Oakland County Economic Development completed a tourism strategic plan with the aim of attracting more visitors to the county’s many attractions and generating economic activity in the region.

February 2026  |  Top Stories:

Data Corner: American Community Survey  |  MMTC Manufacturing Insights and Innovation Expo  |  February Tech Collaboration Event  |  Solarize OC  |  Project DIAMOnD Digital Transformation Center  |  The Great Lakes Data, AI & Analytics Summit  |  Main Street America Fall Coordinators Meeting  |  Tourism/Attraction Strategic Plan  |  February Planners Gathering  |  Oakland County Designated a Bird City  |  Michigan Needs Assessment Survey  |  Race to Talent Event  |  Support a Hero Be a Hero Campaign | March Veterans Resource Fair

A Message From Sean Carlson

Oakland County Deputy Executive

Dear Colleagues,    Happy New Year and Black History Month! It’s hard to believe that this Economic Development Newsletter is now entering its sixth year. As I look over our latest stories, I can’t help but notice themes consistent with the values of Oakland County Economic Development as a whole. Namely, creating new opportunities for Oakland County communities, businesses and residents helping them to grow in prosperity and advance toward a better future—while preserving our culture and history as a county. I am proud to announce the continuation of the highly popular Oakland County Tech Collaboration Edu2B Event Series. These events focus on bringing together business and education leaders to learn from one another and forge partnerships. I also encourage you to save the date for The Great Lakes Data, AI & Analytics Summit, happening on April 9, 2026 at the Troy Marriott. Thanks to our Veterans Services team, we have also been able to help provide a better future for our local servicemen and women. At the Veterans Resource Fair happening on March 26, Oakland County veterans will have the opportunity to learn about all the well-deserved benefits available to them. Finally, I want to give a special thanks to the Oakland County Planning & Local Business Development team for their dedication to preserving the wildlife and culture of Oakland County, all while improving the quality of life of our residents. Read more on how Michigan Audubon has designated Oakland County as a Bird City Michigan community. Another big win for our planning team is the completion of the Tourism Strategic Plan. We owe the team a huge thank you for all the dedication and time spent on this important new project, especially Ryan Dividock, John Bry, Paula Harrington, Bret Rasegan, and Kristen Wiltfang. In the article below, you can learn more about the importance of Tourism in Oakland County and how it contributes to overall Economic Development.

Data Corner

2024 American Community Survey 5-Year Data

The U.S. Census Bureau has recently released 2024 American Community Survey 5-year data. The American Community Survey (ACS) is an ongoing survey that provides vital demographic and socioeconomic information on a yearly basis about an area’s population. Information from the ACS survey generates data that helps guide policymakers and informs how federal, state, and local funds are spent each year.

The ACS releases data annually as 1-year estimates and 5-year estimates. The ACS 1-year estimates are only available for areas with a population of at least 65,000 residents while the 5-year estimates rely on 60 months of collected data to provide estimates for all areas, regardless of the size of their population.

Below are some highlights from the recent ACS 5-year estimates for Oakland County:

• 1,279,825 – Oakland County’s 2024 population, up 7,531 residents from 2023, the largest growth among all counties statewide
• 530,460 – Number of households in Oakland County in 2024, an increase of 1,779 since 2023
• 28.8% – Percent of Oakland County residents (age 25 and over) with at least a bachelor’s degree
• 62,494 – The number of Oakland County residents (at least 1 year old) who lived in outside the county a year ago – 37,578 of those residents moved to Oakland County from elsewhere in Michigan; 14,708 moved from another state; 10,208 moved from abroad
  
  

Top Ten Most Populous Counties in Michigan
2024 American Community Survey

Michigan Counties with Largest Population Change
2023-2024 American Community Survey

Households by County
2024 American Community Survey

Source: U.S. Census Bureau, American Community Survey 5-yr estimates (2024)

