Gov. Whitmer awards $21M to 11 small- and medium-sized auto suppliers

Michigan Supplier Conversion Granthelps auto suppliers prepare for future vehicle needs; keeps domestic auto supply chain strong

LANSING, Mich. — Gov. Whitmer joined the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO) to announce 11 small- and medium-sized auto employers receiving a share of the $21 million in Michigan Supplier Conversion Grant program funding to shift from producing parts, components or materials for internal combustion engine vehicles to materials needed in qualified vehicle supply chains (like hybrids) – ensuring Michigan’s auto and manufacturing industry remains a national leader. 

“Our Michigan Supplier Conversion Grant Program is helping small- and medium-sized auto suppliers weather a period of rising costs and uncertainty," said Gov. Whitmer. "This funding gives Michigan suppliers critical support to modernize their operations, upgrade machinery and retool for the hybrid and electric vehicles of the future. By helping these businesses manage today’s challenges while preparing for tomorrow’s opportunities, we’re strengthening our supply chain, protecting Michigan jobs and keeping our auto industry competitive. Let’s keep working together to make sure Michigan businesses have the tools they need to weather the storm and lead the future of manufacturing.”

The grant program is designed to provide Michigan manufacturers with critical capital to modernize operations, expand and upgrade auto supply production and adapt their machinery to meet demand in emerging, competitive global markets — with the ultimate goal of strengthening their competitiveness and supporting long‑term job retainment and growth.

“Giving manufacturers accessible pathways to obtain funding they need to pivot towards future growth ensures Michigan’s economy remains strong and that our smallest suppliers can adapt to market changes, retain quality jobs and remain part of Michigan’s manufacturing future,” said LEO Director Susan Corbin. 

Eleven Michigan automotive manufacturers will use funding to purchase new equipment or make upgrades, expand facilities and align workforce initiatives designed to meet evolving industry standards in battery components, electrification and advanced materials.

The grant awardees are:

• Barron Industries, Oxford
• Hanson International, Saint Joseph
• Lomar Machine & Tool Co., Horton
• MAKS Incorporated, Troy
• Marel Power Solutions, Inc., Plymouth
• Metal Flow Corporation, Holland
• Mid Michigan Plastics and Tooling, LLC, West Branch
• Northern Industrial Manufacturing, Harrison Township
• Precision MHE, Inkster
• Primera Plastics, Inc, Zeeland
• Scherdel Sales and Technology Inc., Muskegon

“This strategy plays a critical role by retaining and growing jobs in long-standing industrial communities, attracting new investment through practical solutions to supply chain instability and positioning the state as a national leader in helping our automotive industry remain adaptable and strong,” said LEO’s Community and Worker Economic Transition Office Director Luke Forrest. 

"Manufacturers that embrace change are best positioned for long-term success. The Michigan Supplier Conversion Grant gives companies the opportunity to diversify, modernize and pursue new business opportunities that will strengthen Michigan's manufacturing sector. MMTC is proud to support these transformational efforts," said Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center President Ingrid Tighe.

This grant was made possible through $22.6 million from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Domestic Automotive Manufacturing Conversion Grant program designated to award grants directly to small- and medium-sized automotive manufacturers to adapt to economic and industry changes which will increase domestic production capacity of qualified vehicles and their components.

Learn more about the Michigan Supplier Conversion Grant Program.