The Michigan Opportunity

From Research to Real World Impact: Michigan Technological University is Turning Ideas into Companies

We sit down with Dr. Andrew Barnard, Vice President for Research at Michigan Technological University, to explore how Michigan Tech is transforming university research into economic opportunity by building stronger connections between researchers, entrepreneurs, investors, government, and industry. Michigan Tech is helping grow research from the laboratory into the marketplace through customer discovery, commercialization, venture capital, industry partnerships and more. 

Civil Discourse, Trust, and Resilience: The Bedrock of Michigan’s Civic and Economic Infrastructure

We are joined by Tonya Schuitmaker and Rebekah Warren of Michiganders for Civic Resilience, an organization dedicated to bridging divides and restoring civil discourse. Their conversation reveals why civic resilience is more than a discourse issue, it is an economic development issue. 

Tonya and Rebekah talk about the connection between strong communities and strong economies, and how where businesses invest – communities can prosper. From attracting talent and investment to building infrastructure, advancing innovation, and solving Michigan's biggest challenges, our ability to collaborate may be one of our greatest competitive advantages. 

The ABCs of Data Centers: What They Are, Why They Matter, and How Michigan Communities Can Prepare

We talk with Dr. Jean Hardy, Associate Professor in Michigan State University's Department of Media & Information, Associate Director of the Quello Center at Michigan State University, and a leading researcher on the relationship between technology, economic development, and rural communities.

Jean also discusses the Michigan Statewide Data Center Planning & Development Working Group, and how they bring public and private stakeholders together to help Michigan communities better understand and prepare for data-center development.

Reliable energy and strong international partnerships are essential to economic growth, national competitiveness, and the future of advanced manufacturing. 

Paul Marin, Director of Public Affairs at the U.S. Trade and Development Agency (USTDA), discusses the agency's mission of connecting U.S. companies with infrastructure and development opportunities around the world. He explains how USTDA helps create American jobs by funding project planning, technical assistance, and partnerships that open new international markets for U.S. businesses while advancing high-quality, sustainable infrastructure in emerging economies.

We also talk with Steven Hall, Director of Development and Engineering at NOVI Energy, one of Michigan's leading energy development firms. Steve shares how Novi Energy is helping meet the nation's growing demand for reliable, affordable, and sustainable power through innovative energy projects, strategic partnerships, and investments in next-generation energy infrastructure.

Growing Michigan's Future: How Agriculture Fuels Jobs, Innovation, and Economic Growth

On this episode, we welcome Chuck Lippstreu, President of the Michigan Agri-Business Association, for an insightful conversation about one of Michigan's most important and often overlooked economic engine – agriculture. Chuck discusses the critical role Michigan's farmers, agribusinesses, food processors, and agricultural suppliers play in driving the state's economy. We also explore how innovation, sustainability, advanced technology, workforce development, and global exports are helping to position Michigan as a continuous agriculture success. 

Driving America's Next Manufacturing Revolution: How United States Council for Automotive Research (USCAR) is Shaping the Future of the U.S. Auto Industry

Our guest is Steve Przesmitzki, President of USCAR, the collaborative research organization founded by Ford Motor Company, General Motors, and Stellantis. For more than three decades, USCAR has brought together automakers, suppliers and government partners to conduct pre-competitive research that advances manufacturing, electrification, propulsion systems, sustainability, and more that will define the next generation of transportation.

Steve brings a remarkable career spanning industry, government, and research. A Professional Engineer with M.S. and Ph.D. degrees from MIT, Steve has devoted his career to advancing transportation technology, energy innovation, and American industrial competitiveness.

From Lab to Launch: How the University of Michigan is Powering the Next Generation of Innovation

On this episode we're joined by Kelly Sexton, Associate Vice President for Research and Innovation Partnerships and Economic Impact at the University of Michigan (U of M). Kelly leads one of the nation's premier university innovation ecosystems, transforming cutting-edge research into successful startup companies, breakthrough technologies, and real-world solutions that drive economic growth. 

Kelly shares her unique journey from scientist to nationally recognized innovation leader. She breaks down programs such as the Technology Transfer Talent Network (T3N) and  the new Michigan Innovation Alliance—a statewide collaboration among Michigan's leading research universities working together to increase commercialization, entrepreneurship, talent development, and investment across the state.

Sports are more than competition; they are a catalyst for economic development, community pride, and national visibility.

The Detroit Sports Commission works year-round to attract elite amateur and professional sporting events that generate tourism, create jobs, showcase world-class venues, and strengthen Southeast Michigan's economy. On this episode we're joined by Dave Beachnau, Chief Executive Officer of the Detroit Local Organizing Committee for the 2027 NCAA® Men's Final Four®. 

Dave talks about leading the local planning, coordination, and execution for the 2027 NCAA Men's Final Four at Ford Field, working closely with the NCAA, civic leaders, and more. As a previous Executive Director of the Detroit Sports Commission, he discusses how metro Detroit continues to shine as one of America's premier destinations for major sporting events.

How 3 Michigan small businesses are innovating and making an impact

In this episode – with the help of Chris Rishko, Managing Director of Small Business and Talent at MEDC, we spotlight three Michigan small businesses recognized at the 2026 Michigan Celebrates Small Business. These Michigan small businesses are a reflection of the strength, innovation, and resilience in the state’s small business ecosystem: 

• Equitable Accounting Solutions, led by Mary Barton, offers personalized accounting and advisory services to empower entrepreneurs.
• Chris Casteel with Anew Life Prosthetics and Orthotics, is a dedicated practitioner, advocate, and leader in the limb loss community.
• iCOR Solutions, led by Zack Pittman, provides high impact business insurance consulting and strategic risk solutions. 

Michigan Celebrates Small Business (MCSB) continues to champion Michigan’s entrepreneurial spirit by honoring small business leaders and the partners who support them including: the Michigan Small Business Development Center, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Small Business Association of Michigan, the Small Business Advocate and the Edward Lowe Foundation.

Rolling Growth Forward: How Motiv Bowling Is Investing in Muskegon and Michigan

In this episode, Scott Wilbur of Motiv Bowling discusses how his family came together to grow their business presence while supporting Michigan manufacturing, local jobs, and community engagement. Scott also shares insights into the culture behind Motiv Bowling, the company’s commitment to quality and performance, and the importance of giving back to the Muskegon region that has supported its success. From entrepreneurship to manufacturing, we talk about how West Michigan remains an important place to build, invest, and grow a business.