Michigan’s overreliance on manufacturing has the state falling in prosperity rankings. A new report argues that unless we get serious about creating high-wage, college-degree jobs, our economic fortunes will continue to crater.
Paula Gardner
Paula directs the business reporting on Bridge, writing much of it and setting the strategy for how statewide business coverage fits into Bridge’s nonpartisan policy-driven editorial mix. Paula came to Bridge in 2020 after several years at MLive.com, where she covered the state on both business and environmental teams. Prior to that, she was editor of the Ann Arbor News and news director of online startup AnnArbor,com, and also focused on business news as an editor and reporter at Michigan Business Review. Born and raised in metro Detroit, Paula moved to Ann Arbor to attend the University of Michigan, and has lived in the city for 20 years with her husband, who grew up in their neighborhood. Paula also regularly visits East Lansing and Grand Rapids to visit her college-aged children. She can be reached at pgardner@bridgemi.com
Posted inBusiness Watch
Auto experts: Competition, politics, fading subsidies could affect Michigan EV sales
As it shifts to electric vehicles, the state’s auto industry faces threats from global competition, shifting political winds and changing subsidies, experts said Wednesday.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Delis, milkshakes and liquor: How gas stations aim to survive in Michigan
Gas stations are expanding in Michigan even as their demise is predicted in the transition to EVs. Larger chains are moving in with made-to-order food, more vape flavors and coffee bars, betting that added convenience will offset dwindling fuel sales.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Michigan football poised to make millions for university from championship game
The rich will get richer because of what academics call the Flutie Effect, as well as millions more from marketing and exposure.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Calley: Michigan small businesses want to slow change, ease up on new rules
The state’s growth will come from elevating education and innovation to benefit today’s residents, Brian Calley, CEO of the Small Business Association, told Bridge Michigan in a Q and A.
Posted inBusiness Watch
A Sears comes down, apartments go up at Michigan mall. Is this the future?
Ann Arbor’s growth makes its 50-year-old Briarwood Mall attractive for additions: 370 apartments and two new stores will replace a closed Sears. Is this the solution for dying malls? Depends on the mall.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Michigan keeps grip on cereal-making as Kellogg reverses layoff plan
Kellogg was ready to move two-thirds of its Michigan cereal production to Canada. But the new corporate version of the iconic brand decided to stay here, thanks in part to $24 million in state incentives.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Michigan utilities explore longer-term funding to address extreme weather
DTE Energy and Consumers Energy say their systems are more reliable after severe outages this year. But with extreme weather increasing from climate change, they’re looking at additional funding options such as customer surcharges or bonds.
Posted inBusiness Watch
New scrutiny challenges Michigan's investment in Gotion EV battery plant
While many of Michigan’s largest EV battery projects are slowing, Gotion Inc.’s plans are on track near Big Rapids, but scrutiny from a new township board creates new challenges for the deal.
Posted inTalent & Education
Michigan’s draft population plan: Better schools, high-tech jobs, new taxes
Draft recommendations from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s population commission includes a laundry list of changes. And they’ll cost money.