Part of Next Street’s “Building America’s Industrial Base” research series

June 11, 2026

Contributors: Spencer Lau, Sean Killeen, Annika Jonas-Day, Vivian Yu

Michigan is undergoing a major industrial transition, leveraging its deep manufacturing strength to compete in core automotive industries and other critical sectors, including defense, energy, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing. This case study examines how Michigan is building upon its industrial prowess to support supplier growth and strengthen regional economic competitiveness.

This report is the first part of “Building America’s Industrial Base,” a research series supported by JPMorgan Chase that explores the dynamics shaping how suppliers and their workforce participate in and scale within U.S. industrial supply chains.

Key Takeaways

  1. Industrial Strengths Create New Opportunities: Michigan’s legacy manufacturing capabilities—including engineering, tooling, precision manufacturing, and production expertise—can be leveraged beyond automotive into growing sectors such as defense, energy, semiconductors, and advanced manufacturing.
  2. Reindustrialization Requires Coordinated Support: Small and mid-sized manufacturers need more than training to compete in emerging industries. Business strategy, capital access, technical assistance, workforce development, and procurement support must work together to help suppliers adapt and grow.
  3. Public-Private Partnerships Drive Competitiveness: The most effective industrial strategies align supplier development, workforce training, financing, and market demand around shared economic goals. Michigan’s public-partnerships provide practical examples of how regions can strengthen supplier ecosystems and support long-term growth.

Download the Full Case Study

Explore the complete research, findings, and recommendations on how Michigan is navigating industrial transition and how other regions can learn from its experience.

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