Macomb-Oakland University Incubator, HBS Systems was awarded a BAF grant for third party validation by OU and two studies have been completed that confirm earlier findings.
About Macomb-Oakland University Incubator:
The Macomb-OU Incubator supports economic development in Southeast Michigan by accelerating high-tech businesses, cultivating academic innovation and encouraging research and development. Mac-OU Inc's mission is to provide comprehensive development and support services to startup and emerging businesses, create and support an entrepreneurial climate, commercialize new technologies, attract investment, and create new jobs in Southeast Michigan. Mac-OU Inc aims to be the regional hub for accelerating economic growth in the targeted industries of defense, homeland security, advanced manufacturing and technology.