The Michigan Opportunity
Sept. 2, 2026
Sandy K. Baruah, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Detroit Regional Chamber talks about Michigan’s economic future—and what it will take to compete, grow, and prosper in the decades ahead. Baruah brought a candid perspective on Michigan’s economic-development challenges and opportunities, from attracting investment and talent to strengthening education, infrastructure, manufacturing, and more. Plus, an overview of the Mackinac Policy Conference.
“We need to be very clear about how national policy is impacting Michigan businesses,” Baruah said. “It is a commentary on what the policies are around trade and tariffs in particular, has really put Michigan at a disproportionate disadvantage compared to many other states in the country.”