Michigan’s Auto Suppliers Built the Industry. Now It’s Time to Build What Comes Next.

This article appeared in the October 2026 issue of MiMfg Magazine. Read the full issue and find past issues online.

No-Cost Expert Support Now Available to Help State’s Smallest Manufacturers Diversify, Grow and Lead in New Industries

Michigan’s automotive supply chain has never stood still. For generations, our manufacturers have adapted to new technologies, changing customer expectations and evolving global demands. They have retooled plants, refined processes and solved complex problems, all while helping make Michigan a global center of manufacturing excellence.

Today, the industry is entering another period of significant change.

The future of mobility extends far beyond the traditional internal combustion engine. Electrification, autonomous systems, advanced batteries, connected vehicles, drones, aerospace and defense are all changing what we build, and the capabilities required to be a manufacturing leader.

For Michigan’s smallest automotive suppliers, this shift presents real challenges. Many have built successful businesses around a specialized component, process or customer within the traditional automotive supply chain. As mobility platforms evolve, relying too heavily on one product, customer or industry can create risk.

But change also creates tremendous opportunity. Our engineering expertise, quality control and the ability to meet demanding specifications are valuable assets across many growing industries.

Diversification does not mean abandoning automotive. It means strengthening the business by creating additional paths to revenue, growth and long-term resilience.

That is why the Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program, or MAST-P, was created.

Led by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and delivered through a network of trusted Michigan partners, MAST-P provides eligible small manufacturers with tailored support at no cost. The program helps companies evaluate their strengths, improve their business operations, prepare for capital and pursue opportunities in new industries.

Companies accepted into MAST-P can access:

• Business assessments to identify capabilities, gaps and growth opportunities
• Technical assistance to improve processes, adopt technology and strengthen operations
• Financial guidance to improve financial management and capital readiness
• Training focused on competing in emerging manufacturing markets
• Market-access support to explore new industries, supply chains and business opportunities
• Legal and accounting guidance to reduce risk and build stronger business practices

Each company’s path will be different. For one manufacturer, the first step may be understanding its true production costs. For another, it may be identifying a new industry, obtaining the right certification, adopting technology or preparing to finance new equipment. MAST-P meets companies where they are and connects them with the expertise needed to move forward.

The businesses best positioned for the future will not necessarily be those that predict exactly how mobility will evolve. They will be the ones prepared to respond, understand their transferable capabilities, strengthen their fundamentals and build relationships beyond their traditional industries.

Michigan’s suppliers built the automotive industry we know today. With the right preparation and support, they can also help build the industries of tomorrow.

Eligible companies have fewer than 10 employees and are connected to the automotive supply chain. Learn more and apply at automationalley.com/mast-p.

The Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program (MAST-P) is a collaborative initiative led by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation in partnership with MMA, Automation Alley, the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council and the University of Michigan Economic Growth Institute.