MARQUETTE – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced the Michigan Maritime Strategy, a first-of-its-kind, 10-year-plan designed to unlock economic growth and create good-paying jobs across Michigan’s multi-billion-dollar maritime industry. The strategy provides a clear roadmap for attracting new investments, fostering innovation, and strengthening Michigan’s water-based economy all while protecting the precious natural resources that define the Great Lakes State.  

“Michigan is prepared to lead the future of maritime innovation while protecting the waters that define us,” said Governor Whitmer. “The Michigan Maritime Strategy is a long-term plan for us to create good-paying local jobs and attract cutting-edge investments while protecting our Great Lakes, which contain 21% of the world’s fresh surface water. Because of our unique natural resources, we have an incredible opportunity to harness them to grow our economy and an awesome responsibility to safeguard them for future generations of Michiganders. With this new strategy, we will do both, ensuring our waters remain a source of pride and prosperity for generations to come.” 

“The Michigan Maritime Strategy underscores our commitment to protecting the Great Lakes while driving sustainable economic growth,” said EGLE Director Phil Roos. “By reducing pollution and harmful emissions and investing in cleaner energy, modern infrastructure, and innovative ports and vessels, we can strengthen Michigan’s maritime sector and create good-paying jobs. Environmental stewardship and economic progress go hand in hand as we chart a course for the future.”