The University of Michigan’s Economic Growth Institute is hosting its third annual forum, bringing together businesses, community leaders, and economic development colleagues to explore the latest insights and resources that support workforce development, strategic planning, and business growth—turning insight into impact. Event Highlights: Date: Thursday, October 22, 2026 Location: University of Michigan North Campus Research Complex (NCRC) 2800 Plymouth Rd Building 18 Ann Arbor, MI 48109 Sponsorships Sponsorship opportunities are available for Elevate Forum 2026. If you would like [read more]

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]

The University of Michigan Economic Growth Institute and MxD today announce the public release of the Electric Vehicle Hiring Guide, an innovative guide to help U.S. manufacturers build the workforce needed to support the electric vehicle (EV) transition. The comprehensive guide outlines 170 roles that are critical to the future of EV manufacturing. Additionally, five key roles were selected for deeper profiling, detailing the skill sets, career paths, and education and training needed to prepare American workers for these [read more]

EGI recently celebrated the success of its second Elevate Forum at the University of Michigan’s North Campus Research Complex, where over 150 industry experts, community leaders, and economic development organizations gathered to exchange insights and forge connections. This vibrant event focused on innovative strategies to drive business growth and community resilience across Michigan April 21, 2025

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]