Business Development

MMTC’s Manufacturing Insights and Innovation Expo February 9, 2026 | 8:30–11:30 AM The Mint at Michigan First Conference Center 27000 Evergreen Road | Lathrup Village Register for Free at: education.the-center.org/explore/manufacturing-insights-innovation-1 This event will bring together approximately 100 manufacturing leaders from the region to hear the findings from our Manufacturing Insights Survey and engage in discussions around the opportunities and challenges facing Michigan manufacturers. We would be honored to have you join us and we would also greatly appreciate your help in sharing this invitation with any manufacturers in your networks who may benefit from attending. Event Purpose: The expo will highlight key survey findings, showcase available resources and partners, and share MMTC’s roadmap for supporting manufacturers statewide. The goal is to inform, connect, and equip leaders to strengthen competitiveness and resilience across Michigan’s manufacturing sector. AGENDA: 8:30 AM – Check-In, Networking & Breakfast 9:30 AM – Welcome & Opening Remarks Heidi Devroy, CEO, Prosper-Tech Machine & Tool   Announcement of Manufacturing Insights Survey Raffle Winner 9:40 AM – From Data to Direction: Results from the Manufacturing Insights Survey Ingrid Tighe, President, MMTC 10:00 AM – From Shop Floor to Supply Chain: Practical AI That Actually Works in Manufacturing Josh Johnston, Lean Program Manager, MMTC Cut through the AI hype and see how manufacturers are using AI today—from secure on-prem assistants that give teams instant answers to tools that drive smarter supply chain decisions. 10:20 AM – Break 10:25 AM – Building a Stronger Manufacturing Future in Michigan Moderator: Ingrid Tighe Panelists: Pat Ebbing, President, Detroit Edge Nick Wasserman, President, Pinnacle Technology Group, Inc.  What do Michigan manufacturers need to remain competitive and resilient? In this panel, manufacturing CEOs will discuss key trends revealed in MMTC’s 2025 Manufacturing Insights Survey and how those findings are shaping their priorities for the future. 10:55 AM – Closing Remarks

Meet with Innovators in the Largest Tech Ecosystem in the State at Our Upcoming Edu2B Event Presented by the Oakland County Tech Collaboration February 27, 2026 | 8:30-11:30 AM Oakland University The Oakland County Tech Collaboration is a bold alliance that is building on Oakland County’s reputation as an economic powerhouse — uniting over 60,000 professionals across 4,000 high-tech firms to create jobs, spark innovation and promote collaboration. Register Today: Edu2B.eventbrite.com

Want to Reduce Your Electric Bills and Protect Your Business Against Increasing Energy Prices?

Solarize OC is an initiative of Oakland County and the Great Lakes Renewable Energy Association that connects businesses to solar education and resources, free of sales pressure. There will be multiple events spread throughout Oakland County communities in 2026.  Events cover information about solar energy, guidance on claiming the 30% solar tax credit, expert Q&A, and an opportunity for a 5-15% group-buy discount. Learn more and register for the Troy area Solarize Event at: oakgov.com/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/9860/3234

The Oakland County Board of Commissioners Economic Development & Infrastructure (EDI) Subcommittee Visit to the Project DIAMOnD Digital Transformation Center

Ray Putz and Michael Abdallah of Oakland County Economic Development along with Eric Davis and Pavan Muzumdar of Automation Alley hosted members of the Oakland County Board of Commissioners (BOC) EDI subcommittee at the Digital Transformation Center (DTC) in Auburn Hills. The BOC members in attendance were Chairman David Woodward, Commissioner Bob Hoffman, Commissioner Gwen Markham, and Commissioner Yolonda Smith Charles.  The group toured the training classroom and the 3D printing cells that are temperature and humidity controlled. The Commissioners were able to see parts being manufactured using additive manufacturing technology and now have a deeper understanding of how Project DIAMOnD Phase 2 operates.

Learn more about Project DIAMOnD at: ProjectDiamond.org

SAVE THE DATE: The Great Lakes Data, AI & Analytics Summit April 9, 2026 at Troy Marriott This is a one-day event for analytics, IT, and business professionals that includes keynotes from industry experts, leadership panel discussions, case study sessions, vendor software demonstrations, and plenty of networking opportunities. Attendees will learn about the latest analytics software, best practices, and success stories to help them capitalize on data and analytics strategies, data governance, and extracting business value out of your data assets. This is the only event of its kind in the Midwest, so don’t miss out on this valuable learning opportunity. Get more details here: witinc.com/great-lakes-data-ai-analytics-summit

Community Development

Main Street Oakland County Leadership Participates in Main Street America Fall Coordinators Meeting in Billings, Montana

Preserved historic homes in Red Lodge, Montana (left); Historic mine just outside of Red Lodge, Montana (right)

Main Street Oakland County (MSOC) is a national Main Street coordinating program with 30 participating county communities.  This past fall, MSOC joined 42 other coordinating program peer leaders from across the U.S. in Billings, Montana—to share best practices, strengthen partnerships, and explore innovative strategies for downtown revitalization and commercial corridor development.

