Michigan Steps Up: EGLE Awards $5.6M to Build a Circular Supply Chain

In a powerful example of state leadership in advancing the circular economy, the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) has awarded $5.6 million in grants to drive innovation in circular supply chains across the state. The funding will support thirty organizations committed to scaling recycling, reuse, and material recovery efforts—critical components of a thriving circular economy.

By investing directly in local businesses, nonprofits, and municipalities, EGLE is helping to create the infrastructure necessary to close material loops, reduce environmental impact, and generate economic opportunities in the process.

Why Circular Supply Chains Matter

A circular supply chain is a system designed to minimize waste and maximize the reuse of materials by keeping products, components, and resources in use for as long as possible. Unlike the traditional linear economy—where materials are extracted, used, and discarded—circular supply chains prioritize resource efficiency, extending product lifecycles and reducing reliance on virgin materials.

Michigan’s commitment to this model is evident in the projects it has chosen to fund, which range from expanding composting programs to developing new end markets for recycled materials. These initiatives will not only improve waste management but also help businesses rethink their material use, strengthening local economies while reducing landfill dependency.

One standout grant recipient is Goodwill Industries of West Michigan, which will develop a process for manufacturing eco-conscious wood products from unsellable and scrap wood-based materials received through its donated goods programs. Another key grantee, Cirba Solutions, will install an AI-powered automated battery sorting line to enhance battery recycling efficiency. Additionally, Design Declassified in Grand Rapids will transform locally sourced plastic waste into solid-surface materials for countertops, tables, and furniture. These organizations exemplify how targeted investments can drive meaningful progress in the circular economy. Learn more about the full list of grant recipients here.

The Need for State Leadership

While many businesses are eager to transition to more sustainable supply chains, the absence of a cohesive federal framework makes it challenging to scale these efforts nationally. States like Michigan are filling this void by taking decisive action, demonstrating that circularity is not just an environmental imperative but an economic opportunity for the state. 

EGLE’s investment underscores the critical role that state governments can play in catalyzing private-sector participation and fostering regional collaboration.

By prioritizing circular supply chains, Michigan is setting a precedent for other states to follow. The impact of these grants will extend beyond the direct recipients, influencing supply chain dynamics throughout the Midwest and beyond. More importantly, they signal to businesses and policymakers alike that the transition to a circular economy is both viable and necessary.

Scaling the Circular Economy

As organizations across Michigan put these funds to work, we will see new models for resource recovery, innovative partnerships, and expanded infrastructure that enable circularity at scale. Companies looking to reduce their environmental footprint and improve resilience should take note: the future of sustainable business lies in rethinking supply chains, embracing reuse, and investing in circular solutions.

At Rheaply, we believe that scaling the circular economy requires bold action and cross-sector collaboration. Michigan’s leadership provides a roadmap for how public investment can drive systemic change, and we look forward to providing the digital infrastructure for this market transformation through programs like our Michigan Materials Marketplace.