Michigan Allocates $4.1M for New AAM Initiatives

Executive directive aims to make the state an attractive landing spot for developers of a new generation of aircraft.

Jack Daleo

Wednesday, July 23, 2025 at 08:00 AM ET

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Jack Daleo

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer attends the state’s inaugural Uncrewed Triple Challenge competition. [Courtesy: Michigan Economic Development Corporation]

Key Takeaways:

Michigan has launched a "whole-of-government" Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Initiative, led by Governor Whitmer, to establish the state as a leading hub for drones, electric air taxis, and self-flying planes.
This initiative is backed by an additional $4.1 million in fresh grants, building on over $6 million previously awarded, aimed at scaling AAM capabilities, ensuring safe integration, and leveraging Michigan's industrial and workforce strengths.
Key projects receiving the new funding include drone delivery trials for CVS Health and medical logistics, and the University of Michigan developing an urban AAM testbed and a 40-mile corridor for beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone testing.

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After awarding more than $6 million in grants for advanced air mobility (AAM) projects in 2024, the state of Michigan is doubling down on drones, electric air taxis, and self-flying planes.

Last week, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed an executive directive establishing the Michigan AAM Initiative—a “whole-of-government” strategy to make the state an attractive landing spot for new aviation technology.