Michigan is expanding its support for small manufacturers as the automotive industry moves through a major period of change. The Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program, or MAST-P, has now opened its no-cost services to small manufacturers across all 83 counties, extending a programme that was previously limited to six counties. Backed by more than $9 million in federal grant funding, the three-year initiative is designed to reach more than 500 automotive suppliers and help very small businesses strengthen their operations, improve financial readiness, and explore new opportunities.
The programme comes at a time when Michigan’s manufacturing landscape is shifting from traditional internal combustion engine production towards electric vehicles, clean energy, defence, aerospace, and other advanced manufacturing sectors. Through business assessments, technical assistance, financial guidance, workforce development, and access to specialised partner organisations, MAST-P gives eligible suppliers practical support as they navigate these changes. With its statewide expansion, the initiative connects Michigan’s long-standing manufacturing heritage with the emerging needs of a rapidly evolving mobility and industrial economy.
1. Michigan Expands MAST-P to All 83 Counties
Michigan has officially expanded the Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program, known as MAST-P, to provide no-cost support to small manufacturers across all 83 counties. The programme was originally limited to Oakland, Wayne, Macomb, St. Clair, Lapeer, and Kent counties, but manufacturers throughout both the Upper and Lower Peninsulas can now access its services. Administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation on behalf of the Michigan Strategic Fund, MAST-P is backed by more than $9 million in federal grant funding. The three-year programme is designed to reach more than 500 automotive suppliers across the state. Its purpose is to help very small manufacturers adjust as the automotive industry changes, particularly as companies move beyond traditional internal combustion engine manufacturing towards electric vehicles, defence, aerospace, clean energy, and other advanced manufacturing sectors.
MAST-P Expansion at a Glance:
- Statewide access now available
- All 83 counties included
- More than $9 million
- Three-year support programme
- Over 500 suppliers targeted
The statewide expansion represents a significant change in how Michigan supports its smallest manufacturing businesses. Manufacturers in urban industrial centres as well as smaller rural communities can now receive customised assistance based on their operational needs. The programme provides a bridge for businesses that need to adapt to an evolving automotive landscape while building capabilities for new opportunities. MAST-P is supported through federal funding from the State Small Business Credit Initiative Investing in America Small Business Opportunity Program, under federal award number SSBCI-21034-0001 from the U.S. Department of the Treasury. By opening the programme beyond its original six-county footprint, Michigan is extending technical, financial, and strategic resources throughout the state.
2. Which Small Manufacturers Can Qualify for MAST-P?
MAST-P is designed specifically to reach very small manufacturers that are connected to Michigan’s internal combustion engine supply chain. Eligible businesses must have fewer than 10 employees, operate under NAICS codes 31-33, and demonstrate participation or an intention to participate in automotive supply chain activities. The programme also places particular emphasis on businesses owned by Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individuals. This focus is intended to ensure that underserved communities can actively participate in Michigan’s wider economic transformation. By setting specific eligibility requirements, MAST-P directs its no-cost services towards small suppliers that may face significant challenges as the automotive sector changes.
Key MAST-P Eligibility Details:
- Fewer than 10 employees
- NAICS codes 31-33
- Automotive supply chain connection
- Internal combustion supply chain
- Disadvantaged ownership receives focus
The eligibility requirements connect MAST-P directly with businesses facing the transition from traditional automotive manufacturing. Companies must already participate, or intend to participate, in automotive supply chain activities, while their connection to the internal combustion engine supply chain provides the foundation for the programme’s transition support. The emphasis on very small manufacturers also reflects the programme’s focus on businesses that may have fewer resources available during major industry changes. Through the expanded statewide access, qualifying businesses in every Michigan county can seek assistance as they consider new markets, improve operations, and prepare for changing manufacturing requirements.
3. MAST-P Provides Business and Financial Guidance
Participating manufacturers can receive a broad range of services without paying for the support. MAST-P provides hands-on assistance covering business assessments, operational guidance, accounting, financial management, and legal support. Qualified advisors can help small suppliers identify compliance needs, manage risks, and improve pricing strategies. The programme also helps companies prepare for capital access, giving them support as they pursue lending, equity investments, and other funding opportunities. These services are intended to strengthen the basic business foundations that small manufacturers need as they adapt to changing industry conditions and seek greater financial resilience.
Business Support Available at No Cost:
- Business assessments provided
- Operational guidance for suppliers
- Accounting and financial management
- Legal support and compliance
- Capital access preparation
The financial and operational side of the programme is closely connected to the wider transition facing Michigan suppliers. Instead of focusing only on production changes, MAST-P also addresses business fundamentals that can affect a company’s ability to grow and compete. Advisors can help businesses understand compliance requirements, manage risk, assess pricing, and prepare for potential capital opportunities. The programme’s support network therefore combines practical business assistance with financial preparation, allowing very small manufacturers to examine their current operations while developing a stronger foundation for future opportunities.
