Business group offers blueprint to boost Michigan’s economic growth and opportunity

As state leaders continue to debate how best to improve Michigan’s economic landscape, a group of the state’s leading employers is weighing in with its own plan centered on education, talent development and economic development.

“As the pace of change accelerates, we need to build a more adaptive and competitive state – standing still now only widens the gap,” Jeff Donofrio, president and CEO of Business Leaders For Michigan, said in a news release. “[Our plan] focuses on changing what’s within our control – three areas that, when working well, have the greatest power to change our state’s trajectory.”

Specifically, the plan calls for leaders to transform education, make Michigan the easiest place to build and grow and to modernize its approach to economic development to activate the state’s economic potential.

Donofrio argued that Michigan’s challenge in retaining talent and building its economy is not based on ideas or effort, but consistency and follow-through. 

“When priorities shift, progress stalls,” Donofrio said. “We need a long-term strategy that endures beyond election cycles. Other states have shown what’s possible when that happens.”

In improving education, the group’s plan calls for the state to ensure every child can read by third grade, tackle chronic absenteeism, set a high standard for a high school diploma, and seamlessly connect students to apprenticeships, college and careers.

It also recommends removing barriers to economic growth by supporting a culture of customer service, streamlining regulations and supporting communities ready to innovate.

In addressing the state’s approach to economic development, Business Leaders for Michigan called for the state to empower its regions and adopt a consistent approach for attracting and retaining talent.

Moving forward, the group said the state must have a plan that goes beyond one governor, political party or interest group, and it must be championed by the governor, built by the Legislature and sustained beyond political terms.

“Michigan’s future will continue to be defined by our ability to come together around a common vision for growth,” said Gary Torgow, the group’s chair. “If we continue to stay focused and work together, Michigan can endeavor to lead the nation in creating opportunity and prosperity for all.”