Our strategies focus on attracting high-skilled New Americans, international students, and entrepreneurs to Michigan; retaining new residents as well as those already here; placing this skilled workforce with Michigan companies to fill unmet talent needs, establishing Michigan as a center for global prosperity.

Our Statewide Programs

  • Michigan Attraction Initiative

    Attracting college-educated immigrants to Michigan through a digital marketing strategy and support campaign.

  • Global Entrepreneurs in Residence

    Anchoring immigrant entrepreneurs and startup founders in Michigan through partnerships with Michigan colleges and universities.

  • Global Talent Retention Initiative

    Working with higher education to retain international students in Michigan through soft skills training and networking with employers.

  • Credential Evaluation, Upskilling, and Reskilling

    Providing scholarships to support immigrants’ career success through credential evaluation, upskilling, or reskilling activities.

  • Contextualized English Language Learning

    Assisting immigrants, educators and employers through industry-specific, contextualized English as a Second Language (ESL) support.

  • Community College Immigrant Student Success

    Enhancing enrollment, retention, and completion rates at Michigan community colleges through grant funding, cohort model learning, and best practice technical assistance.

  • Skilled Immigrant Integration Program

    Reconnecting college-educated immigrants to the Michigan workforce by establishing pathways to professional licenses, enhancing job search skills and career readiness, and placing them with Michigan employers.

  • Michigan Welcome Back Center

    Exploring the feasibility of a healthcare professional-focused center to address employee shortages and improve access to health services.

“By increasing our state’s college completion rates, we are setting Michigan up to be a front-runner in a globally competitive economy.”

Susan Corbin, Director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity