The Michigan State University Industrial Training Assessment Center and University of Michigan Economic Growth Institute have been awarded $500,000 by the US Department of Energy to launch the Michigan Automotive Supply Chain Technical Assistance Program.

This two-year initiative will help small and medium-sized manufacturers in Michigan’s automotive sector transition to electric vehicle components and diversify their product lines.

This program is managed by ENERGYWERX in partnership with DOE, a collaboration made possible through an innovative Partnership Intermediary Agreement set up by the DOE’s Office of Technology Transitions. This agreement enables ENERGYWERX to broaden DOE’s engagement with innovative organizations and non-traditional partners, facilitating the rapid development, scaling, and deployment of clean energy solutions.

The funding supports a program that will test and develop a comprehensive playbook with manufacturers and business leaders. As both a service and collaboration, the initiative centers around the deployment of a detailed guide designed to offer technical, financial, and strategic support. Developed with insights from Argonne National Laboratory and private sector experts, the playbook will guide manufacturers in key areas, including how to:

• Identify opportunities to diversify or convert existing product lines.

• Understand workforce and financing considerations for transitioning to EV components.

• Implement practical action plans tailored to each company’s specific capabilities and market opportunities.

EGI and MSU ITAC will use the playbook alongside their programming supporting small manufacturers. These engagements will identify priorities and resources to address the specific needs of each business.

The teams will test and refine the playbook using insights from participants and other key stakeholders. Real-time feedback will be gathered through ongoing roundtables, ensuring that expertise from various domains—including production, engineering, marketing, finance and senior leadership—contributes to the playbook’s continuous improvement and development.

The organizations bring decades of expertise serving small manufacturers across Michigan and will guide businesses through this critical transition. Key facilities such as MSU’s Composite Vehicle Research Center and U-M’s Battery Lab will support the program’s technical aspects. U-M’s Electric Vehicle Center will offer targeted training modules and professional development to prepare the workforce for new technological demands.