The Village of Romeo, Michigan, partnered with the University of Michigan Economic Growth Institute (EGI) for research services, strategic planning, and project implementation support in response to recent economic challenges. With manufacturing as the community’s largest industry by employment and GDP, the closure of a Ford engine plant left Romeo particularly vulnerable to economic disruption.  EGI conducted a comprehensive, consensus-driven community strategic planning engagement with local leaders and stakeholders to develop strategic solutions for economic stability. This facilitation aimed [read more]

The Economic Growth Institute held its second Elevate Forum at the University of Michigan’s North Campus Research Complex.  The daylong event brought together a mix of industry experts, community leaders, and economic development organizations for a day filled with insightful discussions with dedicated networking opportunities. This year’s event, built upon the success of the first Elevate Forum at UM’s Detroit Center, offered a rich agenda discussing issues at the intersection of business growth and community development. Bringing together over [read more]

Elevate Forum 2025 Advancing Manufacturing, Communities, and Economic Development Date Thursday, March 6, 2025 8 AM - 4:30 PM Location University of Michigan North Campus Research Complex (NCRC) 2800 Plymouth Rd Building 18 Ann Arbor, MI 48109 Event Registration Limited space! Register for your free ticket below: EGI is hosting its second annual forum for businesses, community leaders, and economic development colleagues.  At this event we will [read more]

University of Michigan Economic Growth Institute and Michigan State University Industrial Training and Assessment Center Awarded Department of Energy Program to Develop EV Transition Playbook The University of Michigan Economic Growth Institute (EGI) and Michigan State University Industrial Training and Assessment Center (MSU-ITAC) have been awarded $500,000 by the Department of Energy (DOE) to launch the Michigan Automotive Supply Chain Technical Assistance Program. This two-year initiative will help small and medium-sized manufacturers (SMMs) in Michigan's automotive sector transition [read more]

The U.S. youth camp industry contributes $70 billion to the national economy, accounting for the total value of the camp industry’s production and its ripple effects—which include business-to-business purchases and labor income, according to a study from the University of Michigan. This figure represents the industry’s overall economic impact across the nation while also supporting more than 986,428 workers. The industry plays a vital role in fostering youth development and workforce skills throughout the country. “This project is the [read more]

The University of Michigan's Economic Growth Institute hosted its inaugural Elevate Forum for businesses, community leaders, and economic development colleagues at the University's Detroit Center.  With over 100 attendees joining both in person and online, the forum offered a full day of presentations and networking. The day commenced with opening remarks from EGI’s Executive Director, Steve Wilson.  Morning sessions focused on issues of special interest to small business owners.  Guest presenters included Ken Sanginario, who discussed ownership transition, enhancing [read more]