Tariff changes and global trade shifts are not just headlines. They are impacting day-to-day business operations across our region.
At Ann Arbor SPARK, we’ve heard from companies of all sizes that recent federal trade policy changes are creating uncertainty and driving up costs. Whether you are sourcing steel or managing a global supply chain, the effects are real. We are here to listen, connect you with trusted resources, and advocate for a globally competitive business climate in Michigan.
Read our full message on the economic implications of tariffs.
If tariffs are prompting your business to consider reshoring operations or investing in U.S. production, we’d welcome a conversation. Ann Arbor and Southeast Michigan offer a strong talent base, strategic location advantages, and a deep bench of industry support. Contact us at bdteam@annarborusa.org.
What We’re Hearing from the Ann Arbor Business Community
Ann Arbor SPARK surveyed local companies to better understand how tariffs are affecting operations across our region. While the level of impact varies, most businesses expressed concern about rising costs and increased uncertainty.
What Businesses Are Experiencing
While the level of impact varies, a few consistent themes emerged:
- More than one-third of businesses reported significant increases in the price of raw materials—especially steel, aluminum, and electronics components.
- Many companies are absorbing these increases rather than passing them on to customers, tightening already slim profit margins.
- From delayed facility expansions to postponed purchase orders, unpredictability in trade policy is forcing businesses to pause on long-term investments.
Even businesses not directly affected yet are watching closely, preparing contingency plans, and bracing for ripple effects.
“With ‘off again, on again’ tariffs, significant time and money is wasted trying to prepare for an unpredictable business environment. Tariffs not only increase costs, but also result in lower marketability of our products, and divert human talent from productive uses and increase risk. Higher risk means less future investment, to save resources for use in worst-case scenarios. There is no benefit to either business or consumers—only wasteful downsides.”
– Anonymous Survey Respondent
Planning Is Getting Harder
Uncertainty is the word we keep hearing. With shifting policies and little warning, it’s tough for companies to confidently plan ahead. Business leaders told us they’re:
- Holding off on capital spending
- Pausing hiring plans
- Re-evaluating global supplier relationships
Helpful Resources
To support businesses navigating these challenges, we have compiled a list of trusted resources offering guidance, tools, and policy updates:
MEDC Tariff Resources: MEDC has a number of resources available, including free supply chain research, real-time tariff tracking, international trade services, and small business support hubs.
MICHauto Tariff Resource Center MICHauto’s Tariff Resource Center provides real-time updates, analysis, and advocacy tools to help Michigan’s automotive and mobility industry navigate the evolving trade and tariff policies.
Michigan SBDC: Navigating Tariffs Practical resources for small businesses managing supply chain issues and cost increases
Need Support?
If your company is facing tariff-related challenges and would like support or connections to additional resources, please contact Ann Arbor SPARK at bdteam@annarborusa.org.
For additional assistance, explore our business expansion services or learn more about the industries we support.
