FLINT, MI – In a major boost to the local economy, NanoGraf, a leading innovator in battery materials, is establishing a $175 million manufacturing facility on the site of Flint’s former Buick City.
This significant investment is expected to revitalize the area, create hundreds of jobs, and position Flint as a key player in the electrification revolution.
Federal Support for Local Growth
U.S. Representative Dan Kildee (D-Flint Twp.) praised the U.S. Department of Energy’s decision to allocate a $60 million grant to support the construction of this new manufacturing hub. Kildee emphasized the transformative potential of this investment for Flint’s economic recovery:
“I’m thrilled to see the Biden-Harris administration invest in American manufacturing right here in Flint,” said Kildee. “This project will breathe new life into Buick City, create hundreds of jobs, and restore hope for our resilient Flint community. I fought hard to secure this investment to ensure we bring good-paying jobs back to our district.”
Job Creation and Economic Impact
NanoGraf’s Flint facility is projected to generate 200 construction jobs and up to 150 permanent positions.
According to the company, 80% of the permanent workforce will be sourced locally, ensuring that the benefits of this development stay within the community.
The new facility will manufacture 2,500 tons of silicon anode battery material annually, enough to power 1.5 million electric vehicles (EVs) per year.
NanoGraf’s Commitment to Domestic Manufacturing
Founded in 2012, NanoGraf has made waves in the battery technology industry by developing high-performance silicon anode materials for lithium-ion batteries.
These materials enhance energy storage capacity, extend battery life, and reduce charging times, making them essential to the future of electric vehicles and consumer electronics.
NanoGraf’s CEO, Francis Wang, highlighted the importance of the company’s U.S. roots and its role in strengthening the domestic battery supply chain:
“As a U.S.-based company, we’re committed to boosting domestic production of advanced battery materials. This new facility is a critical step forward in meeting the national demand for high-performance EV batteries,” said Wang. “Our move into Michigan also strengthens local economies, fosters union relationships, and helps build a skilled manufacturing workforce in the Midwest.”
Supporting Union Partnerships
NanoGraf has signed a neutrality agreement with the United Steelworkers, affirming its commitment to a unionized workforce.
Should the majority of employees opt for union representation, NanoGraf has pledged to work closely with the United Steelworkers to ensure fair labor practices.
A New Era for Buick City
This new facility will be the second major tenant at the Flint Commerce Center, the former Buick City site. Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley expressed his optimism about the long-term impact of NanoGraf’s investment:
“NanoGraf’s investment, combined with the Department of Energy’s support, will secure Flint’s place in the future of innovative battery technology. The new facility will bring high-paying jobs and long-lasting economic benefits to our community,” said Neeley.
Transforming the Buick City Site
The Flint Commerce Center, formerly known as Buick City, is experiencing a resurgence. Victory Packaging, a company tied to General Motors, was the first business to move into the site, signing a five-year lease for 166,000 square feet in the first spec building developed by Ashley Capital.
Ashley Capital, which acquired 300 acres of the former General Motors property from the Revitalizing Auto Communities Environmental Response (RACER) Trust, is spearheading the site’s redevelopment.
The Commerce Center is expected to provide 3.5 million square feet of business space and create 2,500 full-time jobs, marking a significant turning point for Flint’s economy.
The Road Ahead
As NanoGraf’s manufacturing facility prepares to break ground, Flint’s future in the clean energy sector looks promising. The combination of federal support, private investment, and a commitment to creating local jobs signals a brighter future for a city with a storied past.
The facility not only brings new opportunities to the region but also positions Flint as a leader in the national shift towards electrification and sustainable manufacturing.
