Another One: 'Make It in Michigan' Strategy Delivers Even More National Accolades

As the state continues doubling down on its economic momentum, Michigan demonstrates consistency, growth in Top 10 ranking for Area Development’s Top States for Business

Michigan is making a splash in Area Development’s newly released 2025 Top States for Business rankings. The Great Lakes State is No. 1 for Water Availability, No. 3 for Climate Risk and Resilience and No. 10 overall, with additional Top 10 rankings in other key categories.

Area Development calls Michigan “a rising performer” in its annual rankings, citing strengths “within categories that matter most to consultants today: workforce development, energy infrastructure, site readiness, permitting and long-term resilience.” It noted that water availability and climate risk factors are “climbing the priority list for site selectors... with Great Lakes states seeing renewed interest from manufacturers looking to future-proof operations.”

In addition to leading the pack in Water Availability and Climate Risk and Resilience categories, Michigan ranked No. 7 in Site Readiness Programs and No. 10 in the Business Incentives Programs, Cooperative Local and State Government, Workforce Training Programs and Energy Availability categories.

“Michigan’s recognition as a Top 10 state for business by Area Development is proof that Team Michigan’s ‘Make It in Michigan’ economic development strategy is working and decisionmakers in the business and location selection worlds are taking notice of our momentum,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). “From our workforce training and site readiness to embracing our state’s natural resources, Michigan possesses the assets and collaborative spirit that matter most to companies making long-term physical and talent capital decisions. We are grateful to our elected officials for affording us the economic development programming, tools and support to execute this proven strategy.  Work remains and we will work to climb the rankings on behalf of every Michigander across our two peninsulas so that everyone knows they too can ‘Make It in Michigan.’”

Michigan's Economy in the Win Column

The Area Development rankings build on other recent accolades for Michigan’s strong economic momentum and the impact of the MEDC, including:

• A 6 ranking in CNBC’s Top States for Doing Business 2025 list, the highest Michigan has ranked since the list was launched and up three spots from the previous year
• Being named a top 10 state for business climate in Site Selection Magazine's annual Top State Business Climate Rankings, marking the third year in a row the state has risen on the list
• Six Excellence Awards and an Accredited Economic Development Organization designation for the MEDC from the International Economic Development Council in 2025, celebrating its work to support vibrant communities across the state, develop and retain talent and build a future where everyone can “Make It in Michigan”

Learn more about the “Make It in Michigan” strategy driving the state’s success.