Latest Future Business Index Reflects Optimism on Michigan's Economy

LANSING, Mich., July 24, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Owners of Michigan's small and medium-size businesses have voiced their confidence in Michigan's economic future in the latest Future Business Index, published in partnership with Accident Fund Insurance Company of America and the Michigan Business Network. The optimism of the survey is a positive sign for Michigan workers and for those looking for employment, and indicates business leaders are demonstrating their confidence by raising wages and hiring.

"This year's survey results build on the significant optimism established last year and reinforce Michigan's journey toward economic recovery," said Mike Britt, president of Accident Fund. "It's exciting to see how small businesses in our state are continuing to find innovative ways to be a driving force for growth."

While the survey reflects positive signs for Michigan's economy, concerns remain regarding the challenges of retaining skilled employees and the unknown impact of the Affordable Care Act on the individual bottom lines of businesses.

"Michigan businesses have once again demonstrated their resilience in overcoming tough economic challenges to keep our state moving forward," said Chris Holman, CEO of the Michigan Business Network. "These businesses are the backbone of Michigan's economic growth and progress, and I am proud of their commitment to building a strong future."

Review a detailed summary of the June 2014 Michigan Future Business Index here or visit AccidentFund.com or MichiganBusinessNetwork.com.

About the Survey
The semi-annual Michigan Future Business Index has been commissioned by Accident Fund and the Michigan Business Network since 2006 and is conducted by the Michigan-based marketing services and survey research firm, Phoenix Innovate. A total of 611 Michigan business owners and C-suite executives were interviewed for the June 2014 survey.

About Accident Fund Insurance Company of America
Accident Fund Insurance Company of America has provided workers' compensation insurance coverage since 1912. As the WorkSafe People™ and a leading provider of workers' compensation coverage across the United States, we partner with independent agents to provide small to mid-size businesses with exceptional claims expertise, unrivaled loss control services and extensive online safety resources and training. Accident Fund Insurance Company of America is a member of Accident Fund Holdings, Inc. All policies are underwritten by a licensed insurer subsidiary of Accident Fund Holdings.

For more information about Accident Fund Insurance Company of America, visit AccidentFund.com.

About Accident Fund Holdings
Accident Fund Holdings, Inc. (Lansing, Mich.) and its subsidiaries are one of the largest workers' compensation insurers and the largest non-governmental specialty writer of workers' compensation insurance in the United States. Accident Fund Holdings conducts business through its four brands: Accident Fund, United Heartland, CompWest and Third Coast Underwriters. Accident Fund Holdings' insurance company subsidiaries are rated "A-" (Excellent) by A.M. Best.

Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20070827/CLM117LOGO

SOURCE Accident Fund Insurance Company of America