Oakland County Launches Tech Collaboration

Oakland County Launches Tech Collaboration

by | Apr 8, 2025 | Regional News

Oakland County Launches Tech Collaboration Featuring Keystone Companies to Strengthen Regional Innovation

Post Date:04/08/2025 2:15 PM
  • The Oakland County Tech Collaboration is an ecosystem of tech companies, innovators, suppliers, academic institutions and county government creating connections and spurring economic growth in robotics integration, IT and computer services, research, engineering and design.
  • Five of the county’s largest tech firms have taken on the role of “Keystone company” to strengthen the tech ecosystem: FANUC America, HTC Global Services, JR Automation, OneStream, and RGBSI. Learn more here: https://youtu.be/u0omSoGZ5L8.
  • The Oakland County Tech Collaboration will host a series of tech collaboration events. For more click on oakgov.com/octechcollaboration.

Pontiac, Mich. – Oakland County has launched the Oakland County Tech Collaboration, a strategic initiative aimed at supporting and accelerating the growth of the county’s technology ecosystem powered by Oakland County Economic Development Business Retention & Growth unit.

“Oakland County is taking bold steps to establish itself as a national leader in technology innovation by strengthening our strategic focus on research, engineering and design, IT/computer services and robotics integration,” County Executive Dave Coulter said.

The Oakland County Tech Collaboration is an ecosystem of tech companies, innovators, suppliers, academic institutions and county government working to create connections, strengthen the ecosystem and spur economic growth in these key areas:

  • Research, Engineering, and Design
  • IT and Computer Service
  • Robotics Integration

These industries are pivotal to establishing Oakland County as a competitive technology hub. Five of the county’s largest tech firms have taken on the role of “Keystone company” to strengthen the tech ecosystem.

The Keystone Companies, including FANUC America, HTC Global Services, JR Automation, OneStream, and RGBSI, represent a wide array of expertise in these industries, from cutting-edge research and product design to AI and advanced IT software solutions. Their collective efforts will support the retention and expansion of the tech industry, attract new talent, and foster a collaborative environment that nurtures innovation and attracts new investments.

“These Keystone Companies are not only leaders in their fields but are committed to building a thriving tech ecosystem that will create new jobs, attract investment and ensure our region’s continued economic growth,” Coulter said.

The Oakland County Tech Collaboration will host a series of events, such as the Edu2B Tech Collaboration Series connecting business with higher education resources and opportunities at the university level connecting small tech companies to larger tech companies. Those events are scheduled as follows:

  • April 17 at Lawrence Technological University, Southfield
  • Sept. 18 at Walsh College, Troy
  • Nov. 6 at Oakland Community College, Auburn Hills

For more information about the Oakland County Tech Collaboration and upcoming events, please visit oakgov.com/octechcollaboration.

“Our focus on strengthening these three key industries is essential to the continued success of our regional economy,” said Greg Doyle, manager of Business Retention & Growth for Oakland County. “By bringing together top businesses in IT, computer services, research, engineering, and design, and robotics, we’re creating a dynamic environment for innovation and fostering the kind of partnerships that will drive economic growth for years to come.”

About Oakland County

Oakland County, located in southeastern Michigan, is a vibrant hub for innovation, research, technology, and manufacturing. With a strong focus on advancing industries such as IT/computer services, robotics, and engineering, Oakland County is committed to becoming a leading technology region in the U.S., offering businesses the tools, talent, and resources needed to thrive.

AG Nessel Issues New Consumer Alert on Bitcoin ATMs

AG Nessel Issues New Consumer Alert on Bitcoin ATMs

by | Apr 8, 2025 | Regional News
Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 8, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

AG Nessel Issues New Consumer Alert on Bitcoin ATMs

LANSING – Today, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel issued a new consumer alert warning residents of scammers using Bitcoin ATMs to defraud unsuspecting victims.

“Because money sent through Bitcoin ATMs is nearly impossible to recover and these machines lack oversight and regulation, they have become an attractive option for criminals engaged in fraud and money laundering,” Nessel said. “Staying informed can protect consumers from falling victim.”

