Michigan’s problem: Small businesses are big businesses across the Great Lakes states

(CBS Detroit) – Businesses across Michigan are feeling optimistic about the future after living through a historic 100-year health pandemic that has affected every business in some way.

This is a wide-ranging conversation with Michigan Economic Development Corporation CEO Quentin Messer Jr., Michigan Business Network CEO Chris Holman, and Rochester Hills Mayor Brian Barnett who appeared on CBS Detroit’s Michigan Matter. That was one of the headlines that came out of it. Sunday.

Mr. Messer oversees MEDC, which assists companies looking to expand or relocate to Michigan. He shared an update on the approximately 27 organizations recently selected as hubs for entrepreneurial activity, created following the passage of the $75 million Small Business Smart Zone and Business Accelerator initiative. He shared how they are helping businesses.

Holman spoke about the latest research, citing a state-wide poll of hundreds of companies in Michigan that asked companies about the issues that topped the list: finding talent. Ta. He added that polls show businesses are optimistic about the future and happy to locate in Michigan.

Barnett talked about his city being known as a great city for robot manufacturing and how it continues to grow.

Barnett also mentioned the Oakland University Golden Grizzlies men’s basketball team’s recent run in the NCAA Tournament, and how his alma mater’s sales of school merchandise have skyrocketed.

Watch Michigan Matters with new times. Streaming Sundays at 5:30 a.m. on CBS Detroit, Sundays at noon on Detroit 50 WKBD, and weekdays at 9 p.m. on his website, CBS Detroit’s app, and Pluto TV.

(Carol Kane is a 13-time Emmy Award-winning senior producer and host of Michigan Matters)