4. Small Suppliers Can Diversify Into New Industries
A central part of MAST-P is helping small manufacturers move beyond traditional automotive components and evaluate opportunities in growing industries. The programme provides direct assistance as businesses consider sectors including electric vehicle production, defence, aerospace, advanced energy, and advanced aerial mobility. Manufacturers can receive help evaluating new market opportunities while also modernising their operations and adopting greater process discipline. The goal is to help small suppliers develop capabilities that can allow them to compete for new high-tech contracts. This diversification approach is designed around the changing technology landscape and the need for local manufacturers to remain connected to evolving supply chains.
Industries Open To Diversification:
- Electric vehicle production
- Defence manufacturing opportunities
- Aerospace market opportunities
- Advanced energy sectors
- Advanced aerial mobility
The programme’s diversification support gives manufacturers an opportunity to examine markets beyond their established automotive work. MAST-P helps companies assess potential opportunities while improving operational capabilities needed for new contracts. This is particularly relevant as technology changes the requirements of manufacturing and creates new demand across electric vehicles, defence, aerospace, energy, and aerial mobility. By combining market evaluation with operational improvements, the programme seeks to help small suppliers remain essential links within Michigan’s changing manufacturing and mobility ecosystem.
5. Michigan’s Manufacturing Partners Deliver Specialised Support
MAST-P relies on a statewide network of organisations to provide specialised assistance to participating manufacturers. Outreach is jointly led by Automation Alley and the Michigan Manufacturers Association. Automation Alley focuses on innovation and Industry 4.0 technology adoption, while the Michigan Manufacturers Association serves as a statewide advocate for the manufacturing community. Other partners include the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council, the University of Michigan Economic Growth Institute, and the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center. Together, these organisations provide advisory services, financial reviews, strategic planning, technical assistance, operational improvements, training, market access, and financial literacy support.
MAST-P Partner Network Includes:
- Automation Alley outreach leadership
- Michigan Manufacturers Association
- Michigan Minority Supplier Development
- University of Michigan Institute
- Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center
Each partner contributes a different area of expertise to the programme’s service network. The Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council provides advisory services, lending pathways, training, and market access. The University of Michigan Economic Growth Institute conducts business assessments, financial reviews, and strategic growth planning, while the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center provides technical assistance, operational improvement programmes, and financial literacy training. This coordinated network gives very small suppliers access to specialised support covering both business strategy and practical manufacturing improvements.
6. Industry Leaders Highlight MAST-P’s Role in Transition
Michigan manufacturing leaders have highlighted the challenges facing very small suppliers during the industry’s current transformation. Quentin L. Messer Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, said automotive suppliers are dealing with changes driven by federal policy, global events, and technological advances. Tom Kelly, CEO of Automation Alley, noted that very small suppliers often face significant challenges during periods of industry change while remaining critical to the manufacturing ecosystem. Delaney McKinley of the Michigan Manufacturers Association also described the programme as building on Michigan’s manufacturing legacy by giving small suppliers tools and expertise for the next era of production.
Leaders Emphasise Supplier Support:
- Industry change is accelerating
- Very small suppliers matter
- Expert support removes barriers
- Manufacturing legacy continues
- Future opportunities need preparation
The comments from these leaders focus on the importance of helping small manufacturers navigate major changes without losing their connection to Michigan’s manufacturing ecosystem. MAST-P is intended to provide a simple entry point and coordinated support at no cost, allowing businesses to concentrate on adapting, growing, and competing. The Michigan Manufacturers Association also emphasised the state’s history of innovation and adaptation through major industrial shifts. The programme’s approach therefore connects Michigan’s established manufacturing identity with the need for small suppliers to develop new capabilities and explore emerging opportunities.
7. Federal Funding Adds Capital for Automotive Transformation
MAST-P operates alongside broader federal efforts supporting Michigan’s manufacturing and automotive workforce. During a Michigan Workforce Hub convening in Detroit, National Economic Advisor Lael Brainard announced additional actions supporting auto manufacturers and workers. Treasury funding connects small firms to more than $230 million in additional lending and equity investments available through the American Rescue Plan’s SSBCI programme. Private financial support is also expanding through Monroe Capital’s commitment to raise up to $1 billion for its “Drive Forward” Fund, which is intended to provide lower-cost capital to small and medium auto suppliers seeking to refinance, grow, and diversify.
