More than 550 New Jobs Coming to Oakland and Macomb Counties, Small Business Support Hubs

• Expansions from FANUC Corporation and SAPA Transmission will result in 553 new jobs
• Mixed-use development to add housing, retail in Detroit’s Eastern Market corridor
• Erie Township awarded Michigan Build Ready Sites grant for sewer infrastructure
• Regional Small Business Support Hubs selected to receive $11.27 million in state funding
• Guidelines amended and $3 million in additional funding approved for Michigan Innovate Capital Fund

LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) Board approval for projects that support a commitment to businesses growing their operations in Michigan, developing attractive places, and supporting aspiring small business owners across the state. 

“Michigan is on the move and open for business, competing for and winning big projects in industries like robotics and defense manufacturing,” said Governor Whitmer. “We’re working hard to invest in vibrant communities and help more small businesses and entrepreneurs succeed here. Today’s announcement will create over 550 good-paying jobs and cement Michigan as the best place to build the future. Let’s keep working together to create good-paying jobs, bring supply chains home from overseas, and tell Michigan’s story.” 

“We are grateful to these risk-taking entrepreneurs and established businesspeople across industries who continue to express their votes of confidence in our state. From business expansions and housing in Metro Detroit to supporting small businesses across the state, today’s approved projects demonstrate that the state’s economic development strategy focused on supporting businesses of all sizes, revitalizing places and creating employment opportunities for Michiganders is having a positive impact,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the MEDC and MSF Board Chair. “We thank Governor Whitmer, the members of the Michigan Strategic Fund Board, the Michigan Legislature, and our economic development partners for their work in creating and funding the economic development tools that support these projects.” 

FANUC America Corporation expanding manufacturing operations in Pontiac, estimated to create at least 225 new jobs 

OVERVIEW: FANUC America Corporation, a global leader in robotics and automation headquartered in Rochester Hills (Oakland County), is expanding its operations with the construction of a new, 840,000 square-foot facility in the City of Pontiac (Oakland County) to meet increased domestic demand for robotics and industrial equipment.

The facility will be used for manufacturing, logistics, research and development, and other industrial uses; additional investment will be in racking, material handling equipment, cranes, and other equipment.

During a 2023 investment mission to Japan, Gov. Whitmer met with company executives at FANUC to talk about the importance of advanced manufacturing in Michigan and how the state would support the company’s growth in the years to come.

The MSF Board approved a $1.575 million Michigan Business Development Program (MBDP) performance-based grant to support the expansion, which will result in the estimated creation of at least 225 new jobs, ranging from entry-level positions to advanced engineering careers, and a total capital investment of at least $90 million. FANUC currently has 1,497 employees in Michigan across five locations.

“For more than 40 years, FANUC America has manufactured robots in Michigan,” said Mike Cicco, president and CEO of FANUC America. “This investment will expand our engineering, advanced manufacturing, research and development, and logistics capabilities, helping us meet growing demand for automation solutions throughout the Americas while further strengthening domestic manufacturing. The new facility will support the continued advancement of automation and AI-enabled technologies that are shaping the future of industry. We appreciate the support of the Michigan Strategic Fund, MEDC, and our local partners for helping make this project possible.” 

WHY IT MATTERS: When complete, the expansion will increase FANUC’s manufacturing capacity to meet domestic and foreign demand for their products. Additionally, new industrial robotic models will potentially be manufactured at the facility, building on the company’s manufacturing legacy within Michigan.

FANUC also considered other states for this project; locating this expansion in the City of Pontiac, where the company currently has operations, will allow FANUC to increase its manufacturing and logistics capacity within Michigan. Beyond the creation of new jobs, FANUC helps manufacturers large and small across Michigan improve productivity, address workforce challenges, and remain globally competitive through advanced automation technologies.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING:

“FANUC America’s investment in Pontiac reflects confidence in Oakland County’s talented workforce and quality of our communities,” said Oakland County Executive David Coulter. “By expanding its engineering and advanced manufacturing capabilities here, FANUC is creating new opportunities for our residents and reinforcing our position as a leader in technology and advanced manufacturing. We look forward to continuing our strong partnership with FANUC as we drive innovation together.” 

SAPA Transmission, Inc. to increase production capacity with construction of state-of-the-art facility in Shelby Township

OVERVIEW: U.S.-based defense manufacturer SAPA Transmission Inc. is expanding its operations in Shelby Township (Macomb County) through the construction of a 200,000 square-foot, two-story, state-of-the-art advanced manufacturing facility. The new facility will increase production capacity and enable SAPA to scale its advanced machining operations, meeting the growing demand tied to next-generation ground combat vehicle programs and long-term Army modernization efforts. 

The expansion project will result in a total capital investment of at least $163 million and the creation of at least 328 new jobs with starting wages of $28 per hour plus benefits – above the regional median wage of $24.69 per hour. The company currently employs 315 people in Spain through its parent organization and 60 people in Shelby Township.  

