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Michigan Leaders Call for Active Stewardship

  //food-wine.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/20/michigan-leaders-call-for-active-stewardship.html
  Published in Food and Wine on Friday, February 20th 2026 at 11:38 GMT by inforum
      Locales: Michigan, UNITED STATES

Grand Rapids, MI - February 20, 2026 - A growing call for proactive engagement in shaping Michigan's future is resonating across the state, championed by leaders like Gerald Selthoffer, CEO of Inforum. Selthoffer's simple yet powerful statement - "I want to be part of taking care of our home - Michigan" - encapsulates a burgeoning sentiment that Michigan's potential resurgence hinges on a fundamental shift in perspective: from passive observation to active stewardship.

For years, many Michiganders have witnessed economic fluctuations, demographic shifts, and evolving industries with a sense of detachment. The feeling that individual or corporate actions wouldn't significantly alter the state's trajectory was pervasive. However, this attitude is demonstrably changing. A renewed sense of urgency and civic pride is emerging, fueled by the recognition that collective action is not just beneficial, but essential for sustained growth and prosperity.

Selthoffer's "homeownership" analogy is particularly insightful. It's not merely about owning property; it's about accepting responsibility for the well-being of the entire ecosystem - the environment, the economy, and the social fabric of the community. This extends beyond traditional notions of economic development. It demands a holistic approach that prioritizes sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity.

Beyond Business: A Multi-Sector Approach

Inforum, a West Michigan business forum dedicated to fostering change, has long advocated for collaborative solutions. Selthoffer emphasizes that a successful future for Michigan necessitates a unified front. This isn't simply a plea for businesses to be more philanthropic, but a call for a fundamental restructuring of how the public and private sectors interact. Businesses must move beyond short-term profits and invest in long-term solutions, focusing on workforce development, infrastructure improvements, and environmentally responsible practices.

The role of government is equally critical. Beyond providing essential services, state and local governments must create a regulatory environment that encourages innovation, attracts investment, and supports entrepreneurship. This requires streamlining bureaucratic processes, reducing unnecessary red tape, and fostering a culture of transparency and accountability.

Education, too, holds a pivotal position. Michigan's educational institutions need to adapt to the evolving needs of the 21st-century workforce. This includes expanding access to STEM education, promoting vocational training, and fostering lifelong learning opportunities. Universities and community colleges must collaborate with businesses to ensure that curricula align with industry demands, creating a pipeline of skilled workers ready to contribute to the state's economic growth.

Facing Difficult Choices and Embracing Innovation

Selthoffer acknowledges that achieving a significant comeback won't be easy. It requires "tough conversations and difficult choices." These might include addressing long-standing infrastructure deficits, tackling income inequality, and making strategic investments in emerging technologies. Avoiding these challenging discussions in favor of short-term political gains will ultimately hinder progress.

Innovation is central to this endeavor. Michigan has a rich history of innovation, from the automotive industry to advancements in manufacturing. However, maintaining this edge requires continued investment in research and development, fostering a culture of entrepreneurship, and attracting top talent from around the world. Areas like advanced manufacturing, clean energy, and biotechnology offer significant opportunities for growth and job creation.

A Rising Tide Lifts All Boats

The concept of shared responsibility underscores the idea that a thriving Michigan benefits everyone. A strong economy creates jobs, generates revenue, and improves the quality of life for all residents. A healthy environment protects natural resources and provides recreational opportunities. A vibrant community fosters social cohesion and civic engagement.

Selthoffer's vision is not about imposing a top-down solution, but about empowering individuals and organizations to take ownership of their communities. It's about fostering a sense of collective pride and shared purpose. It's about recognizing that each Michigander has a role to play in building a brighter future for the state. The time for passive observation is over; the time for active stewardship has arrived.