A common Bitcoin ATM scam targeting older adults involves a fraudulent message or phone call. The call might be from someone claiming to be with Apple, Google, or another well-known company, or even law enforcement. The scammer tells the victim that their financial accounts have been compromised. The call recipient is told they need to take immediate action to prevent unauthorized transactions on their account. If the scammer is pretending to be from a law enforcement agency, they may even threaten the victim with criminal prosecution or jail time if the victim doesn’t pay a fine right away.

Victims are then instructed to withdraw large amounts of cash from their bank accounts. They are told to deposit the funds into a Bitcoin ATM. The cash is inserted and converted into Bitcoin. The victim is directed to scan and send a receipt or QR code to the scammer. The moment that transaction is completed, the money is gone —permanently. Traditional bank transfers, wire transfers, or credit card transactions have fraud prevention measures. These measures provide customer protection or financial institution safeguards to stop or reverse the transfer. That is not the case with Bitcoin ATM transactions.

Bitcoin ATMs lack oversight and regulation. For this reason, they are widely used for scamming and money laundering. Some consumers may attempt to use them for legitimate transactions. However, they often come with very high fees. The fees make them an inefficient and costly way to buy cryptocurrency. It’s safer and cheaper to convert cash to cryptocurrency through a licensed and regulated online exchange.

Without regulation, victims of Bitcoin ATM scams have no meaningful consumer protections. Financial institutions have fraud prevention departments that monitor transactions. Banks can file suspicious activity reports (SARs) to investigate potential fraud. Unfortunately, Bitcoin ATMs operate outside these safeguards. They allow scammers to steal money quickly and anonymously.

To avoid becoming a victim of a Bitcoin ATM scam, remember these key points:

  • No legitimate company or government agency will ever ask you to deposit money into a Bitcoin ATM. If someone makes such a request, it’s a scam.
  • Beware of urgent requests. Scammers create a sense of urgency to prevent victims from thinking critically about the request.
  • Do not trust caller ID. Fraudsters can spoof phone numbers to make it appear as though they are calling from a trusted source.
  • Never download unknown software or grant remote access to your devices. This can allow scammers to take control of your personal information.
  • Talk to your bank before making large withdrawals. If you’re instructed to move money in an unusual way, seek advice first.
  • If you believe you have been targeted by a scam, report it immediately. Scams can be reported to the Michigan Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team and local law enforcement.

To file a complaint with the Attorney General or get additional information, contact:

Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form
Taxpayers Urged to be Alert and Aware for Scammers

Taxpayers Urged to be Alert and Aware for Scammers

by | Apr 4, 2025 | Regional News

Treasury Logo

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 4, 2025

Contact: Ron Leix, Treasury, 517-335-2167

Treasury: Taxpayers Urged to be Alert and Aware for Scammers

Treasury Safeguards Have Protected Scammers from Stealing
Individual Income Tax Refunds

LANSING, Mich. – With Michigan individual income tax filing season winding down, the Michigan Department of Treasury is reminding Michiganders to be cybersecurity aware and prepared to fight tax-related identity theft.

Cybercriminals are constantly using new tricks and tactics online to obtain personal information so they can fraudulently file state income tax returns and claim refunds on behalf of unsuspecting taxpayers. Typically, cybercriminals try to create a sense of urgency to incite an immediate response from taxpayers. For example, a scammer may allude to taking criminal actions against you for failing to respond.

“Vigilance is really the key to fighting scammers,” said Deputy State Treasurer Kavita Kale, who oversees Treasury’s Revenue Services programs. “Always examine the calls, emails and texts you receive to ensure they’re from a verified source. Scammers will take advantage of our life situations and look for those brief moments when we let our guard down.  Always take the extra steps to confirm you are communicating with an authorized source.”

Often, the taxpayer is already a victim of identity theft when a cybercriminal attempts to claim a state tax refund.

