The Grand Traverse region is the economic hub of Northern Michigan. Its diverse local economy has seen many transitions over time, originating in the 1850s with the start of the Sawmill at the mouth of the Boardman River.

In the 1950s John Parson and Frank Stulen patent the first CNC -or Computerized Numerical Control- technology in Traverse City beginning the “Second Industrial Revolution” for this area. This became the industry standard for which they received the National Medal of Technology & Innovation the nation’s highest award for technological advancement. Presently, Traverse City’s diverse economy now is home to world leaders in manufacturing, technology, and agriculture, all rooted in one of the most naturally beautiful towns in America and we seek to expand our technological innovation footprint.

Resources for Manufacturers

Traverse Connect and the Grand Traverse Area Manufacturing Council collaborated to provide manufacturers with the resources they need to grow and expand their businesses, and to improve the sustainability and growth of the local manufacturing sector by increasing the awareness and utilization of resources available to our local businesses.

Number of employees per industry

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) Grand Traverse County (2019)

Manufacturing $588,196

Public Sectors $931,381

Health Care and Social Assistance $839,898

Finance and Insurance $469,325

Mining, Quarrying, and Oil and Gas Extraction $22,574

Accommodation and Food Services $290,594

Wholesale Trade $183,828

Construction $315,242

Real Estate and Rental and Leasing $580,367

Information $158,212