The Michigan Opportunity

London, Nashville and Detroit, Jack White’s innovative business is about pressing Vinyl Records!

Listen to Eddie Gillis Operations Manager at Third Man Records, a vinyl manufacturing studio in Detroit.  Third Man Records was launched by Jack White in Detroit in 2001 and in 2009 opened its Nashville location home to label offices, distribution center, photo studio and record store. In 2015 its Detroit location was opened, housing a record and novelties lounge, mastering studio, and Third Man Pressing manufacturing facility. Third Man is an innovator in the world of vinyl records and a boundary pusher in the world of recorded music. Also Eddie discusses about his family growing up in SW Detroit.

The Voices storytelling initiative aims to share perspectives of Michiganders across all 83 counties. Featuring business owners, students, and community members from around the state, these compelling stories showcase what it’s like to live and work in Michigan. From the 4 corners (if we had corners) including the 2 peninsulas, villages, townships, cities and counties, come the unique voices of our state!

Come join MEDC CEO Quentin Messer, who was the originator of the idea, and guests Nyshell Lawrence/Eaton, Brandi Cooke-Brown/Genesee, Nancie Oxley/Van Buren, Benjamin Bartz/Gogebic.  Including a bookstore, small business accelerator, vineyard and a ski resort. Special thanks to Stefanie Pohl and the Voices team!

Eastern Michigan University, founded in 1849, is moving forward for today’s challenges. Hear how President Smith is charting a bold course continuing the University’s 174-year legacy.

Dr. James M. Smith is the 23rd president of Eastern Michigan University (EMU), beginning his duties in July 2016. Since then, President Smith revised the University’s Strategic Plan, created a position of Chief Diversity Officer and introduced the University’s Sustainability Commission. EMU is a public research university in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Originally founded as the Michigan State Normal School, it was the fourth normal school (teachers' college) established in the United States and the first American normal school founded outside New England.

Who knew this global German based non-profit R&D organization working with 3 major US universities was based here in Michigan?

Listen to Thomas Schuelke, MSU professor and President of Fraunhofer USA, explain this unique global organization and how it’s making business innovation better in Michigan and around the world. Fraunhofer USA, Inc., founded by Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft, is an R&D organization that works with state and federal governments, industry leaders and universities on contract research projects. They are in the high-tech problem-solving business, utilizing world class scientific and engineering expertise to respond to technical problems. From designing and developing prototypes to developing and proofing the manufacturing processes, they work to bridge the gap between basic research and new market developments all along the technology readiness scale. Headquartered in Michigan, Fraunhofer USA has multi-state offices and works with Michigan State University, University of Maryland and Boston University.

Eight percent of the annual trade between the US and Canada comes through one of the world’s busiest international border crossing.  Colin Bird is at the heart of it in downtown Detroit.

Hear Colin Bird discuss Michigan and Ontario’s trade relationship, the busiest between any Canadian province and U.S. state, supporting thousands of jobs on either side. Last year, total trade between Michigan and Ontario was valued at $80.6 billion (CDN), with imports from Michigan totaling $31.3 billion (CDN). Combined, Michigan and Ontario are responsible for approximately 22% of North America’s automotive output through both Michigan and Ontario’s highly integrated automotive supply chain.

The Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce’s mission is to facilitate business relationships among Asian and U.S. based companies and to promote the economic advancement of Asian Pacific Americans.

Join Executive Director Duc Abrahamson as she explains the vision of her organization, her path to this position, and the compelling story on how she came to Michigan. The Asian Pacific American Chamber of Commerce (APACC,) which represents more than 30 countries, is committed to providing its members with up-to-date and pertinent information for strategic decision-making. This approach not only enhances the knowledge base of its members but also expands their network in the context of the global economy. In this role she takes on the pivotal responsibility of being the spokesperson for APACC with duties including the management and evaluation of programs and activities, providing leadership to both the board and staff, allocating necessary resources, and shaping organizational policy and programs. 

Terri Fitzpatrick, a proud member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, leads the MEDC’s Office of Tribal Business Development. Fitzpatrick is also the chief real estate and global attraction officer for the state’s site readiness and global attraction efforts, helping businesses move to and expand in Michigan. Those two career responsibilities overlap in their focus on building community by diversifying and increasing economic opportunity. Listen as Fitzpatrick explains the economic relationships that Tribes have with Michigan and how their goals align to bring prosperity to every corner of the state.

Hydrogen is definitely in Michigan’s future of Mobility: Mach2 & Nel Hydrogen!

Zachary Kolodin, Chief Infrastructure Officer and Director of the Michigan Infrastructure Office, and Reuben Sarkar, CEO at the American Center for Mobility — are two key figures in providing insights into the transformative effects of Michigan's newest clean hydrogen hub project.

The Midwest Alliance for Clean Hydrogen (MachH2), a Michigan-backed initiative, is working to secure a substantial grant of up to $1 billion from the U.S. Department of Energy. This funding is earmarked for the development of regional supply chains focusing on the production, distribution, and utilization of hydrogen. The project's overarching goal is to propel the adoption of clean hydrogen as a viable and sustainable green energy source. 

A notable aspect of this designation, is the anticipation of generating 13,600 direct jobs, comprising 12,100 in construction roles and 1,500 in permanent positions. Additionally, Nel Hydrogen's upcoming gigafactory in Plymouth Charter Township is expected to contribute significantly, creating over 500 clean energy jobs. The magnitude of this initiative extends beyond local impact, with implications for Michigan, the United States, and the global landscape in terms of mobility transition, energy dynamics, and sustainability efforts.

Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center Empowers Economic Growth: 5 Regional Offices, 7,600 Jobs Created and Retained, and 400+ Statewide Clients

Ingrid Tighe, President of the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center (MMTC), has an impressive background and deep understanding of the manufacturing industry in Michigan. Her journey from being a veteran to becoming the president of MMTC showcases her dedication and expertise in this field. Hear Ingrid discuss MMTC's approach of providing comprehensive consulting services and classes to help clients train and develop their employees and management in the market. 

Consumers Energy Empowers 6.7 Million Michigan Customers with Natural Gas and Electricity Across 68 Lower Peninsula Counties: Lauren Snyder Unpacks Their Role in Shaping Michigan’s Future.

Listen to Lauren Youngdahl Snyder as she discusses electric vehicles, renewable energy and efficiency with The Michigan Opportunity podcast!  Consumers Energy is an investor-owned utility that provides natural gas and electricity to 70% of Michiganders and serves customers in all 68 of the state's Lower Peninsula counties. Consumes Energy, a subsidiary of CMS Energy, was founded in 1886 and is currently headquartered in Jackson, Michigan.