OPPORTUNITY
Michigan has the engineering and manufacturing talent and expertise to solve some of the defense manufacturing industry's toughest problems. From ground vehicles to alternative fuels to high-tech polymers and coatings, Michigan businesses are well positioned to provide equipment and materials to safeguard the men and women in our armed forces.
Each year, the federal government spends between $400 billion-$800 billion on defense. Approximately $4 billion comes to Michigan. However, much of that income is outsourced, leaving roughly $1 billion in Michigan to fuel our economy and provide jobs. The Michigan Defense Contract Coordination Center (DC3) was created to bring more federal contracts and dollars to Michigan-based companies. DC3's goal is to double the number of defense contracts and the annual defense dollars coming to Michigan by 2010.
The DC3 and Michigan's Procurement Technical Assistance Centers (PTACs) work together by matching the capabilities of Michigan entrepreneurs, companies and researchers with federal contract opportunities.
NEXT STEPS
There are two paths: one for companies with existing products and services, and one for companies with new technology. As the Department of Defense (DOD) becomes increasingly more disconnected from mainstream technology, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation'sSM (MEDC) DC3 program is helping to connect the product development community with mainstream technology and helping to connect key defense supply centers that purchase over 550,000 parts with Michigan companies. DC3 teams focus on large contracts with multiple subcontract opportunities and work with the PTACs to assemble Michigan suppliers.
The PTACs are the frontline of the DC3. Last year, PTACs helped Michigan companies win over $300 million in contracts. PTACs offer one-on-one business counseling and seminars, conferences, customized training, and most importantly, they find leads. PTACs prepare Michigan businesses to compete for government contracts and educate them regarding opportunities, requirements and the process of becoming successful government contractors.
To learn more about the defense industry, consult the resources below. If you would like to pursue this opportunity, please email your contact information and any additional questions or information that may be helpful in providing assistance to diversification@michigan.org.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES
Michigan Defense Contract Coordination Center (DC3)
The DC3 strategically connects defense buyers and prime contractors with Michigan's capable supply chain.
MichiganAdvantage.org/dc3
National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA)
The NDIA is a trade association that provides a forum for the interchange of ideas between the government and industry to resolve problems of joint concern. The association's mission is to provide cutting-edge technology and superior weapons, equipment, training and support for both the soldier and the first responder.
ndia-mich.org