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Middle Michigan Development Corporation Reports & More

March 26, 2025

Michigan Business Network

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SPOTLIGHT

Andrea Purrenhage opened Mt. Pleasant School of Dance in 2020 to offer professional-quality dance education locally. Despite COVID-19 challenges, she adapted quickly, moving classes online and later expanding to a 7,000-square-foot studio in downtown Mount Pleasant. Her focus is on empowering students, fostering leadership, and promoting body positivity. Beyond dance, she actively supports the community through partnerships and scholarships. Her journey exemplifies resilience and dedication to building both a business and a strong community.

EVENTS

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IN THE NEWS

Action begins on strategic enrollment management plan: Central Michigan University (CMU) has launched the development of a Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) plan, partnering with national firm SEMWorks. The initiative aims to boost enrollment, retention, and graduation rates over the next five years. SEMWorks will assess CMU’s recruiting strategies, academic offerings, and market challenges, including international student recruitment and online program opportunities. The plan is expected to be in place by November 2025 and will guide future enrollment priorities and investments. READ MORE

State, local leaders gather in Reed City to highlight $35 million investment in infrastructure improvements: State and local leaders gathered in Reed City to highlight over $35 million invested in upgrading the city’s water infrastructure. Improvements include replacing lead service lines, modernizing the wastewater treatment plant, and shifting to UV treatment to reduce chemical use. These upgrades aim to ensure clean water, improve local waterways like the Hersey River, and support economic growth. The initiative aligns with Michigan’s broader $5.3 billion investment in water infrastructure statewide since 2019. READ MORE

Clare-Gladwin RESD CTE millage renewal on May ballot: The Clare-Gladwin RESD will have a Career and Technical Education (CTE) millage renewal on the May 6th ballot. The proposal seeks to continue the existing 0.75-mill tax, first approved in 2016, which funds 13 career training programs for local high school students. If approved, it will generate about $2.3 million annually through 2034, without increasing taxes. Officials emphasize its importance for workforce development and student opportunities. READ MORE

Whether you are a manufacturer, downtown business, non-profit partner, or municipality, you’ll find our latest round up of resources for you at the end of every e-letter you receive. Looking for something more specific? Contact our office today.

Resources for Manufacturers and Ag-Based Businesses

Employer-Assisted Housing Fund
The Employer-Assisted Housing Fund is a bold, state-funded initiative designed to help employers invest in housing solutions for income-eligible households. Applications are currently being accepted.
Technical Assistance for USDA REAP Grants
Free technical assistance is available to help agricultural and rural small businesses apply to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA)’s Rural Energy for America Program (REAP).
Agriculture and Rural Businesses Energy Incentive Program
EGLE offers matching grants to accelerate the implementation of energy efficiency and renewable energy on farms, agriculture-related entities, and rural business through the Agriculture and Rural Businesses Energy Incentive Program. This grant opportunity will support increased resilience and stability of agricultural, agriculture-related, and rural businesses in Michigan through energy efficiency, renewable energy, electrification, and other innovative projects.

Resources for Place-Based Businesses and Developers

MI Neighborhood Program
This program is still open and accepting applications from qualified developers. Learn more and consider applying for funds to support housing development across our region.
Apply Today
Great Lakes Bay Small Business Hub Grants
Your small business may be eligible for up to $20,000. To get started, complete the intake form at WorkGreatLakesBay.com
Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) Program
Performance-based RAP grants are currently available for real estate development projects and can be applied for on a rolling basis.
Learn More.

Resources for Communities and Nonprofits

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources’ Recreation Passport Grant Program provides funding to local governments for developing and renovating public recreation facilities. Key points include:
- Funding Focus: Prioritizes renovation of existing facilities; new developments are also eligible.
- Eligibility: Open to local units of government, including cities, villages, townships, counties, and certain recreation authorities.
- Grant Amounts: Awards range from $7,500 to $150,000, requiring at least a 25% match from applicants.
- Application Process: Applications must be submitted via the MiGrants system by April 1 annually.
- Funding Source: Financed through 10% of revenues from Michigan’s Recreation Passport sales.
  
  For more details, visit the Recreation Passport Grants page.