TROY, Mich. (FOX 2) – The backbone of Michigan’s economy has and continues to be manufacturing, which is why two times a year the state sends 10 small businesses overseas only to return with new customers.

Big picture view:

It’s all thanks to Troy’s Automation Alley and it has worked to the tune of $2.3 billion in new business.

This story starts in the middle with, well, the middle man.

“We want to see our children stay here like everybody,” said Tom Kelly, the CEO of Automation Alley. “And we have to create vibrant communities. One of the backbones of Michigan is manufacturing.”

Kelly leads the team at Automation Alley in Troy. Think of them as the bridge that brings Michigan manufacturers directly to the customers.

“There are 12,000 manufacturers in Michigan, we have 4,000 as members,” he said.

He says they have a formula that is proven – and works.

“We take them to these foreign countries, we set up appointments with companies that want to buy their products, and we help them close the deals,” he said. “Since we started, we have generated over $2.3 billion dollars for small manufacturers.”

The two trips coming up with take ten of these small businesses to Querétaro, Mexico in February and Paris, France in June of next year.

“By the way, here’s the kicker, it’s actually subsidized by the State of Michigan,” Kelly said. “So we can cover up to half of your travel expenses on these trade missions because guess what? It’s a huge win for the State of Michigan if you become a net exporter of your product to other countries.”

For those who may be thinking this is only a free trip – think again. Automation Alley has been putting on these trade missions for years.

“We have the relationships, we know who they should be meeting with, and people are people all over the world,” Kelly said.

Those relationships usually lead to lasting relationships, he added.

Automation Alley is an non-profit funded through donor businesses who know the value of Michigan manufacturing.

While the trade missions are important, it’s not all the only thing that happens here.

“Trade missions are only twice a year,” Kelly said. “We have programming all year long that helps you understand Artificial Intelligence,  help you make a choice  on what robot should I buy. What kind of systems do I need to consider, what are my peers doing in manufacturing that I can emulate and be successful like them.

“All of these things are available free of charge to all 12,000 manufactures in the State of Michigan.”

If you’d like to find out how to sign up your business to take advantage of the trade missions or other programs, just visit automationalley.com

Warren ― Warren Mayor Lori Stone touted the city’s new defense alliance with Sterling Heights, infrastructure improvements and progress in constructing affordable housing, among other achievements, in her annual State of the City address Tuesday evening.

Stone mentioned the Arsenal Alliance, a regional economic development partnership that is focused on supporting and expanding the multi-billion-dollar defense industry in the two Macomb County cities. The Sterling Heights and Warren city councils approved the partnership in April.

“We are stronger together in growing military and defense assets, providing opportunities for manufacturing to adapt to a changing mobility landscape,” she said.

Stone, who was elected mayor in November 2023, gave her second State of the City address on Tuesday to a crowd of over 100 people at the Warren Community Center Auditorium. She shared the city’s achievements from the past year in economic development, infrastructure, parks and recreation, and other areas.

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – Michigan Wolverines head coach Sherrone Moore highlighted key player developments and preparations for the upcoming rivalry game against Michigan State.

It’s rivalry week as the Wolverines head to East Lansing to take on the Michigan State Spartans on Saturday (Oct. 25) inside Spartan Stadium.

Kickoff is at 7:30 p.m. on NBC.

Moore praised offensive lineman Blake Frazier, who recently had his first extended playing time.

“Really proud of the player he’s become,” Moore said.

Frazier has gained significant weight since joining the team, now around 300 pounds, and has shown steady progression through extra reps and experience.

Fourth down conversion

On the team’s struggles converting fourth downs this season, Moore emphasized execution.

“We lost a block on one play that could have been a touchdown, and we dropped a pass,” Moore said. “We’ve got to fix that as a team.”

Injuries

Discussing injuries, Moore noted some players might return to practice soon but will be evaluated week by week.

When asked about Evan Link’s injury, Moore said he thought he was lost for the season, but he and the team are expecting him back this season.

He said Frazier will start, and Brady Norton will play some offensive tackle while moving guys around accordingly.

Moore also said star running back Justice Haynes has been practicing and could possibly play this weekend.

Michigan State week

Moore also spoke about the significance of Michigan State week, especially for younger players.

“We talk about our rivalries during training camp, but we’ll definitely re-educate the team on what this game means,” Moore said, referencing the Paul Bunyan Trophy and the rivalry’s history.

Reflecting on his own introduction to the rivalry, Moore recalled a memorable 2018 game involving Devin Bush, who was being held back by Moore as he stomped on the Spartans’ logo while trying to fight the whole team.

Moore also talked about the weather conditions, as all four seasons, as it rained, snowed, got cold, and was sunny, all in the same game.

When asked about Michigan State’s key players like quarterback Aidan Chiles and receiver Nick Marsh, Moore highlighted their explosiveness and route-running skills, stressing the need for a strong defensive plan.

Moore acknowledged the physicality and intensity of the rivalry, advising players to focus on execution rather than distractions.

“You’re not going to win the game talking,” Moore said.

Bryce Underwood

On freshman quarterback Bryce Underwood’s performance, Moore praised his ability to evade pressure and make special plays.

“He does some things you can’t coach,” Moore said.

Moore also discussed the growth of the linebacking unit, highlighting standout performances and the young talent’s impact.

He emphasized the team’s urgency moving forward.

“Complacency will take away your edge,” Moore said. “We’ve got to stay hungry throughout this process.”

With the Michigan State game approaching, Moore remains focused on preparation and respect for the rivalry.

“Records don’t matter,” Moore said. “We’re going to get their best, and they’re going to get ours.”