New report identifies three capacities that strengthen cross-sector workforce coalitions The University of Michigan Economic Growth Institute (EGI) research offers practical guidance for building resilient partnerships, improving feedback loops, and adapting to changing workforce needs. The new report, Collaborative Capacity in Cross-Sector Workforce Coalitions, examines how regional workforce partnerships can work more effectively across organizations, respond to uncertainty, and sustain their impact. Authored by Dr. Emily J. Aiken, Senior Project Manager for Research at EGI, the report draws lessons from the U.S. Economic [read more]

Elevate Forum 2026 Advancing Manufacturing. Strengthening Communities. NEW Date Thursday, November 5, 2026 8 AM - 2 PM Location University of Michigan North Campus Research Complex (NCRC) 2800 Plymouth Rd Building 18 Ann Arbor, MI 48109 Limited space! Register for your free ticket below: Track A, Business Leaders: AI in Action — Cut through the hype with a clear 4-stage adoption roadmap, real manufacturer case studies (quoting, finance, sales), an [read more]

EGI's Director of Community Development, Carmen Wells Quigg, was recently featured on The Michigan Opportunity Podcast as part of its coverage from Media Row at the Mackinac Policy Conference. The podcast brought together leaders and experts to discuss Michigan’s future across economic development, mobility, manufacturing, leadership, innovation, defense, technology, talent, and global competitiveness.  Carmen discusses EGI's work and shares her perspective as part of this important statewide conversation. Click the image below to listen to the interview. [read more]

Discover the latest highlights from the Economic Growth Institute’s spring newsletter, featuring updates on community partnership initiatives, funding opportunities, and upcoming events. Dive in to explore success stories, new resources for Michigan businesses, and meet the outstanding EGI team members driving impact across the state. May 5, 2026

Discover the latest highlights from the Economic Growth Institute’s Winter 2026 Newsletter, featuring updates on community partnership initiatives, funding opportunities, and upcoming events. Dive in to explore success stories, new resources for Michigan businesses, and meet the outstanding EGI team members driving impact across the state. February 9, 2026

Jessica Bazner, owner of Kevin James Menswear, was able to receive help building an ecommerce website to draw business from a wider area after two DTE coal powered plants closed in the area. Image credit: Jeremy Marble, University of Michigan News Michigan News featured a story about EGI's collaborative work with the Downriver Community Conference, which included connecting with Jessica Bazner, owner of Kevin James Menswear. We’re proud to see how collaborative partnerships between the Economic Growth Institute [read more]