To be cybersecurity aware and prepared to fight tax-related identity theft:

  • Only connect to the internet over secure, password-protected networks.
  • Do not click on links or pop-ups, open attachments or respond to emails from individuals you don’t know.
  • If you are unsure of the email sender, type a website name by hand rather than clicking on an embedded link.
  • Do not respond to online message requests for personally identifiable information. Most organizations–banks, universities, companies, Treasury–do not ask for your personal information over the internet.
  • Limit who you share information with by reviewing the privacy settings of your social media accounts.
  • Trust your intuition. If you think an offer is too good to be true, then it probably is.
  • Password-protect all user accounts and devices that connect to the internet with strong passwords at least 12 characters long.
  • Do not use the same password twice. Choose a password that means something to you and only you. Change your password on a regular basis.
  • If something seems suspicious, report it to the proper authorities.

As an additional layer of taxpayer protection, Treasury sends confirmation quiz letters to some taxpayers to help prevent the loss of state income tax refunds. Refunds are issued after a taxpayer’s identity has been verified. This measure is to protect your refund and ensure it is going to you, not someone trying to fraudulently collect your tax refund. If you receive a confirmation quiz letter, follow the directions.

To learn more about the state Treasury Department, go to Michigan.gov/Treasury or follow @MITreasury on X or LinkedIn. Additional information about state individual income taxes can be found at Michigan.gov/IncomeTax.
AG Nessel Issues New Consumer Alert on Genetic Testing Services

AG Nessel Issues New Consumer Alert on Genetic Testing Services

by | Apr 2, 2025 | Regional News
Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 2, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

AG Nessel Issues New Consumer Alert on Genetic Testing Services

LANSING – Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has issued a new consumer alert on genetic testing services. The new alert comes as she is urging 23andMe customers to consider deleting their accounts to protect their sensitive personal data following the genetic testing company’s bankruptcy.

Attorney General Nessel emphasized in her alert the difference between genetic testing conducted for medical purposes by health care providers and testing performed by private direct-to-consumer genetic testing services.

“While DNA testing conducted for medical purposes by a health care provider is strongly protected by federal privacy laws, results from private direct-to-consumer genetic services are not considered medical records and lack these legal protections,” Nessel said. “Amid the 23andMe bankruptcy, consumers should be mindful of the potential risks of these private services and take steps to protect their data.”

After creating an account and receiving their report, some commercial genetic testing customers may have no more use for the service. They should consider deleting their accounts. Then they should request the destruction of any stored data.

To prevent unauthorized access or misuse of their data, account holders should:

  1. Take steps to delete their account from the company’s website.
  2. Request the destruction of their genetic data.
  3. Revoke permission for genetic data to be used in research, if applicable.

Most genetic testing services should have instructions for completing the above actions on their website.

Consumers who suspect their genetic data has been compromised can report their concerns to the Michigan Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team:

Consumer Protection Team
P.O. Box 30213
Lansing, MI 48909
517-335-7599
Fax: 517-241-3771
Toll-free: 877-765-8388
Online complaint form
Consumers Energy Announces New Electric Rate Hike

Consumers Energy Announces New Electric Rate Hike

by | Apr 1, 2025 | Regional News

Michigan Department of Attorney General Press Release banner

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
April 1, 2025

Media Contact:
Danny Wimmer

Consumers Energy Announces New Electric Rate Hike Case Just 7 Days Following Approval of $154 Million Increase

LANSING— Today, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel recommits to Michigan utility ratepayers her pledge to intervene in every rate case before the Michigan Public Service Commission (MPSC), as Consumers Energy announced a new electric rate hike request on Friday— just seven days following the approval of their latest rate hike and one week before that rate hike takes effect on April 4.

By law, utility companies can only file rate hike requests once every 12 months, as measured from the day they file their rate hike application. Friday’s filed announcement comes 364 days since the filed announcement in Consumers’ last rate hike case, and their intended application date of June 2 would come a mere 366 days since they filed their last rate hike application.

