SOAR Program Delivers First Real Jobs

0:00Michigan's $2.4 billion SOA OR incentive program has been under fire, but it's finally delivering its first real jobs. Last year in 2025, 10 companies created 1,846 positions after snagging 1.74 billion in state subsidies. That's just 13% of the 14,559 new jobs they promised over time. Meanwhile, Dow held on to 5,028 jobs with a $120 million grant, pushing the total to 6,084 new or retained spots so far. Lawmakers weren't impressed in defunded SOAR this budget year, with Republicans and some Democrats calling out the massive taxpayer spend. Reps like Jasper Mardis say, big checks don't fix everything, as skepticism grows over whether the billions are worth it. According to officials, projects like Corning's huge factory in Saginaw County hired ahead of schedule, Ford added 146 admin roles.

1:02At its blue oval site, averaging $75,000 a year, an LG's battery plant near Lansing hit 408 of its 1000, 360 target, but Goshen's deal got canceled after missing milestones and others like Highland Copper lag without funding. Many DC folks remain upbeat, noting these multi-year mega projects bring construction booms, local hires, and long-term economic ripples that are just starting to show. Local news powered by AI, this is Canada News Today. I'm Corey with The Story.