FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 16, 2026
Contact: [email protected]
Gov. Whitmer Highlights New Report Ranking Michigan in Top States for Opportunity
LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Whitmer announced Michigan is among the top Opportunity-Rich States in the country, according to Business Facilities. As part of the publication’s 2025 State of the Year evaluations, states “with notable programs and successes” were recognized in its list of 15 Opportunity-Rich States. The other states making the list were Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Kentucky, Nevada, Ohio, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia and Wisconsin.
“In ranking after ranking, Michigan continues to show the world that we are open for business and on the move,” said Governor Whitmer. “Our vibrant communities, growing economy, and great quality of life make us the best place to live, work, and raise a family. Together, amidst a lot of uncertainty at the federal level, we’ll stay focused in Michigan on winning projects, investing in people, and building up places to grow our economy and ensure every Michigander can live a good life.”
“As business leaders and site selectors faced uncertainty throughout 2025 amidst an already evolving site selection landscape, these states are highlighted for their business-friendly environments, with assets and incentives to meet the needs of those businesses,” said Editorial Director Anne Cosgrove, Business Facilities.
This latest ranking builds on other recent accolades for the state of Michigan, including being ranked No. 4 nationally in Site Selection’s 2026 Workforce Development Rankings and second in the East North Central region. Michigan moved up two spots from the 2025 Regional Rankings, highlighting the state’s emphasis on workforce and talent development initiatives. Michigan was also ranked No. 6 nationally as a Top State for Business and No. 4 for cost of doing business by CNBC in July 2025.
“When we say Michigan is the home for Pure Opportunity, it’s more than words: it’s a key component of our ‘Make It in Michigan’ economic development strategy. This latest recognition from Business Facilities proves our efforts to create a business-friendly environment are recognized nationally,” said Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). “We are proud to be among the ‘Opportunity-Rich States’ and remain committed to putting in the work to continually enhance Team Michigan’s ability to help businesses of all sizes thrive and create employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for our people where they can build Pure Opportunity futures.”
Whether it’s our business-friendly climate or experienced workforce, Michigan is a force to be reckoned with in 2026 and beyond.
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