Michigan Economic Development Corporation

Charles Elwood of SolisMatica LLC believes AI can help create a more inclusive society, and that Michigan is the place to develop it. His work helps students better manage their time and empowers professionals to innovate in their field. Originally drawn to The Great Lakes State for opportunities in the automotive industry, he’s come to appreciate the natural beauty as well as the state’s commitment to integrating AI into various sectors. https://spklr.io/6049alcl

The Village Hide-A-Way isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a family legacy. Rachel Plankenhorn’s grandfather purchased the establishment in 1980, her dad took it over in 1999, and now she’s making it her mission to keep it in the family. After spending years out west working in various hospitality and tourism roles, Rachel returned to Michigan, explaining it was always the place she wanted to lay down her roots. Now, as Vicksburg has seen investments in its cultural scene and its downtown area, the Village Hide-A-Way is in the center of the action, and Rachel feels fortunate to be at the helm during this exciting time. https://spklr.io/6046xb0M

Through the support of a MEDC Build MI Community Grant, Kelly Sugg and Alex Bernetich give new life to a blighted, condemned property in Old Village Plymouth transforming the property into a 2,000-sq.-ft. mixed-use building. https://lnkd.in/gKMKg5NT

From Half & Half to the McDonald's Triple Thick Shake and the iconic Dairy Queen Blizzard, popular Midwest staples are preserving Detroit's rich food heritage while embracing the future of agribusiness. Dean Angott, Chairman and President of C.F. Burger Creamery and Twin Pines Farm Dairy, explains how on #TheMichiganOpportunity podcast. https://spklr.io/6045xj15

Michigan’s state government collaborates closely with our federally acknowledged Indian tribes on a government-to-government basis, working together on issues like economic development, water quality, and treaty rights. Learn more about Michigan’s tribal government: https://spklr.io/6042xjkp #AmericanIndianHeritageMonth

Applications for the 17th Annual Global Automotive & Mobility Innovation Challenge (GAMIC) are now open! GAMIC invites early-stage automotive and mobility companies to compete for access to rapid commercialization assistance. Applications close on Dec. 1, 2024.

Aiye Akhigbe started by making homemade baby food for her son. As he got older, the mixes got more sophisticated, and eventually she realized she could evolve her recipes into delicious jams with local ingredients. Eight years later, she is making 175 flavors and selling them out of her own store, Sticky Spoons Jam. As a Navy veteran, Nigerian-born entrepreneur, Aiye fell in love while stationed in Japan, and it turned out her partner was from the small town of Niles, Michigan. When the couple was looking for a place to settle and start a family, they were called to the Great Lakes State. Aiye now loves the agriculture economy that surrounds her, with 95 percent of their fruits coming from small farms within 30 miles of their location. “I tell everyone, we are the agricultural hub of the country,” she says. “Southwest Michigan grows almost everything I need.”

Michigan has always been a hotbed for new ideas, and we’re keeping that legacy alive with our interactive online tool that directs entrepreneurs to the opportunities, services, and programs that will help their businesses grow.

“Go green” in more ways than one. Hear MSU Research Foundation CEO David Washburn share how the foundation is driving Michigan’s economic future, from tech commercialization to investing over $10M in annual research funding. ?? https://spklr.io/6046xKhq

Traditionally named Gnoozhekaaning, the Bay Mills Indian Community, led by President Whitney Gravelle, is making a big impact on the Upper Peninsula. With more than 700 employees, the tribe’s main goal is to promote the health and welfare of its tribal citizens by providing services and care. “I love my tribe and I love my community,” Gravelle explains. “I love being a part of Bay Mills. It goes even a step further to be like I love being Native. I love being indigenous.” https://spklr.io/6040xEXw