After receiving a great education from our universities here in Michigan, too many young people move away because they cannot envision a future for themselves in Metro Detroit. Ensuring Michigan remains economically competitive in the 21st century requires creativity and ingenuity—qualities that have deep roots in our state. Shifting our economy from antiquated practices toward strategies that will move Michigan’s workforce into the future will be crucial to achieving prosperity here in the 40th District. I will be a vocal advocate in Lansing on behalf of our community for economic security for working families and will champion economic practices that will encourage young people to remain in Michigan long after graduation.
Local business owners deserve to have the tools they need to create jobs with strong wages and good benefits for Michigan’s families in our district. Money earned and spent in local businesses stays in our communities and helps our families thrive. Here’s my plan to foster small business growth in the 40th District:
- Create a small business and entrepreneurship services office in order to facilitate the creation and retention of small business jobs in the state
- Increase support for small businesses through the Office of Talent and Economic Development, including grants for entrepreneurs, help for startup companies, and minority business development
- Give small businesses preference in state procurement by requiring a percentage of contracts be set aside for businesses that meet the definition of small business
- Support funding for small business owners to buy into a secure retirement savings plan at the state level