In a recent episode of the Human Element podcast, Beyond the Cart, Ben Lorenz, CEO of Human Element, sat down with Mike Folster from the Industry 4.0 Accelerator to talk about how Michigan’s manufacturing ecosystem is evolving with the help of advanced technologies. Their conversation covered how manufacturers can get started with smart technologies, the support available through public-private partnerships, and why now is the perfect time for mid-market companies to embrace Industry 4.0.
Meet the Guests
Mike Folster is a Michigan native with a deep background in automotive supply and advanced manufacturing. Over the past 15 years, he’s focused on helping manufacturers adopt transformative technologies through his work with the MEDC-sponsored Industry 4.0 Accelerator.
Ben Lorenz, representing Human Element, leads a team that integrates eCommerce platforms for B2B organizations and collaborates with the Michigan Manufacturers Association to help traditional manufacturers modernize through digital tools.
What Is the Industry 4.0 Accelerator?
The Industry 4.0 Accelerator is a collaborative initiative led by two of Michigan’s SmartZone accelerators: Centropolis at Lawrence Tech and Lean Rocket Labs in Jackson. Backed by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), the accelerator focuses on:
- Identifying the needs of Michigan manufacturers of all sizes, including large companies like Ford and Whirlpool.
- Globally scouting mature, proven Industry 4.0 technologies.
- Bringing these technologies to Michigan and helping tech companies land and grow in the state.
Folster emphasized that the Accelerator does not promote unproven startups. Instead, it supports scalable, successful technologies from around the world and helps integrate them into Michigan’s manufacturing ecosystem.
Key Focus Areas of Industry 4.0
The accelerator concentrates on high-impact technologies within the broader Industry 4.0 framework, including:
- Machine vision and metrology for quality control.
- Autonomous robotics for materials handling.
- IoT and connected platforms for real-time data.
- Digital twins and simulation to optimize processes without physical prototypes.
- Simplified tech stacks for easier adoption by non-technical users.
Folster noted that today’s tools are increasingly app-like—intuitive and ready for frontline workers without the need for complex programming.
Who Should Reach Out?
When engaging with manufacturing organizations, the Accelerator typically works with:
- Digital transformation leaders
- Controls engineers
- Plant managers and floor supervisors
These professionals often have firsthand knowledge of operational bottlenecks and are well-positioned to champion new tech solutions. Folster’s team emphasizes listening first—learning from what’s worked, what hasn’t, and where tech can make a real difference.
Engagement Tiers for Manufacturers
The Accelerator offers three levels of involvement:
1. Silver: Thought Leadership and Content
Free access to white papers and educational material tailored for all levels of a manufacturing organization.
2. Gold: In-Plant Consulting
Free plant floor walks and tech assessments tailored to a company’s specific challenges, without any vested sales interest.
3. Platinum: Technology Curation
A paid service designed for larger manufacturers, providing coordinated tours, demos, and tech evaluations like those offered at the Automate Show.
Robotics and Automation Grants
A key offering from the MEDC, the Industry 4.0 Adoption Grant, provides up to $25,000 in matching funds for eligible tech implementations. While funds were fully utilized at the time of the podcast, Folster noted that more funding is expected. The grants support:
- Robotics
- Automation hardware
- Vision systems
- Other qualifying tech equipment (excluding labor/programming)
Eligibility includes small businesses with fewer than 500 employees.
Why Mid-Market Manufacturers Should Act Now
According to Folster, mid-sized manufacturers have a golden opportunity. Industry leaders like Ford have already vetted and de-risked these technologies—making them ripe for adoption at smaller companies.
The key advantages include:
- Shorter adoption cycles
- Lower risk thanks to market maturity
- Affordable hardware and integration
- Access to experienced partners like Human Element and local systems integrators
Getting Started
Manufacturers ready to take the next step can:
- Visit i40accelerator.com to explore the intake form and learn more.
- Email Mike Folster directly for personalized guidance.
- Take advantage of free thought leadership resources or request a no-cost tech walk.
Final Thoughts
Ben Lorenz closed the conversation by emphasizing the synergy between Human Element’s approach and that of the Industry 4.0 Accelerator: both organizations are focused on building trust, not pushing products. They aim to empower Michigan manufacturers with the tools and support they need to compete in a rapidly evolving digital world.
If you’re a Michigan-based manufacturer, now is the time to connect and future-proof your operations.
