Michigan’s restored image will be a global comeback story. Michigan’s reputation has fallen along with its economic decline. It will not be easy, but Michigan has the potential to be the comeback story of this era. Its history is one of innovation, resilience and a shared work ethic that has been the envy of the world. This is the state that built America’s middle class and inspired the American Dream. Michigan rose to the top before and it can do it again.

Michigan’s rich history is synonymous with innovation and creativity. We proved that through hard work and dedication, each generation could improve on the one before. Leaders like Henry Ford helped create an era of industrialization that propelled Michigan to manufacturing leadership. The state also produced innovators who helped shape the world of aviation like Charles Lindbergh and William Boeing; revolutionized applications of modern technology like William Hewlett and Larry Paige; and took heroic steps to end racial segregation like Ralph Bunche. There are countless others, like Kellogg, Dodge, Upjohn, Dow and the list goes on.

Michigan can build a culture of entrepreneurialism and leverage our greatest assets. Michigan should be synonymous with innovation and entrepreneurialism again. Michigan’s world class universities continue to expand their investments in research and development. Leveraging these investments to spark small business growth is one of our brightest opportunities. Michigan’s University Research Corridor (URC), consisting of WSU, MSU, and U of M supports over 70,000 jobs and generates over $14 billion in economic activity annually and is quickly developing a reputation as a world leader in research and development. Other research centers, including WMU, Michigan Tech and others continue to make significant contributions.

Michigan’s natural resources, history, culture and arts give the state an advantage. Preserving Michigan’s natural resources and cultural heritage will contribute to our quality of life and give Michigan a natural competitive advantage over other states as we rebuild our economy. Each year, recreational fishing and hunting contributes more than $1 billion to the state’s economy. Michigan’s arts and cultural community generates nearly $2 billion annually and more than 108,000 jobs. Michigan must continue to invest in tourism. The state’s tourism industry contributes $18.8 billion to the economy annually, accounting for 200,000 jobs and generating $1.1 billion in state tax revenue. For every $1 invested in the Pure Michigan campaign, the state generates about $2.86 in revenues. These programs clearly produce results.  

Rick Snyder is the leader who can make Michigan a global force again. Rick understands what makes Michigan great. In addition, he has already interacted with leaders from across the country in his efforts to reinvent Michigan. He knows how to tell Michigan’s story effectively and how to bring new opportunities to the state. Under his leadership, Michigan will be “Open For Business” as a hot spot for innovation and entrepreneurship that offers a great quality of life.

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