Whether your business is dependent on abundant clean water or is a provider of water solution technologies or services…Michigan has a lot of unique advantages. To begin your engagement with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) for alternative/renewable energy projects please fill out our automated questionnaire.

Business Opportunities in Michigan's Water Sector

Surrounded by over 87,340 mi² of freshwater in our Great Lakes, with abundant inland lakes, rivers and groundwater reservoirs, Michigan is truly the nation's freshwater state, given that it's the only state entirely within the Great Lakes Basin.  Water is integral to the past, present, and future economic vitality of Michigan - providing source water for our manufacturing and agricultural industries, transport for shipping our nation's goods and a resource for recreation and tourism.  It is the key feature, and most precious resource, of our beautiful landscape, our history and our quality of life.

Michigan's unique assets and resources provide market opportunities to research, develop, manufacture and deploy a wide range of technologies and processes to address almost any freshwater issue, and, hence, make our state the ideal beta-site for vetting, testing and integrating innovative water technologies with targeted end-users, and the best platform for entering the North American market.

The Water Industry in Michigan

The mix of water-using facilities in Michigan is complex, with withdrawals that range from small residential, to exceptionally large withdrawals in major sectors like thermoelectric power generation, self-supplied industrial, irrigation, agriculture and public water supply.  Michigan is also home to a wide range of companies that provide water solution technologies and services that facilitate the use, transport, treatment, conservation and restoration of our water resources. Together, these water-related industries shape and support the commerce and character of the state.

What defines Michigan's Water Sector
Michigan has a plentiful and varied set of water-dependent industrial, agricultural, commercial and residential consumers. The state's diverse water resources and end users provide a unique opportunity for companies to test, develop and perfect new products and technologies here that can eventually be applied and exported to markets throughout the United States, and to the world.

Who are Michigan's Water Users
Water-using industries of particular relevance in Michigan include manufacturing, mining, agriculture, pulp and paper, food processing, primary metal production, power generation, chemical manufacturing, and recreation. For information related to Michigan Water Use and Withdrawal, visit the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Web site .

Regulatory and Permitting Authorities
Michigan has numerous state and local agencies with regulatory and/or permitting authorities over activities which affect water use, quality and water levels. These organizations oversee a broad range of water planning and regulation activities related to the protection of water quality, water supply, coastal shorelands and bottomlands and human health. At the local level, cities and counties are involved in numerous activities for managing water quality and water supply. Michigan is the only state in the U.S. with elected Drain Commissioners who are responsible for the construction, operation and maintenance of designated county drains. The Drain Commissioner ensures that drainage districts are managed to provide:  adequate drainage for the protection of property; appropriate flood control infrastructure; and protection against contamination of the surface waters of the county.

Water and Sewer Costs in Michigan
Michigan's water and sewer rates vary by location, user type and volume used/discharged. In some areas, water and sewer rates are combined. Water and sewer rates are generally very competitive with national prices, making Michigan an ideal place to locate your water-dependent business. 

Michigan welcomes companies with technologies and services that help to monitor and reduce water use and improve efficiency for domestic, municipal, commercial and industrial users. There are ample opportunities to develop, test and market such services, as well as chances to develop collaborative partnerships with university researchers, community water providers and industrial water users.

How can we help your Water-Related Business Develop and Grow?

Freshwater is a primary driver of Michigan's economy.  Michigan is transforming our economy into one that expands and improves our existing water-dependent industries, and provides opportunities for the creation of specialized industries related to water conservation, quality and transport technologies, wind energy production, pollution remediation and eco-tourism.

To discuss your water-related business needs with MEDC, begin by filling out our automated questionnaire.