Capitol News

Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced that three Canadian companies plan to invest over $2.5 million in Michigan, creating more than 50 jobs. The announcement was made during her speech at the Empire Club of Canada, where she emphasized the strong economic relationship between Michigan and Canada.

“Today, we’ve made the case that Michigan is the best place to invest, even in uncertain global times,” said Governor Whitmer. “From clean energy to advanced manufacturing and mobility, our partnership with Canada remains strong and continues to create good-paying jobs on both sides of the border. I look forward to building on this momentum and strengthening our partnership.”

Two high-tech automotive sector investments were highlighted: Laserglow Technologies and Geotab USA, Inc. Laserglow Technologies, based in Toronto, will open its first U.S. warehouse and assembly facility in Sterling Heights, bringing 16 new jobs and a private investment of $1,225,000. The project will receive support from a $72,000 performance-based grant through the Michigan Business Development Program.

“As our U.S. customer base continues to grow, expanding into Michigan is a natural and necessary step,” said Dimitry Fedorov, CEO of Laserglow Technologies. “Sterling Heights offers strategic access to our key markets, a strong manufacturing ecosystem, and a shared commitment to innovation. This facility strengthens our ability to serve partners with greater speed and proximity, while reinforcing our long-term investment in building safer, more efficient industrial environments across America.”

Maureen Donohue Krauss of the Detroit Regional Partnership welcomed Laserglow’s expansion: "The Detroit Region continues to lead the way in advancing Industry 4.0 technologies," she said. "Laserglow’s decision to establish their new U.S. headquarters here in Michigan is a prime reflection of that. We’re proud to welcome them to the Detroit Region, and excited to see their cutting-edge products further enhance safety in manufacturing."

Macomb County Executive Mark Hackel commented on Laserglow's decision: "We're thrilled to see Laserglow chose Macomb County, and more specifically Sterling Heights for its new U.S. headquarters," he said. "The Canadian company clearly saw the value in our region... I'd like to commend our Department of Planning and Economic Development for its role in making this initiative possible."

Sterling Heights Mayor Michael C. Taylor also welcomed Laserglow: “Right on the heels of Rafael Systems Global Sustainment choosing Sterling Heights as its American Headquarters, we are thrilled to welcome Laserglow’s U.S. headquarters... Their $1.2 million investment is a vote of confidence in our community as well as a reflection of the business-friendly environment and unmatched workforce we’ve built here."

Geotab USA plans an office in Metro Detroit (Madison Heights), serving as a hub for product development with an initial creation of 41 senior and technical jobs alongside $1,560,000 in private investment; state support is under consideration.

“Metro Detroit’s legacy in the automotive industry and its reputation as a hub for transportation transformation make it the perfect location for us...” said Neil Cawse, Founder and CEO of Geotab.

Maureen Donohue Krauss added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Geotab’s U.S. Engineering Center... Their investment reinforces Michigan’s position as a global hub where hardware and software converge..."

Oakland County Executive David Coulter stated: “Oakland County is delighted to roll out the welcome mat for Geotab’s new engineering support facility..."

Giles Tucker from Madison Heights noted: “Madison Heights is proud to welcome Geotab USA into our local business community...”

A third company—Charbone Corporation from Montreal—plans an electrolyzer facility producing clean hydrogen fuel within Michigan.

“Charbone Corporation thanks Governor Gretchen Whitmer ... Our company has been planning its first U.S. facility in Michigan..." said Dave B. Gagnon.

Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) CEO Quentin L. Messer Jr., who joined Governor Whitmer on this mission with other MEDC representatives engaging Canadian companies across sectors stated: “By continuing ... Team Michigan is creating opportunity at home by attracting investment from innovative companies from around the world... As we conclude this mission ... Work remains; however this investment mission built undeniable momentum for the future.”

Trade between Michigan and Canada remains significant; since 2019 Canadian firms have launched 42 projects worth $2.75 billion resulting in nearly 7,833 jobs created within key sectors such as automotive manufacturing but also including renewable energy among others.

Governor Whitmer's announcement builds upon previous international outreach efforts focused on strengthening business ties across Asia Europe Australia positioning Michigan competitively worldwide.