MSOC was represented by Program Coordinator John Bry and Assistant Program Coordinator Annaka Norris, who participated in a multi-day agenda focused on the evolving challenges and opportunities facing downtowns and historic commercial districts. Sessions explored topics including economic resilience; the role of Main Street programs in advancing equitable, place-based economic development; and program advocacy. The group also completed a benchmarking visit to the Montana Main Street community of Red Lodge.

Red Lodge is largely dependent on being a weekend destination for recreation, as the community has many natural and historic amenities, including an abandoned mine just outside of town.  Their Main Street program depends primarily on very committed volunteers.

The Fall Coordinators Meeting also provided valuable opportunities for peer learning and national networking, allowing participants to exchange ideas with colleagues working in communities of all sizes—from rural towns to urban centers. Discussions emphasized how coordinating programs can better support local Main Street organizations through technical assistance, capacity building, and data-driven approaches aligned with the Main Street Four Point Approach®.

Participation in this national meeting reinforces MSOC’s ongoing commitment to staying at the forefront of downtown revitalization practices and ensuring that Oakland County communities benefit from proven tools, emerging trends, and national expertise. Insights gained from the conference will help inform future programming, strengthen local partnerships, and enhance the support provided to the  Main Street communities throughout the county.

Tourism/Attraction Strategic Plan Completed

Stakeholders at Visioning Workshop

Following the Steering Committee’s review, the Tourism/Attraction Strategic Plan is now available at visitoaklandcounty.com/tourism-attraction-5-year-plan/

BACKGROUND
Beginning in January 2025, Oakland County’s Department of Economic Development launched the County’s first tourism and attraction strategic planning process to:

• Quantify the value and impact of tourism in the County
• Identify options for the County’s tourism brand messaging, positioning, and visual identity
• Chart actionable strategies to attract new visitors, residents, businesses, and employees; and extend visitor stays by enhancing experiences, products, mobility and marketing
• Determine sustainable models for tourism development and management

During the research phase, it was determined by consulting firm, Tourism Economics, that direct visitor spending in Oakland County generated a total economic impact of $4.9 billion in 2024, including indirect and induced impacts. This total economic impact sustained nearly 41,000 jobs, $1.4 billion in income, and generated $426 million in state and local tax revenues.  For a deeper look into the data and insights uncovered, review the Tourism Diagnostic Report at: visitoaklandcounty.com/strategic-plan/destination-diagnostic/

“We don’t always think about Oakland County as a tourist destination even though we all know and appreciate the obvious attractions in our midst from the Detroit Zoo to Pine Knob Music Theatre to Cranbrook’s Science Center and gardens to Meadow Brook Hall,” said Oakland County Executive David Coulter. “We know about the hidden gems, too—the 59,000 acres of public recreation land, 1,400 lakes and vast array of dining and shopping choices. There is so much for visitors to explore in Oakland County and getting the word out about all of our amazing attributes is the goal behind the development of this tourism strategic plan.”

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Thank you to the Tourism/Attraction Project Steering Committee—representing business, government and non-profit sectors:  Erika Bassett, executive director, Birmingham Shopping District; Tony Cook, interim COO, Oakland Thrive; Laura Dodd, deputy director, Economic Development, Oakland County; Carol Egbo, historian, Oakland County Parks & Recreation; Jim Gray, COO, M1 Concourse; John Hensler, trail manager, Michigan Air Line Trail; Rick Hammil, supervisor, Highland Township; Randi Hamilton, chief experience officer, Detroit Zoo; Ken Hayward, executive advisor, Community & Government Relations, Visit Detroit; Matt Jenkins, executive director, Ortonville Downtown Development Authority; George Kullis, supervisor, Holly Township; Kim Marrone, economic development and planning director, Oak Park; Tim McGrane, former CEO, M1 Concourse; Pat McKay, museum manager, City of Rochester Hills; Yolanda Smith Charles, commissioner, Oakland County Board of Commissioners; Kristi Trevarrow, executive director, Rochester Downtown Development Authority; and Paul Zelenak, city manager, South Lyon.

The consultant team was composed of Think Place Agency (Lead Project Manager/Tourism Development Expert), BLKDOG (Brand and Marketing Expert), and Tourism Economics (Economist).