“By allowing Consumers Energy and DTE to file a new rate hike every twelve months, the State is allowing these billion-dollar businesses to ask for more and more before anyone can even gauge the impact of the previous rate hike,” said Nessel. “Meaning they’re back asking for more money before anybody knows if their proposed investments made any difference in reliability or affordability for customers.”

While it remains unknown how many additional millions of dollars Consumers Energy will seek to bill from their customers in this upcoming rate hike request, the utility corporation opened their previous cases seeking to hike residential electric rates by 8.2% in 2024 and nearly 5% in 2023. A summary of Consumers Energy’s new rate hike request is expected to be filed before the formal application, which the corporation indicates it will file in June.

“Consumers Energy just got the green-light to raise electric rates, and one week later they’re back with their hands out before putting any of their new earnings to work for their customers,” Nessel continued. “My office will continue to hold Consumers Energy and DTE accountable before the Commission, and expose again and again the unjustifiable costs they try, perennially, to foist upon their bill-paying customers.”

In January, the MPSC approved DTE’s latest rate hike, which will allow the utility corporation to bill electric customers an additional $217 million annually, though the efforts of Attorney General Nessel were successful in slashing that rate hike in half. DTE has already indicated to the MPSC (PDF) they intend to file their next electric rate hike request next month. In addition to DTE’s filed notice for their upcoming electric rate hike request (U-21860), Consumers Energy has an open natural gas rate hike request before the commission as well (U-21806).

The Attorney General has saved Michigan consumers more than $3.7 billion by intervening in utility cases before the MPSC. Consumers Energy sells electricity to approximately 1.9 million customers throughout Michigan and natural gas to 1.8 million customers across the state.
Gov. Whitmer Announces 240 New Jobs in Kent & Oakland Counties 

Gov. Whitmer Announces 240 New Jobs in Kent & Oakland Counties 

by | Mar 27, 2025 | Regional News

Governor Whitmer Header

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

March 27, 2025

Contact: [email protected]

 

Gov. Whitmer Announces 240 New Jobs in Kent & Oakland Counties

OVD Insurance announces acquisition of Grand Rapids building, creates 131 new jobs and TYC Americas establishes new facility in Wixom, creates 109 new jobs

 

LANSING, Mich. — Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced two business expansion projects in key industries that will help create 240 new jobs and result in nearly $31 million in capital investment in Kent and Oakland counties. OVD Insurance is announcing the acquisition of a new building in downtown Grand Rapids to accommodate significant growth with their customer base. In Wixom, TYC Americas is announcing a new facility to service their customer base and onshore their manufacturing operations from China and Taiwan to Michigan.

 

“Today’s expansions by OVD Insurance and TYC Americas will create 240 new, good-paying jobs in and drive nearly $31 million of investment in Grand Rapids and Wixom,” said Governor Whitmer. “Both these companies are betting on Michigan and doubling down on our state because of our strong network of talent and quality of life. Together, let’s keep growing our professional services industry and competing against other states and nations to bring advanced manufacturing home.”

 

“Today’s announcements by OVD Insurance and TYC Americas highlight Michigan’s economic diversity and these company’s steadfast commitment to Making it in Michigan,” said Matt McCauley, Senior Vice President, Regional Prosperity at the MEDC. “As we continue executing the Make it in Michigan economic development strategy by focusing on People, Places, and Projects, we stand at the ready to help support companies looking to create new jobs, invest in Michigan and help drive economic resiliency in every corner of the state.”

 

OVD Insurance is a full-service, independent insurance brokerage located in Wyoming, MI that has experienced significant growth, having doubled in the last five years. To accommodate its growth, OVD Insurance in partnership with CWD Real Estate Investment is announcing the purchase of the 7-story, 99,000 square-foot office building located at 37 Ottawa Avenue Northwest in the heart of downtown Grand Rapids. OVD, with offices in Grand Rapids, Pittsburgh, and Raleigh, as well as partnerships in Dallas and Nashville, plans to make significant investments into the building throughout 2025 and anticipates their move to be late Q3 or Q4 this year.

