Michelle Hadwiger is the Deputy Director of the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade. Overseeing Colorado's global business development strategy, she is focused on advancing the state's economy, ensuring that Colorado is the most pro-business state in the country and remains competitive in the global marketplace.

As the leader of the Global Business Development division, Michelle employs data driven- strategies that enhance Colorado's ability to attract and expand job creation opportunities, increase investment and accelerate the commercialization of innovative products and services in Colorado’s advanced industries. In her tenure at the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, Michelle has successfully recruited/retained clients such as; Palantir, Visa, Google, United Airlines, Lockheed Martin Space Systems, Davita, Maxar Technologies, Ibotta, Intel, Cognizant, Trimble, Optiv, Hitachi Data Systems, Broadcom, BP Lower 48, and many more.

A key leader within OEDIT, Michelle’s work has spanned two gubernatorial administrations and has been instrumental in crafting the states’ semiconductor, quantum, and innovation economy and strategic framework.

Michelle earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Colorado State University located in Fort Collins, Colorado.

Michelle’s experience at the state level, coupled with her work with local municipalities and public-private partnerships, has resulted in unique expertise in aligning and integrating resources at the local, regional and state level. Her personal “get things done” style makes her one of the rising stars in the state.

A two-time Denver Business Journal 40 Under 40 nominee and Colorado Biz Magazine GenXYZ winner, Michelle has also been twice recognized in the 40 Under 40 DCI. Furthermore, her innovative spirit led to the co-creation of a nationally recognized access to capital program for the Advanced Industries sector, showcasing her ability to identify and address critical needs in the business ecosystem. Michelle holds several board positions to include a seat on; Colorado Research Authority, the CU Research Innovation board, Quantum Seed Grant Review board, and the CO-WY NSF engines board.