Innovating Region: Southeast Michigan

Nine counties: Wayne, Oakland, Macomb, Lapeer, Lenawee, Livingston, Monroe, St. Clair, Washtenaw

Target Industries: Advanced Manufacturing, Life Sciences, Homeland Security and Alternative Energies

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Region Information

Southeastern Michigan, which traditionally relied on the manufacturing industry as a main source of employment, seeks to supply its job base with the skills and competencies needed to compete in the 21st century economy. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation and the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth have both identified opportunities for Michigan's future industrial base in four high growth clusters: advanced manufacturing, life sciences, homeland security and alternative energies.

Recently, the Southeastern Michigan region took a critical step toward regional collaboration through the creation of the One D alliance. The partnership adds support from the Detroit Regional Chamber, Detroit Renaissance and other organizations important to the region. The alliance developed six strategies in their report "Road to Renaissance." Among the strategies, the alliance plans to help secure a strong future talent base.

As a 2nd Generation WIRED region, Southeastern Michigan will implement the following strategies:

1. Increase teacher training/student education in math and science programs proven to foster successful completion of related post-secondary programs, and create alignment between closely related learning programs.
   
   
2. Support K-20 education programming relating to entrepreneurship; infuse best-in-class, hands-on, peer-based learning programs that catalyze interest and real world understanding.
   
   
3. Create top-of-the-line training/consultation services for active entrepreneurs, including supportive peer networks.
   
   
4. Establish a gap fund for early-stage entrepreneurs.
   
   
5. Develop collaborative technology-related attraction and expansion programs that benefit multiple companies.