Michigan’s Strategic Outreach and Attraction Reserve (SOAR) program has disbursed over $2.5 billion since 2019, yet no jobs have been independently verified, according to state officials and analysts. Senate Economic and Community Development Committee chair Mallory McMorrow highlighted the zero‑job count during a May 2026 primary debate, intensifying scrutiny of Governor Whitmer’s subsidy strategy.

Billions Allocated, $720 Million Tied to Unverified Job Promises

By October 2025, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation reported that $1.3 billion of the earmarked $2 .2 billion had been spent, with roughly $720 million directed to company subsidies that hinge on promised hires. The program’s own data shows companies have self‑reported about 1,800 jobs, but the state has not completed an external audit, leaving the figure unconfirmed.

Failed High‑Profile Deal: Gotion Battery Plant in Big Rapids

The proposed partnership with electric‑vehicle battery maker Gotion collapsed amid a state attorney‑general investigation , underscoring the fragility of SOAR‑backed projects. The deal, once touted as a cornerstone of the fund’s job‑creation agenda, now serves as a cautionary example of promised versus delivered outcomes.

Site‑Readiness Spending: $590 Million Without Direct Workforce Ties

The Strategic Site Readiness Program component of SOAR has funded $590 million for preparing industrial sites, a spend that does not require a specific job commitment. Critics argue this allocation blurs the line between economic development and speculative land investment,especially as many sites remain idle.

Who Will Verify the 14,500‑Job Claim?

SOAR pledges more than $2 billion to attract firms that claim they will create 14,500 jobs over several years, yet the state’s verification deadlines have not been met. Non‑partisan analyst Eric Lupher of the Citizens Research Council of Michigan warned that the true impact cannot be measured until facilities become operational and audits are completed.

Open Question: When Will the First Milestone Be Met?

The earliest milestone , linked to a solar‑technology project, is not expected until December 2027, leaving a multi‑year gap before any tangible results can be assessed.