In 1979, Thanedar immigrated to the United States to search for better opportunities. He paid for his education by working as a teacher’s assistant. During that time, he earned just $300 a month and sent $75 each month to his family. After earning his Ph.D. in Chemistry, Shri worked as a post-doctoral research scholar at the University of Michigan (1982-84). He also earned an MBA from Fontbonne College in 1987. He then entered the private sector as an entrepreneur.

For over 25 years, Thanedar built small businesses and created thousands of well-paying jobs that helped families. He is a three-time recipient of the “Entrepreneur of the Year” award by Ernst and Young.

After he retired from the private sector, Thanedar answered the call to fight for social, racial and economic justice. Shri Thanedar entered politics when he chose to run in the 2018 Michigan gubernatorial election as a Democrat. Thanedar's political platform included a $15 minimum wage, public education reform, infrastructure improvements, and increased government transparency. While he came in third, he won the city of Detroit. In 2019, he ran for State Representative in Michigan's 3rd District and won, and currently represents a portion of the upper east side of Detroit.