Michigan factories retool (images courtesy of Crossingthecontinent on Flickr)

$15 million from the federal government will help Michigan factories retool with stimulus funds.  Automotive industries that have been hit hard by the recession now will be able to manufacture wind turbines and other renewable energy parts with help from the federal government.  Governor Jennifer Granholm announced yesterday that auto suppliers, seriously hurt by the current market, should be boosted by the new plan.

Michigan auto suppliers find it difficult to obtain loans because banks and investors are uncertain with respect to the automobile industry in the U.S.  But now, $15 million in Michigan stimulus funds will be provided to help Michigan factories retool, stay afloat and even move ahead.

Not only with the money help the Great Lakes State by providing jobs for its struggling economy, but the hope is that Michigan will emerge as a leading manufacturer of wind energy equipment.  Many believe that former auto parts workers are uniquely qualified to work in the retooled factories to build renewable energy parts for wind and solar energy.

Michigan wind farms are literally springing up everywhere:

photo credit: KaiChanVong

With respect to the Michigan stimulus funds and opportunities for Michigan factories to retool, Governor Granholm observed:

“We have a natural asset not just in wind, but in manufacturing capacity.  We have vacant factories, we have suppliers who need to be able to put people to work and to stay open.”

If you live or work in Michigan and want to take advantage of some of the federal stimulus funds, Michigan-based companies with 500 or less employees can submit a proposal to the state Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth (DELEG).  You must also be able to show that your company can obtain private funding.

Don’t delay – you only have until August 14, 2009 to apply for a grant.  For more information, call the Bureau of Energy Systems at 517-241-6228 or visit www.michigan.gov/energyoffice.

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