The Oakland County team from the Planning & Local Business Development Division included Project Leader Ryan Dividock, John Bry, Paula Harrington, Bret Rasegan, and Kristen Wiltfang.

Questions can be emailed to planninggroup@oakgov.com

February’s Planners Gathering Covers Oakland County Food Landscape Study and Southfield Food Waste Pilot Program

Make Food Not Waste

The Oakland County Food Landscape Study and Southfield Food Waste Pilot Program are the focus of the next free and virtual Planners Gathering, February 17, 10-11 a.m.

Oakland County Health & Human Services’ recently completed and comprehensive Food Landscape Study examined the county’s local food system, food access, and food security.  An overview of the key findings will be presented, including the enormous volume of food waste going into landfills.

In addition, the City of Southfield will provide an update on their ongoing food waste demonstration project, led by the nonprofit Make Food Not Waste.

Speakers are Amanda Woods, public health educator, Oakland County Health and Human Services; and Stephanie Osborn, program director, Make Food Not Waste.

Advance registration is required and free at eventbrite.com/e/planners-gathering-oakland-county-food-landscape-study-tickets-1980137982008?aff=oddtdtcreator

With any questions or suggestions for future Planners Gatherings, please contact Jim Schafer, Oakland County, at schaferj@oakgov.com

NOTE:  All Planners Gatherings are organized and recorded by the Planning, Zoning, and Land Use unit and available at oakgov.com/community/community-development/planning-services/planning-events-trainings/planners-gathering

Oakland County Designated a Bird City

Michigan Audubon presents Oakland County Parks Commissioners, Oakland County staff, and leaders from Oakland Bird Alliance with the Bird City Michigan recognition certificate.

In January, Michigan Audubon designated Oakland County as a Bird City Michigan community.  Bird City—initially created by the American Bird Conservancy and Environment for the Americas with support from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service—is a science-based program that recognizes communities for their bird-friendly actions. The program encourages like-minded organizations, such as municipalities and conservation groups, to work together to create healthier, more welcoming environments for birds and people. "The leaders of the Oakland Bird Alliance (OBA) and Oakland County are helping to set a new standard for Michigan communities, demonstrating that when leading conservation organizations and municipalities share assets and work together, they can create tangible, lasting habitats that showcase the sustainable life birds and residents deserve," says Kathleen Mennillo, CEO of Michigan Audubon.  The OBA is a chapter of Michigan Audubon and the National Audubon Society. Bird City recognizes communities that are committed to bird conservation and habitat preservation by highlighting management actions and education efforts. Bird City goals focus on: Conservation—protecting native bird populations through habitat preservation, invasive species control and responsible land use Education—raising public awareness about birds, their ecological roles and the threats they face Community Engagement—fostering community pride and involvement in bird-friendly practices Sustainability—encouraging municipalities to adopt environmentally responsible policies that benefit both birds and people To pursue the Bird City designation, the county formed a team of municipal leaders from Economic Development, Parks and Recreation, and the Board of Commissioners alongside the OBA.  Oakland County Parks is working to restore much of its 7,000 acres of parkland into a sanctuary for the health and well-being of the county’s 1.3 million residents. These restoration efforts showcase exactly how a community can solve the problem of habitat loss by focusing on habitat, threats, public engagement, and sustainability. "Oakland County's parks and natural areas are part of what makes this region such an attractive place to live and visit. The Bird City designation underscores that protecting habitat isn't just good for wildlife—it also strengthens our local economy," says Oakland County Parks Director Chris Ward. "Birding and nature tourism bring visitors to our trails, lakes, and communities, supporting small businesses and outdoor recreation across the county. We recognize that healthy natural spaces are essential to healthy people. Every time residents plant a native tree, visit a park, or simply pause to listen for birdsong, they are investing in their own wellbeing and the vitality of their community." Incorporated in 1905, Michigan Audubon is Michigan's oldest conservation organization.  They launched Bird City Michigan in January 2025. To learn more about the Oakland County Bird City designation and upcoming events, please visit: birdcity.org/michigan/oakland-county

OAKLAND BIRD ALLIANCE (OBA) oaklandbirdalliance.org/ More than 100 species of birds have been observed in Oakland County. Discover the incredible diversity of birds that Oakland County and OBA are working to protect by exploring this gallery checklist of species seen across the county.  The OBA provides expert-led interpretive walks and field trips across Oakland County and beyond. These are not just sightseeing tours; they are mobile classrooms where residents learn to identify species, understand complex migratory patterns, and recognize the specific habitat requirements birds need to survive. To see a list of upcoming events, visit: oaklandbirdalliance.org/field-trips Because of the significant impact OBA volunteers have on bird conservation and community connections, Michigan Audubon awarded OBA the inaugural “Chapter of the Year” Award in September 2025.