The MSF Board approved a $5 million MBDP performance-based grant for the project, as well as a 15-year, 50% State Essential Services Assessment (SESA) Exemption with an estimated value of up to $1,423,110 for its $130.2 million eligible investment in Eligible Personal Property. 

“SAPA Transmission’s continued progress in Michigan is a testament to the exceptional partnership between industry, state leadership, and local communities,” said Darren Werner, President, SAPA Transmission. “With the support of the State of Michigan and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, we have expanded our advanced manufacturing capabilities, strengthened our Michigan-based supply chain, and invested in the workforce and technologies needed to support our nation’s defense. Michigan has long been the Arsenal of Democracy, and today we are proud to be contributing to the next generation of defense manufacturing right here in Shelby Township. Together, we are creating high-quality jobs, expanding industrial capacity, and ensuring that Michigan remains a national leader in advanced manufacturing, innovation, and national security.” 

WHY IT MATTERS: SAPA’s expansion in Southeast Michigan strengthens the region’s position as a defense and advanced manufacturing hub for ground combat vehicle development and production while further connecting them to the local supply chain. The company considered other states including Ohio, Alabama, Pennsylvania, and Texas for its expansion, and ultimately chose Michigan for its defense manufacturing ecosystem. 

In addition to serving as a major economic driver for Shelby Township and redeveloping a brownfield site, this investment will further strengthen Michigan’s defense supply chain, support U.S. military readiness through domestic production of high-performance combat transmissions and enhance the state’s leadership and reputation as a hub for advanced manufacturing and Industry 4.0 technologies.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING: 

“We are deeply excited that SAPA Transmission chose to continue their growth in Macomb County,” said County Executive Mark Hackel. “Manufacturing operations continue to advance as a core part of our economy, with notable assistance from our economic development team and partners. I want to extend a congratulations to everyone involved in this project.” 

Mixed-use development in Detroit’s Eastern Market district to add housing, retail 

OVERVIEW: The MSF Board also approved support for the adaptive reuse of five parcels in the Eastern Market district of Detroit (Wayne County), resulting in 17 new apartments and 6,500 square feet of retail space. The 1401 Gratiot project will accelerate the transformation and growth of the Eastern Market district by enhancing retail and housing options through reactivating vacant property. 

The project is being supported by a $1.5 million Michigan Community Revitalization Program (MCRP) grant to assist with the structural rehabilitation of the vacant historic properties and will generate a total capital investment of over $12.56 million. The project is receiving local support through an Obsolete Property Rehabilitation (OPRA) Act tax abatement and the local portion of the Act 381 Work Plan, valued at approximately $887,331 and $1,071,997, respectively.  

Busy Bee Development, LLC is operated under the ownership and management of Basco, a Detroit-based development company founded in 2001 by co-applicant Roger Basmajian. Basco specializes in the adaptive reuse of historic structures and was previously supported by the MEDC for projects in and around Downtown Detroit, including the renovation of the First State Bank at 751 Griswold and the Broadway Lofts.  

“I am grateful for all the hard work that everyone at the MEDC and the DEGC put in to help Basco realize this project,” said developer Roger Basmajian. “It was not easy, but we would not be here without your support. Thank you again for having the vision and recognizing worthy developments that save historic places, create residential density and jobs, and help our city and state be a better place to live and work.” 

WHY IT MATTERS: The property at 1401 Gratiot has been vacant since 2018; the revitalization of this historic property will add critical housing to a prime location near Eastern Market, Ford Field, Comerica Park, and other Downtown Detroit cultural landmarks.

This project also supports the City of Detroit’s vision for a mixed-use, mixed-income district focusing on walkability and residential density in the Eastern Market area. Of the 17 residential units, four will be offered at or below 80% Area Median Income, and all retail spaces are intended to be occupied by food-based tenants to connect with the existing Eastern Market district.

WHAT THEY’RE SAYING: 

“Busy Bee sat vacant for decades, and today it’s coming back as homes and businesses to add to the vitality that already exists in Eastern Market. This $12.5 million investment delivers 17 residential units, with a fifth of them affordable at 80% AMI, plus more than 6,500 square feet of new commercial space at one of the district’s most visible corners,” said Alton Williams II, senior commercial real estate manager at the Detroit Economic Growth Corporation. “We’re proud DEGC could stand alongside the City of Detroit and MEDC to help this project cross the finish line. Projects like this help people move to Detroit and stay in Detroit.” 

Erie Township awarded Michigan Ready Sites grant for sewer infrastructure 

At this month’s meeting, the MSF Board also approved an $8.5 million Michigan Ready Sites grant to support infrastructure improvements for the LAC site in Erie Township (Monroe County). The Michigan Ready Sites program helps communities and developers prepare properties for future investment, building a stronger pipeline of competitive sites around the state. 

