The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) launched an auto supplier program designed to help small manufacturers modernize operations and diversify capabilities. The initiative aims to help small businesses, particularly those with less than 10 employees, diversify into emerging industries, including defense, aerospace, electric vehicles and clean energy.
Eligible companies accepted into the Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program (MAST-P) can reportedly access no-cost advisory services, business assessments, technical consulting, financial literacy support and educational programming delivered through the program’s statewide partner network.
The three-year program, originally announced in September 2024, is funded through the federal State Small Business Credit Initiative Investing in America Small Business Opportunity Program (SSBCI SBOP) and administered by the MEDC on behalf of the Michigan Strategic Fund. The initiative provides more than $9 million in funding to support over 500 suppliers across Michigan’s automotive ecosystem.
Industry outreach for the program will be led by Automation Alley and the Michigan Manufacturers Association (MMA). Automation Alley advances innovation and Industry 4.0 adoption among manufacturers, while MMA serves as the statewide advocate and resource for Michigan’s manufacturing community.
Eligible businesses must be located within targeted regions including Oakland, Wayne, Macomb, St. Clair, Lapeer and Kent counties. Companies interested in accessing the benefits can find more information and a comprehensive program platform that assesses beneficial program services at automationalley.com.