Transit

Michigan Needs Assessment Survey: Express Your Opinion

Please share your opinion about the services needed for people with disabilities living in your community, if you are: A person with a disability (PWD) A friend, family member, or advocate of a PWD A service provider or educator working with a PWD An employer or HR personnel working with a PWD Take the survey online at: education.msu.edu/links/PE

Workforce Development

Join Us at Oakland County’s Next Race to Talent Event!

Learn about Registered Apprenticeship Programs and Related Technical Instruction – a critical complement to on-the-job training

There is more to a Registered Apprenticeship Program than just on-the-job training. Michigan’s 22,000 active apprentices also spend time in the classroom, learning skills specific to an occupation.

Join us on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, from 2:00-3:30 p.m. at Oakland Community College in Auburn Hills, for an introduction to the classroom training component of Registered Apprenticeship Programs, Related Technical Instruction (RTI), and how it can be customized to meet the instructional needs of your Program. OCC partners with a number of employers to provide classroom learning in a variety of fields, from advanced manufacturing and construction to health care, IT and education. Participants also will receive an overview of why Registered Apprenticeship Programs are more popular than ever, the steps involved in developing one with the help of an intermediary, and how Registered Apprenticeship Programs separate employers in their quest to build a talented workforce. Workshop Highlights: Overview of Registered Apprenticeship Programs and Oakland County Michigan Works! resources Related Technical Instruction: What you need to know with Oakland Community College Panel discussion featuring employers and active Registered Apprentices Race to Talent awards presentation to employers with successful Registered Apprenticeship Programs Register in advance at: events.resultsathand.com/mwa/4032/ After completing the registration form, you will receive a confirmation email.  Please save this information in your calendar appointment reminder. The Auburn Hills campus of Oakland Community College is located at 2900 Featherstone Road. This meeting is taking place in the G Building, room 240 (use parking lots 14 & 8).

Veterans Services

Oakland County Veterans’ Services and Oakland Thrive Launch Campaign to Aid Local Veterans

Oakland County Veterans’ Services, in partnership with Oakland Thrive, has launched the “Be a Hero, Support a Hero” campaign, calling on businesses, organizations and individuals to financially stand beside those who have served in the United States armed forces. 

To donate, visit oaklandthrive.org/SupportAHero or call (248) 858-8016. Every dollar will go directly to support veterans’ transportation, resource fairs and food distribution events. 

“As grant funding for veterans’ programs is getting cut, this is the time to come together as a community to ensure our Oakland County veterans are supported, provided resources and treated with the dignity and respect they deserve,” said County Executive David Coulter. “With community support, we can ensure no veteran in Oakland County goes hungry or struggles to access the resources they’ve earned.” 

Local businesses and major corporations can also make a difference through sponsorship opportunities ranging from $10,000 to $50,000 w for digital billboards, newspaper and streaming advertisements, radio or event engagement. 

• Oakland County Veterans’ Services made a significant impact on the lives of local veterans in 2024: Hosting seven veterans resource fairs which connected more than 2,500 attendees to earned benefits
• Distributing more than $242,000 in Meijer food cards and 2,500 food boxes
• Providing 10,000-plus free rides for medical appointments, family visits and essential errands
• Holding five large-scale food distribution events, serving 2,000 veterans facing food insecurity

To learn more about Oakland County Veterans’ Services, visit: oakgov.com/government/veterans

Join Us at our Upcoming Oakland County Veterans Resource Fair 

March 26, 2026  |  9:00 AM - Noon
Novi Civic Center  |  45175 W 10 Mile Road Novi, MI 48375
Register at: tinyurl.com/yxw9brpj

All veterans and their families are welcome to attend and learn more about the benefits available to them, including housing counseling, career planning, training programs, information on community resources, and more.  

Questions? Contact:
veterans-services@oakgov.com | (248) 858-0785

Learn More at: oakgov.com/government/veterans/veteran-resource-fairs  

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