The funding will be used to extend and enhance sanitary sewer service to the LAC site and multiple adjacent properties along the project corridor that currently lack sewer access, providing the final utility necessary to fully serve over 500 acres of potential industrial and commercial land north of Sterns Road.  

The total cost for the project is currently estimated to be $20,760,000. The $8.5 million grant would be used primarily for design and construction costs of the section of the extension from Sterns Road to the south side of downtown Erie, which will activate the industrial land. The future phases of the project, the sections serving downtown Erie up to Mason Eagle Drive, will be funded separately. 

This upgrade will significantly reduce development risk and enhance the sites’ competitiveness for industrial investment. In addition, the project will extend sewer availability to several neighboring properties, creating broader opportunities for economic development throughout the corridor. 

"This Michigan Build Ready Sites grant is a transformative investment that positions Erie Township for long-term economic growth by delivering the critical infrastructure needed to unlock more than 500 acres of development-ready land,” said Mike Grodi, supervisor for Erie Township. “Beyond the benefits to our township, this project strengthens Monroe County's ability to attract new employers, create good-paying jobs, and expand our tax base while enhancing the competitiveness of Southeast Michigan as a destination for business investment. We are grateful for the State's partnership and look forward to building on this momentum to create lasting opportunities for our residents and the entire region." 

Organizations selected for Small Business Support Hubs 2.0 Program 

The MSF Board also approved the MEDC’s selection of 11 organizations to serve as Small Business Support Hubs (SBSH), building on the success of the federally supported SBSH 1.0 program first introduced in 2023. SBSH 1.0 was funded by a one-time appropriation using American Rescue Plan Act dollars to create and operate programs to support small businesses disproportionately impacted by COVID-19.

In February 2026, the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) Board approved nearly $11.3 million in state funding for the SBSH 2.0 program, and the MEDC launched the application process in April with a statewide webinar. 

The MEDC selected 11 organizations to serve as SBSH 2.0 hubs, providing comprehensive resources and support to the state’s small businesses in each of the 10 prosperity regions as well as one statewide organization: 

• Region 1: Michigan Tech Enterprise Corporation ($850,000)
• Region 2: Northwest Michigan Council of Governments ($697,500)
• Region 3: Northeast Michigan Council of Governments ($615,000)
• Region 4: West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce ($1,488,250)
• Region 5: Central Michigan University Research Corporation ($645,000)
• Region 6: Economic Development Alliance of St. Clair County ($880,000)
• Region 7: Lansing Economic Area Partnership ($675,000)
• Region 8: Southwest Michigan First Corporation ($930,000)
• Region 9: Ann Arbor SPARK ($1,250,000)
• Region 10: Wayne State University Research & Technology Park in City of Detroit dba TechTown Detroit ($2,595,750)
• Statewide: Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM) Foundation ($650,000)

The program generated a high level of interest and demand, with 115 total applications received and 33 complete, eligible applications reviewed by a 24-member Joint Evaluation Committee. The 11 organizations selected will receive grants ranging from $615,000 to over $2.5 million.  

“The strong response from applicants demonstrates the tremendous opportunity to raise the bar for accessible, high-quality support in communities across our state,” said Amy Rencher, senior vice president of Small Business at the MEDC. “Through a coordinated, expert network, 11 organizations will help entrepreneurs access the capital, technical assistance, connections, and other tools they need to grow and scale in Michigan.” 

Guidelines amended for Michigan Innovate Capital Fund, additional $3 million allocated to support high-potential startups in state 

The MSF Board also approved amended guidelines and an allocation of $3 million for the Michigan Innovate Capital Fund (MICF) from the Jobs for Michigan Investment Fund. The amended guidelines will expand the eligible uses of funds to include loans, such as Purchase Order financing and bridge loans, in addition to equity investments. This change will provide fund managers with greater flexibility to meet financing needs of early-stage Michigan companies.

First established in June 2023 with approval from the MSF Board and an initial allocation of $23 million, the MICF program received additional allocations from the Board in September 2024 and March 2025. 

With the Board’s approval of the latest allocation, the total for the program is now $36 million. The additional funding will ensure sustained support for high-potential startups across Michigan.  

"This support from the MSF Board expands access to capital and gives Michigan’s high-growth startups more flexible financing tools to meet critical needs as they scale,” said Alison Todak, vice president of Entrepreneurship & Innovation at the MEDC. “By pairing equity investment with working capital options, the MEDC can help more innovative companies turn customer demand into growth, create jobs and attract additional private investment in Michigan." 

NOTE FROM THE MEDC: Investment and job numbers represent the commitment made by the business to the state of Michigan. Terms will be formalized in a performance-based project agreement, with funds disbursed as reimbursement based on eligible expenditures, and are subject to amendment or cancellation if the commitments are not met due to risks or uncertainties. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation provides a public annual report on agreements and their status to the state legislature.  

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter.