University Center for Regional Economic Innovation

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REI Update for December 7, 2012

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Announcements

REI Co-Learning Plan in Action!

The Microenterprise Network of Michigan has partnered with Connect Michigan and the Michigan Rural Council to launch a project providing free technical assistance to four communities interested in promoting economic development and growth through increased broadband and technology adoption and use among local businesses. Proposals are due by 5:00pm on Monday, December 10th. Apply online here!

Michigan's Economic Accomplishments

In celebration of the holidays, REI would like to celebrate Michigan's economic accomplishments towards a brighter future!

• Income growth in Michigan was 8th best in the nation! According to Comerica Bank's Michigan Economic Activity Index, the economy has reached a 10-year high, making Michigan the comeback state. Additionally, the 2012 Top States for Doing Business Survey ranked Michigan 4th nationally in leading economic recovery!
• GDP growth is the 6th best in the nation and the unemployment rate has dropped 4.9 points! According to the Department of Technology, Management & Budget's report, the state's labor force grew by 7,000 over the month!
• General Motors is adding 1,500 jobs in Michigan and a large percentage of those jobs will be for recent college graduates!
• Michigan is increasing exporting opportunities to China, meaning more jobs here!

REI Is Thankful For...

• Keynote speaker Christina Keller and all of the Co-Learning Plan Presenters at the 2012 Summit for providing the attendees with an informative presentation!
• The entire REI staff including the project team and research assistants for all their hard work!

And Finally...

Happy Holidays to Our REI Network Members!

Recognition of New Members

We would like to welcome the newest additions to the REI Network:

• Dave Ivan
• Laura Leavitt
• Wendy Richardson
• Tricia Llewellyn
• Betsey Merkel

We would also like to recognize the new additions to the REI Consultative Panel:

• Jeannine La Prad
• Britany Affolter-Caine
• Naheed Huq
• Jonathan Leinonen
• Steven Weiland
• Sam Carter
• Gary Heidel
• Mike Polzin

Social Media

Thank you to our REI members who have helped us reach over 410 followers on our Twitter feed, 200 members on our LinkedIn group, and over 600 on this ListServ.