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Convergence Networks: Cybersecurity strategy for Michigan businesses

DRC: Chamber Joins Michigan for Responsible Data Centers Coalition

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Join the Chamber on Tuesday, April 14, for its third installment of the Small Business and Advocacy series to strengthen your business advocacy skills while building meaningful relationships that support long-term success.

Hear a discussion moderated by Brian J. Shoaf, the Chamber’s Vice President of Public Policy and Business Advocacy, featuring three small business advocates on how to navigate opportunities, build influence, and grow with confidence. Following the discussion, business owners can connect directly with organizations offering funding opportunities and specialized programs tailored to both emerging and established entrepreneurs to access practical tools and expert business guidance.

With less than a week to go, the Chamber’s 2026 State of the Region is quickly approaching, a must-attend moment for leaders looking to stay informed, connected, and prepared for what’s next for the regional and state economy.

This year’s program features a compelling keynote from Ron Insana, nationally recognized economic analyst and contributor, alongside Chamber Board members Dennis W. Archer Jr.Yasmeen Jasey, and Trevor Lauer, with BAMF Health’s Anthony Chang. Together, they will unpack what the data from the annual report reveals about the Region’s economic health and what it means for businesses.

 

Beyond the Bill is a rotating segment that features a Republican or Democrat Michigan Legislator for Detroit Regional Chamber members to get to know on a more personal level and highlight their legislative priorities for Michiganders.

This week, the Chamber is spotlighting Michigan Rep. Alabas Farhat (D-Dearborn), who shared his economic priorities for the state and advice for the leaders of tomorrow

Powering Progress: Google Plans Investments in Van Buren as Chamber Joins New Coalition  

Congratulations to Detroit Regional Chamber members Google and DTE Energy who have announced a strategic partnership to support a new Google data center, focusing on scaling clean energy and enhancing grid reliability.

Chamber stance: This collaboration illustrates how data center growth can be integrated with sustainability goals, providing the necessary foundation for the Region’s long-term competitiveness. The Chamber applauds forward-thinking partnerships like this that ensure Michigan remains a premier destination for global innovation.   

Additionally, the Chamber has joined the Michigan for Responsible Data Centers coalition, a new cross-sector coalition launched March 19 to address a significant information gap regarding the state’s digital infrastructure.  

Related | Crain’s Detroit Business: New Coalition Aims to Combat ‘Misinformation’ About Data Centers Facing Local Resistance

The Chamber remains focused on fostering a policy environment that ensures Michigan is a top-tier destination for 21st century infrastructure and innovations.  

Ballmer Group Invests $1.5M in State-Led Metro Detroit Financial Literacy Push

The Michigan Department of Treasury announced the launch of the Mi Money Matters Financial Empowerment Initiative, the largest financial literacy campaign ever undertaken in metro Detroit.

The effort is being rolled out in partnership with the Ballmer Group, who is investing $1.5 million to launch the campaign, and leaders across Wayne, Oakland, and Macomb counties, including the Chamber.

The House and the Senate reached an agreement after months of squabbling over what lawmaker would receive the public act to extend Michigan’s involvement in the interstate medical licensure compact. The Chamber advocated for this strong, bipartisan solution. Read more.

Senators voted in broad bipartisan support of a proposed change of the state’s primary election date from August to May, a move that supporters have said would put the state more in line with others. Read more.

Michigan for Responsible Data Centers, a coalition that hopes to provide Michiganders with access to accurate information they believe is lacking surrounding the data center industry, launched Thursday. Read more.

Bills to mandate LETRS training for all Michigan teachers and teacher preparation programs didn’t clear a House panel this week. However, after initial stakeholder conversations and substitutes adopted, sponsors are optimistic they can hit the ground running when lawmakers return from spring break. Read more.

An ideologically diverse group spanning union leaders to business advocates said they are joining the effort to encourage a no vote on the Constitutional Convention question set to appear before voters in November. Read more.

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