DETROIT ? More than 700 professionals networked with automotive suppliers and auto OEMs, engaged in meetings, and heard from Michigan leaders on July 22 at the Detroit Three Matchmaking Summit hosted by Pure Michigan Business Connect at Cobo Hall.
Governor Rick Snyder was the lunch keynote and spoke on continuing to strengthen the Michigan automotive industry. He also shared the importance of innovation and growing talent for these careers within the industry. He said it is not just about training, but also having these in-demand professionals stay in the state and contribute to the Michigan economy.
One panel discussion focused on purchasing featured members of the Big Three, while supplier workshops offered panels on how to improve business.
The event provided booths for suppliers, organizations, and Pure Michigan resources on the latest automotive technologies and business resources. Attendees confirmed their meeting schedules posted on the white boards outside a large hall, then filled the large room full of small meeting tables.
This is where the information sharing happened. It is in these pre-arranged buyer and supplier ?matchmaking sessions? that products were discussed, requirements gathered, and deals done. It is an informal way for the Big Three to gain access to many supplier resources in one day through this series of meetings.
In addition to the matchmaking meetings, the event showcased keynote messages from top auto and government leadership as well as educational business sessions.
Whether from a supplier or the Big Three, the day offered a valuable agenda of topics and networking relevant to the Michigan auto community.
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