Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, MBN was on the road at the Hudson’s site in Detroit, for this year’s Detroit Policy Conference, put on by the Detroit Regional Chamber. The event centered on the “New Leadership Era,” featuring discussions on the city’s future, economic development, and regional policy.
Watch Glenn Stevens, head of MichAuto discusses Michigan’s auto leadership, global competition, and why innovation must accelerate now in the YouTube video shared below:
This interview was with Glenn Stevens, head of MichAuto, and Chief Automotive and Innovation Officer of the Detroit Regional Chamber catching us up on things since we were together at CAR’s MBS in September, also in Detroit. MichAuto’s 2025 State of Automobility report underscores Michigan’s continued leadership in automotive and mobility — yet warns that global competitors, especially China, are gaining ground. Michigan must innovate to maintain its edge in EVs and advanced mobility technologies.
MichAuto is calling for urgent, coordinated action to keep Michigan competitive as the auto and mobility industry faces tech disruption, trade uncertainty, and shifting consumer demands. A December convening of industry leaders reinforced the need to innovate now.
MichAuto released its new State of Automobility report, urging diversification into AI, automation, and advanced tech. The group is actively advocating for USMCA stability, welcomed updated fuel economy standards for planning certainty, and elevated Michigan’s voice nationally and globally through policy, media, and leadership roles.
‘Detroit is Home’ for Tech Innovation and Investment
From left to right: Glenn Stevens Jr., André Gudger
Eccalon’s move to Detroit is already making an impact, driving “22nd-century” innovation, developing local talent, and strengthening the community.
Eccalon’s André Gudger, in conversation with MichAuto’s Executive Director, Glenn Stevens Jr., explained how Detroit’s people, partnerships, and purpose make it the perfect foundation for Eccalon’s vision and investment in the city’s future.
Read the Recap
2026 Detroit Policy Conference: A New Leadership Era
Recently, the 2026 Detroit Policy Conference convened business leaders, government officials, and community changemakers to drive meaningful conversations and actionable solutions for a more prosperous and equitable Detroit Region.
Held at The Department at Hudson’s, the Conference explored the leadership transitions underway and on the horizon for the Region and state and featured the bold, adaptive leaders at the helm.
Explore highlights from the Conference below.
Detroit’s New Era: Mayor Sheffield’s Future-Focused Leadership
Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield was attending the U.S. Conference of Mayors Winter Meeting in Washington, D.C., and was unable to attend the Conference. However, in a pre-recorded video, Sheffield emphasized that building strong partnerships between businesses and neighborhoods will remain at the heart of Detroit’s ongoing revitalization efforts.
Following her video remarks, Melvin “Butch” Hollowell, who is leading Mary Sheffield’s transition, took to the stage to discuss where the committees’ work stands and how the administration is progressing.
“The House is on Fire”: Solving Michigan’s Education Crises
Sen. Sarah Anthony (D-Lansing), Business Leaders for Michigan’s Jeff Donofrio, the Chamber’s Greg Handel, and University of Detroit Mercy’s Donald B. Taylor discussed Michigan’s challenges in K-12 performance and per capita income, emphasizing equity-centered policy and innovation.
Detroit’s First Word: Industry Leaders on Expanding Wayne County Transit
During a panel moderated by the Chamber’s Brian J. Shoaf, Wayne County Deputy Executive Assad I. Turfe and SMART’s Tiffany J. Gunter shared how they are changing the conversation around the expansion of transit in the Detroit Region.
Mike Duggan: Unity is Needed for Michigan to Succeed
During the Conference, Independent Gubernatorial Candidate Mike Duggan spoke about the inspiration behind his bid for governor and discussed the hot-button topics that Michigan’s next leader will need to address.
