DETROIT – A new report paints a stark picture for the state’s future unless significant changes are made now.  According to the report from the Growing Michigan Together Council, Michigan is at a crossroads.

The past two years have served as a stark reminder that the headwinds of change are constant. We are facing massive disruptors:

  • Post COVID-19: The pandemic upended the global economy, disrupted lives and worsened the already urgent challenges we are facing in Michigan’s K-12 and post-secondary education systems.
  • A shifting economy and future of work: The transition to autonomous and electric vehicles, the rapidly changing needs of the automotive and manufacturing industry, and labor force constraints.
  • Prosperity not widely shared: There’s a heightened imperative to combat systemic racism, including by advancing solutions to create economic equity and expanding diversity, equity and inclusion.

“Our people are the lifeblood of our businesses – the students who become our employees, the families who use our services and products, and the innovators who keep our economy competitive on the global stage,” the report executive summary contends. “That is why Business Leaders for Michigan is using our data-driven approach to reassess and reevaluate the steps Michigan must take to be more competitive.”

You can read the full report at Business Leaders For Michigan. 

Three business leaders said, in response to the report, that it is an urgent call to action to unite behind a common vision for our state’s growth that will improve the lives of current residents as well as those who will return home or choose to live in this great state.

The quotes are attributed to Jeff Donofrio, president and CEO of Business Leaders for Michigan, Sandy K. Baruah, president and CEO of the Detroit Regional Chamber, and Brian Calley, president and CEO of the Small Business Association of Michigan.

“We, as business leaders, have long advocated  for cohesive, holistic solutions to address Michigan’s population crisis that can withstand disruptions, transcend politics, and initiate lasting improvement.  Getting population trends back on track is critical to ensuring our state’s economic prosperity, political influence, and competitiveness. The risk is greatest if we do nothing.

“We are encouraged by the report’s focus on three interwoven and visionary strategies around education, the economy, and our communities. These are a set of guiding principles that, when developed and implemented, have potential to impact and change Michigan for the better.

“This is a unique opportunity to chart the course of our collective future, one that values and supports all Michiganders. The status quo won’t get us where we need to be. We must approach these challenges differently and come together to create the Michigan we want for today, tomorrow, and generations to come.”