Additional Automotive Funding Includes:
- More than $230 million
- Up to $1 billion fund
- Lending and equity investments
- Lower-cost supplier capital
- Support for diversification
Federal manufacturing conversion funding is also supporting major facilities in Michigan. The Department of Energy announced $500 million for General Motors in Lansing and $158 million for ZF North America in Marysville to convert legacy combustion engine plants to electric vehicle production. The two unionised UAW facilities are converting their operations while preserving or creating more than 1,000 jobs combined. Michigan is also eligible for more than $18 million to help small and medium suppliers convert facilities for electric vehicle production. Federal trade policy has additionally raised tariffs to 100% on EVs and batteries imported from China.
8. Michigan Workforce Hub Expands Training Opportunities
Workforce development is another major part of Michigan’s manufacturing transition. The Michigan Workforce Hub, launched as one of nine national hubs under the Biden-Harris Investing in America agenda, brings together unions, employers, colleges, and government agencies. Since its launch, the U.S. Department of Labor has invested more than $5.4 million to expand registered apprenticeships in Michigan, while the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity is using $25 million in American Rescue Plan funding to expand apprenticeship opportunities statewide. Other programmes are creating pathways for workers, veterans, students, and transportation workers.
Michigan Workforce Support Includes:
- More than $5.4 million
- $25 million apprenticeship funding
- Over 140 auto jobs
- More than 500 EV workers
- Over 1,000 students reached
A Wayne County pilot is training workers while they earn a pay check for more than 140 high-quality auto supply chain jobs, with the Southeast Michigan Community Alliance providing supportive services such as transportation and childcare. A $4 million investment with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers supports more than 500 workers earning the Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Training Program credential, with more than 40% coming from target populations. Taskforce Movement and the state are also creating pathways for transitioning service members and veterans, while a Commercial Driver’s License to Registered Apprenticeship pilot supports 15 participants from underrepresented groups. Detroit Public Schools programmes involving the Detroit Lions and Detroit Pistons are providing career exposure to more than 1,000 high school students.
9. Michigan Builds a Battery Manufacturing Talent Pipeline
Michigan is receiving substantial investment to develop talent for the expanding battery manufacturing sector. The Department of Energy and industry partners are providing $23.6 million for the Battery Workforce Challenge, which is designed to train up to 14,000 workers nationwide. More than $600,000 is being invested in Michigan colleges to train over 300 residents. Michigan is also home to the nation’s first piloted battery manufacturing STEM talent pipeline, supported by at least $400,000 in direct funding. The programme includes $200,000 for Henry Ford Community College in Detroit to establish a Battery/EV Technical Center and $200,000 for the University of Michigan-Dearborn for undergraduate training and a summer boot camp.
Battery Workforce Investment Includes:
- $23.6 million nationwide
- Up to 14,000 workers
- Over 300 Michigan residents
- Battery/EV Technical Center
- Undergraduate training programme
An additional $250,000 is going to the Society of Manufacturing Engineers to integrate a battery manufacturing pathway into its SME PRIME programme for high school students. To standardise education across institutions, the Department of Energy and Argonne National Laboratory are partnering with New Energy New York to deploy BattTech educational content covering battery technology, electric vehicle development, safety, manufacturing, and recycling. The Department of Energy’s Battery Workforce Initiative is also working with Michigan community colleges on classroom and on-the-job training standards certified by the Department of Labor for battery machine operator apprenticeships. Another $200,000 is being invested to provide skills assessments for firms transitioning to clean goods production.
10. MAST-P Reaches a State With Deep Manufacturing Roots
The statewide expansion of MAST-P covers a geographically diverse state with a deep industrial identity. Michigan spans approximately 96,713 square miles, making it the 11th largest state by total area, while its land area ranks 22nd because its jurisdiction includes extensive Great Lakes waters. The state is divided between the Upper and Lower Peninsulas, connected by the five-mile Mackinac Bridge. Michigan has more than 3,288 miles of freshwater coastline along Lake Superior, Lake Michigan, Lake Huron, and Lake Erie, and its population exceeds 10 million residents. Lansing is the state capital, while Detroit, with about 645,000 residents, is the largest city and the historic birthplace of the American auto industry.
Michigan’s Industrial Reach Includes:
- 83 counties covered
- Over 3,288 coastline miles
- More than 10 million residents
- Upper and Lower Peninsulas
- Over 64,000 inland lakes
Michigan’s manufacturing communities extend across regions including Grand Rapids, Flint, Ann Arbor, Kalamazoo, Muskegon, and the Tri-Cities, while the state contains more than 64,000 inland lakes and 300 named rivers. The Grand River stretches 252 miles as Michigan’s longest river, and the Detroit River handles significant shipping traffic between the United States and Canada. The statewide MAST-P expansion means manufacturers across these different regions can access the programme’s support. Combined with technical expertise, financial guidance, workforce programmes, and battery manufacturing training, the initiative provides a bridge from legacy manufacturing towards electric vehicles, clean energy, defence, aerospace, and other advanced production opportunities.