 

“Being part of Grand Rapids’ ongoing growth is an exciting opportunity. Through this move, we’re grateful to partner with CWD, The Right Place, the City of Grand Rapids, and the MEDC,” said Josh Van Vels, President of OVD Insurance. “This relocation marks a significant milestone for OVD, reflecting our commitment to the next phase of our company’s evolution. This new location is more than just an office — it’s an investment in our culture, our people, and the future of OVD Insurance.”

 

“We are in the people business,” Van Vels adds. “We have world-class people, and we’re committed to attracting and retaining top talent.”

 

Today’s announcement is anticipated to result in the capital investment of at least $12,040,000 and the creation of at least 131 new jobs with the support of the Michigan Strategic Fund in the form of a $1 million Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. Attracting world-class talent was a key driving factor in their decision to select Michigan.

 

“West Michigan is continually growing as a competitive place for businesses to thrive and for young workers to secure good-paying jobs and put down roots — and investments like this $1 million business development grant make all the difference in ensuring we can continue building on this economic progress here in Grand Rapids,” said Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks (D-Grand Rapids). “Congratulations to the grant recipient, Wyoming’s very own OVD Insurance. Let’s keep working together to bring more new jobs, businesses, and capital investment home to West Michigan.”

 

“It’s exciting to see a West Michigan company making intentional investments in their community,” said state Representative Kristian Grant (D-Grand Rapids). “As we work hard in Lansing to attract high paying, long term jobs it’s also important that we recognize the local companies who are already doing the work so that we can find ways to support them as well.”

 

With rapid upward mobility opportunities, new jobs will have starting wages of $30.00 per hour, noticeably above the regional median wage of $21.97. In addition, the company provides employees with a robust benefits package.

 

“We’re excited OVD Insurance has chosen to grow their headquarters in the heart of Grand Rapids,” said Andria Romkema, Senior Vice President of Business Development at The Right Place, Inc. “OVD’s decision to locate their corporate HQ in the city will bring more energy to an already vibrant downtown and speaks to the region’s ability to attract the highly skilled talent our companies need to thrive.”

 

For those interested in pursuing a career with OVD Insurance, please click <HERE.>

 

TYC Americas is a supplier of automotive lighting products for two- and four-wheel vehicles and is one of the world’s largest vehicle equipment manufacturers and worldwide supplier to both OEMs and replacement aftermarket companies.

 

“TYC is proud to announce the opening of the Michigan Mobility Center in Wixom,” noted John Kovalik, TYC Americas OEM Operations and Strategy. “This site will expand our global reach with world class Engineering and Manufacturing.

 

The company is announcing they are establishing a new facility in Wixom to service current and future customers throughout North America that will bring manufacturing operations from China and Taiwan to Michigan. The expansion project is expected to generate $18,750,000 in capital investment along with the creation of 109 new jobs paying between $24 and $55 per hour plus benefits, which is above the regional median wage of $23.73 per hour.

 

The company evaluated moving their new facility to Georgia near an existing customer base and company site, however, Michigan was chosen due to access to Michigan’s world-class talent pool and the elimination of supply chain issues from overseas. Today’s announcement was supported by the Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) through a $981,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. In addition to MSF support, the company is partnering with Oakland County Michigan Works! to attract, manage, and retain talent.

 

“The City of Wixom is thrilled to welcome TYC Americas and their new research and development hub to the community. They have a beautiful facility, and we’re excited to support their growth and success over the coming years,” said Drew Benson, Assistant City Manager & Director of Economic Development for the City of Wixom. “There is a long history of high-end manufacturers like TYC finding success in Wixom, and we sincerely appreciate TYC’s innovative presence and significant investment into our community.”

 

The company’s parent, TYC Brother Industrial, was founded in Taiwan in 1964. In 1991 they began doing business in the United States and today have five distribution centers with approximately 150 employees, 10 of which are Michigan residents.

 

For those looking to pursue a career with TYC Americas, please click <HERE.>

 

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