Economic Growth Institute Winter 2026 Newsletter
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Mackinac Bridge in winter with ice in foreground.  Text: Winter 2026 Newsletter.
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Supporting local community and business leaders



EGI is helping Michigan communities and industries lead in the future of mobility, advanced manufacturing, and workforce development.


For decades, the Economic Growth Institute has delivered real economic value for Michigan, partnering with industry, communities, and funders to advance manufacturing leadership, strengthen the workforce, and drive results across the state. Our collaborative approach and strong track record in stewarding  programs helps us deliver impact and measurable outcomes that support American innovation, resilience, and prosperity.

What’s happening at the Economic Growth Institute


EGI Luncheon

Our recent EGI luncheon convened campus partners for conversation, connection, and collaboration.


Collaborative partnerships between EGI and community leaders

Downriver small businesses rev up with help from U-M’s Economic Growth Institute


MiTalks Webinar Series
MiTalks series delivers insights and resources on the electric vehicle transition.


Michigan Defense Resiliency Consortium (MDRC)
Assessments, technical support, and funding for projects in battery manufacturing and energy storage.


MDRC Success Story
See how Sigma leveraged MDRC support to strengthen capabilities and unlock new growth opportunities.


Supply Chain Transformation Center (STC)
Guidance & resources to seize new opportunities in the evolving mobility economy.

Allovance Summit 2026

Join organizational leaders and decision experts for a free, in-person event on structured decision-making, strategy alignment, and practical tools for execution.


Free Cybersecurity Workshop

Hands-on training in Chicago on February 11 or 12—limited seats available.


Apply for the Diversification Playbook
Partner with EGI to receive expert guidance on diversification strategies and become eligible for grants up to $300,000.


EGI Team Stories
Meet EGI team member Kim Reid and student Madison Boyd.

Last November, the EGI Luncheon brought together partners and faculty from across the University of Michigan to explore how EGI’s research, workforce development, and community collaboration drive inclusive economic growth throughout the state.

Image of MiTalks YouTube Playlist

Are you a Michigan small to medium size company looking to grow and innovate? The Michigan Defense Resiliency Consortium (MDRC) offers technical assistance, funding, and assessments to help you enter the Department of Defense’s energy storage and battery supply chain.


MDRC Provides

  • Deep Dive Company Assessment

  • Company Valuation

  • Development of Opportunity Plan

  • Up to $75k in cost-share funds for qualified technical projects


Eligibility Requirements

  • Located in Michigan

  • Fewer than 500 Employees

  • Financial Stability

  • Potential in defense energy storage and battery supply chain


To learn more about the MDRC program, please reach out to Sara Reynolds at [email protected].



MDRC Success Story: Sigma Powertrain


Sigma Powertrain, a Michigan-based manufacturer, partnered with MDRC to assess new opportunities in energy storage and electrification. Through technical assistance and cost-share support, Sigma identified pathways to expand capabilities, strengthen competitiveness, and align with Department of Defense energy priorities.


Read the Sigma Powertrain success story here



Allovance Summit 2026


Join us on March 12, 2026 at the University of Michigan for the Allovance Summit 2026: Reimagining Organizational Decision-Making.


Where: University of Michigan North Campus Research Complex, Ann Arbor

Cost:  Free (registration required)


This one-day, in-person summit brings together decision coaches, consultants, and organizational leaders to explore how structured decision-making can transform strategy, alignment, and execution.


Throughout the day, you’ll learn how to:

  • Create a structured decision-making system

  • Leverage technology to make better decisions

  • Align teams around shared strategic priorities

  • Translate strategy into action

  • Integrate science into the art of decision-making


FREE Cybersecurity Incident Response Workshop Offered Through MxD


When: February 11th or 12th (MxD is hosting two identical workshops so you can choose the one that works best for you.) 


Where: MxD, Chicago, IL  


The MxD Cyber Incident Response Workshop offers hands-on training designed for everyone from cybersecurity beginners to seasoned professionals and leaders. Co-hosted by MxD and Immersive Labs, this workshop blends real-world crisis simulations, role-based exercises, and pre-work labs to strengthen your ability to detect, respond to, and recover from today’s most critical cyber threats. Seats are limited, so save your spot today by registering here!



Kim Reid is a legend at EGI, with campus memories stretching back to the days of Bo Schembechler.  Since the mid-1980s, Kim has been a friendly and indispensable presence, starting her journey in the "Special Projects Division" before EGI became what it is today.  From her start as a student assistant, she’s embraced many roles, and now serves as the institute’s Senior Administrative Assistant.


Known for her reliability and encyclopedic knowledge, Kim supports every EGI program and is the go-to for staff and students alike. Whether answering “Kim, how do I…?” questions in hallways or providing calm solutions in a crowded chatroom, she keeps the organization running smoothly. For Kim, the best part of working at EGI remains the people.


Kim’s skills extend far and wide. She brings creativity to design projects and never hesitates to jump in on technical challenges, often solving IT issues before others even know there’s a problem. Her commitment has been formally recognized with the Staff Recognition Award, and colleagues praise her as “a heat-seeking submarine missile when getting a job done.”


Outside of work, Kim enjoys spending time with her grandkids and testing out fun gadgets. EGI is grateful to have Kim’s energy, resourcefulness, and sense of humor anchoring the team, and her enduring dedication continues to make a positive impact on everyone who works with her.


EGI Student Madison Boyd







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Economic Growth Institute · 506 East Liberty Street, 3rd Floor · Ann Arbor, MI 48104-7202 · USA

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

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