NanoGraf, a leading battery materials company, is investing $175 million to build a new manufacturing facility at Flint’s former Buick City site. This project is expected to create hundreds of jobs and boost the local economy.
U.S. Representative Dan Kildee (D-Flint Twp.) expressed excitement after the U.S. Department of Energy announced a $60 million grant to NanoGraf for the facility’s construction.
“I’m thrilled to see the Biden-Harris administration invest in American manufacturing right here in Flint,” Kildee said in a press release. “This major investment, which I worked hard to secure for our district, will create hundreds of new jobs and breathe new life into the former Buick City plant.”
According to Kildee, the new investment will support jobs, strengthen U.S. supply chains, and boost domestic manufacturing.
Economic Forecast for the Better
The facility is expected to generate around 200 construction jobs through a labor agreement with the North American Building Trades Union and up to 150 permanent jobs, with 80% of those roles being filled by local talent. NanoGraf will produce 2,500 tons of its proprietary silicon anode battery material annually, enough to power 1.5 million electric vehicles (EVs) per year.
NanoGraf, an advanced battery materials company founded in 2012, specializes in high-performance silicon anode materials for lithium-ion batteries. The company has signed a neutrality agreement with the United Steelworkers, committing to work with the union if a majority of employees choose to be represented.
Francis Wang, NanoGraf’s CEO, said, “As a U.S.-based and U.S.-founded company, we’re committed to strengthening the domestic battery supply chain—and this factory is a big step forward. Expanding into Michigan allows us to scale up production to meet growing national demand for high-performance EV batteries and consumer electronics.”
Flint Mayor Sheldon Neeley welcomed the investment, stating, “The combined investment from NanoGraf and the Department of Energy will ensure domestic access to innovative battery technology, meet future EV demand, and create high-paying jobs that will benefit Flint for years to come.”
NanoGraf is the second company to move into the former Buick City site, now known as the Flint Commerce Center. Victory Packaging, a company with ties to General Motors, recently became the first tenant, leasing 166,000 square feet in the newly redeveloped area.
The Flint Commerce Center, redeveloped by Ashley Capital after acquiring 300 acres from the Revitalizing Auto Communities Environmental Response (RACER) Trust, is expected to offer 3.5 million square feet of business space and employ around 2,500 people full-time. Nearly $100 million in local and state funding has supported the project.
How can we help you?
Searching for an opportunity in the construction industry? Contact The Birmingham Group’s team of seasoned commercial construction recruiters today to discuss your career path or browse our open positions.
Are you a hiring authority in need of construction talent? Submit a search request today.
