Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program Expands Eligibility to Small Manufacturers Across Michigan

MAST-P opens access to manufacturers in all 83 counties seeking to strengthen operations and pursue opportunities in aerospace, defense, electric vehicles and advanced energy

TROY, Mich., Sept. 23, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Small manufacturers across Michigan can now access no-cost business support through the Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program (MAST-P), following an expansion of program eligibility from six counties to all 83 counties in the state.

Previously, eligible companies were required to be located in Oakland, Wayne, Macomb, St. Clair, Lapeer or Kent counties. The expanded eligibility opens the program to qualifying manufacturers throughout Michigan, to help small manufacturers strengthen their businesses, prepare for growth and diversify into new industries.

The MAST-P program is designed to help very small manufacturers with fewer than 10 employees who are connected to the internal combustion engine supply chain pursue opportunities beyond traditional automotive manufacturing. Participating companies can receive support as they evaluate and prepare to enter adjacent and growing industries including aerospace, defense, electric vehicles and advanced energy.

Companies accepted into MAST-P receive access to a coordinated network of partners, providing tailored support including:

• Technical and industry assistance to strengthen operations and evaluate new market opportunities
• Accounting and financial guidance to improve financial management, pricing, profitability and capital readiness
• Legal support to identify potential risks and compliance needs
• Capital preparation and connections to help companies pursue lending, investment and other funding opportunities

MAST-P is funded through the federal State Small Business Credit Initiative Investing in America Small Business Opportunity Program (SSBCI SBOP) and administered by MEDC on behalf of the Michigan Strategic Fund. The three-year initiative provides more than $9 million in funding to support small manufacturers as they adapt to changes across Michigan's automotive and advanced manufacturing economy.

Michigan manufacturers can learn more about the program, its qualifying criteria and apply by visiting automationalley.com/mast-p/.

About MAST-P

The Michigan Auto Supplier Transition Program (MAST-P) is a collaborative initiative led by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation in partnership with Automation Alley, Michigan Manufacturers Association, the Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center, the Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council and the University of Michigan Economic Growth Institute. The program supports very small Michigan suppliers as they transition to emerging manufacturing opportunities such as electric vehicle production, advanced aerial mobility and defense through coordinated technical assistance, financial guidance and education.

This project is supported, in whole or in part, by federal award number SSBCI-21034-0001 awarded to the Michigan Strategic Fund by the U.S. Department of the Treasury.

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state's marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan's economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Threads.

About Automation Alley

Automation Alley is a nonprofit technology business association and Digital Transformation Insight Center focused on driving the growth and success of businesses in Michigan and beyond through innovation and automation. With a global outlook and a regional focus, we foster a vibrant community of innovators, entrepreneurs and business leaders through opportunities for collaboration and learning. Our programs and services help businesses develop the skills and expertise needed to effectively jumpstart or accelerate digital transformation. By bringing together industry, academia and government, we aim to create a dynamic ecosystem that drives innovation and growth across Michigan.

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SOURCE Automation Alley