Michigan Artificial Intelligence Association Launches to Advance Responsible AI Innovation, Advocacy, and Education
Lansing, Michigan — August 4, 2026 — Leaders from Michigan's technology, business, and public policy communities announced the formation of the Michigan Artificial Intelligence Association (MAIA), a new statewide trade association dedicated to advancing the responsible growth of artificial intelligence through legislative advocacy, industry leadership, research, and education.
As artificial intelligence continues to transform every sector of the economy, the association will serve as a unified voice for Michigan's AI industry, advocating for policies that encourage innovation while promoting ethical standards, transparency, and responsible governance. MAIA will also serve as a trusted resource for policymakers, businesses, educators, and the public by producing resources, opportunities for engagement, and best practices that support the thoughtful development and deployment of AI technologies.
MAIA believes that artificial intelligence should be embraced as a tool that enhances—not replaces—human ingenuity. Through collaboration among business leaders, government, academia, and the technology community, the organization will work to ensure Michigan remains at the forefront of AI innovation while fostering stable employment, economic growth, and a competitive business environment.
"Our goal is to help position Michigan as a national leader in responsible artificial intelligence," said William Hallan, President and Chief Executive Officer of the association. "By bringing together leaders from industry, government, and the broader business community, we can help shape policies that encourage innovation while ensuring AI is developed and deployed in ways that benefit businesses, workers, and Michigan as a whole."
The association's work will focus on three primary areas:
Legislative and regulatory advocacy to support policies that foster responsible innovation and economic competitiveness.
Research and education that provides objective analysis, best practices, and educational resources on the ethical development and practical application of artificial intelligence.
Economic and workforce advancement by promoting AI as a complement to human expertise, helping organizations improve productivity while supporting long-term employment opportunities and financial stability.
The organization is guided by an inaugural Board of Directors representing technology, business, insurance, and public policy leadership across Michigan, including:
William Hallan, President and Chief Executive Officer, MAIA
Thomas Clement, Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel, MAIA
Bob Bartholomew, Chief Executive Officer, Dewpoint
Erin McDonough, Executive Director, Insurance Alliance of Michigan
Antoinette Kramer, President, Orin Jewelers
Eshwar Pastapur, Founder, Symplyphy.ai
Together, the board brings decades of experience in technology, business leadership, public policy, and economic development to guide MAIA’s mission to make Michigan a premier destination for responsible AI innovation.
Over the coming year, the association will engage with state policymakers, convene industry stakeholders, conduct research, and develop initiatives that encourage the ethical adoption of artificial intelligence across Michigan's economy.
Businesses, technology companies, startups, researchers, educators, and organizations interested in shaping the future of artificial intelligence are invited to become members and participate in building a thriving AI ecosystem for Michigan.
For more information on MAIA, visit michigan-ai.org
Media Contact:Communications@michigan-ai.org