During the 2025 Detroit Policy Conference, panelists Ben Marchionna, Rishi Moudgil, Chris Rizik, and Jessica Robinson discussed Michigan’s economic growth, focusing on investment opportunities and the startup scene, moderated by Detroit News’ Daniel Howes. They highlighted the state’s strong engineering talent and improving business climate that attract national investors. Despite recent initiatives like the Michigan Invasion Fund, Marchionna noted Michigan lags behind states like Ohio and needs bolder strategies. Moudgil emphasized the importance of the skilled workforce, with many engineers aspiring to build businesses in Michigan, while Robinson pointed out new fields emerging beyond traditional sectors.