Genemarkers is one of at least a dozen companies in the state that rapidly switched to pandemic testing in 2020. After a 10-fold revenue gain, the Kalamazoo company is using what it learned in the pandemic to fuel more growth.
Business Watch
Covering the intersection of business and policy, and informing Michigan employers and workers on the long road back from coronavirus. Our Michigan Economic Dashboard shows key metrics that show how the state is performing.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Michigan unemployment 2021 tax form coming, even as benefit waivers linger
The state’s unemployment agency says it’s on target for sending IRS tax forms to workers by the end of February. But some workers face the prospect of having to declare benefits as reportable income even though they may later have to return the money.
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Michigan’s largest marijuana farm coming to tiny village, ready or not
So many cities have opted out of pot that small towns are key to growth of the industry. That’s caused some heartburn in Lawrence in Van Buren County, but the revenue and jobs are tough to pass up.
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Ambassador Bridge reopens after Canadian border crossing protests
The international link between Detroit and Windsor is the busiest trade route between the U.S. and Canada. The protests halted auto production as essential supplies — from auto parts to food — languished, prompting concerns by Michigan officials.
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Michigan officials call for trucker protest to end 'immediately and safely'
Auto production slowed this week as the so-called ‘Freedom Caravan’ continued its blockade of the Ambassador and Blue Water bridge crossings to Canada over COVID-19 vaccine mandates.
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Truckers protesting vaccine mandate block two Michigan bridges to Canada
Traffic slowdowns started Monday at the Ambassador Bridge in Detroit, then the ‘Freedom Convoy’ protests expanded to the Blue Water Bridge in Port Huron. Now Michigan officials worry about further supply chain tightening and potential economic impact.
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Feds relax rules for workers ordered to repay Michigan unemployment benefits
Jobless workers received notices they have to repay benefits, sometimes $20,000 or more. But many applied in good faith, and now won’t face restitution due to federal waivers.
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Cargo delays in Michigan renew calls for new Great Lakes icebreaking ships
A shortage of U.S. Coast Guard icebreakers left sailors stranded and caused several cargo delays affecting Great Lakes ports. Federal officials are looking for a solution by March.
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Lordstown, Ohio gives Michigan hint of how EV battery plant changes economy
Michigan cheered news in January that it will get a $2.5 billion battery plant in Lansing to supply electric vehicles made by General Motors. A similar plant nearly ready to open in Lordstown gives a glimpse into what that could mean.
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Detroit church hopes to boost worker-owned businesses in Latino community
Cooperatives aren’t common, but they are a way to increase business ownership. In southwest Detroit, six of them are growing and advocates hope dozens follow them.