MMDC | Economic Development Updates in Middle Michigan

Economic Development News October 2023

Downtown Pitch: Clare Supports Three Local Entrepreneurs with Over $16,000 In Prizes

The City of Clare will see three new business ideas flourish thanks to the MMDC Downtown Pitch: Clare Competition that took place on September 19th. Over $16,000 in funds were raised to support Back Alley Pizza, Sweet Louise Candy & Gifts and Wildflower and Wren Market - all budding businesses in the Clare area.

Gladwin Welcomes Back Jeep Creep

The community of Gladwin is excited to bring back a popular event, Jeep Creep, this fall. Its an event that brings thousands of people to the area. Interested in attending? The event will take place October 27th-29th at Riverwalk Place in downtown Gladwin, MI.

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Union Township Receives Rural Readiness Grant

Union Township received a $45,000 Rural Readiness Grant from the Office of Rural Development to support industrial development along the US-127 corridor in Isabella County.

In partnership with Pine River and Marion Public Schools, Middle Michigan, along with the Wexford-Missaukee School District, introduced students to local manufacturing careers by touring Northern Precision Products, LeRoy Tool & Die, Pollington Machine Tool, Inc. and Morgan Composting earlier this month. Additional tours may be added later this fall through a grant provided through the MEDC for Prosperity Region 4.

Upcoming Events

Join Us for Coming Home: Middle Michigan Once again, we are hosting our Career Networking Mixer on Friday, October 13th, 3-5 pm at the Courtyard Marriott at Central Michigan University. Please invite any career seekers you know to join us. We will have over 20 area employers ready to network!

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Resources for Manufacturing and Agriculture

Industry 4.0 Grants Are Still Available! MEDC's Industry 4.0 Grant is still available to eligible companies. This grant provides 50% reimbursement for qualifying Industry 4.0 technology costs up to $25,000. Apply online.Value Chain Summit Event Join Michigan State University for their Value Chain Summit event taking place October 23rd and 24th at the H Hotel in Midland. Learn more. MIOSHA Workplace Health and Safety Grants MIOSHA has announced that they have two grants available for businesses looking to improve their company's health and safety through training and equipment. Learn more.

Resources for Main Street Businesses

Hispanic Heritage Foundation's Creciendo Con TikTok for Small Businesses - Due October 23rd The Hispanic Heritage Foundation is providing cash awards of $5,000 to 40 Latinx small business owners who have demonstrated perseverance, resourcefulness, hard work and entrepreneurial vision in their communities. Apply online. Small Business Digital Ready Program - applications accepted on a rolling basisTeam up with Verizon to get your business ready to succeed in today's digital world. Access free curriculum and once you've taken two courses, you may be eligible for a $10,000 grant. Learn mor e. The Awesome Award - applications accepted on a rolling basis If you have an idea that needs funding, you may be eligible for a $1,000 grant. A grant is awarded each month. Learn more.

Resources for Municipal and Non Profit Partners

Walmart and Sam's Club Local Community Grants - Due October 15thLocal non-profits can apply for a local community grant from Walmart and Sam's Club for amounts ranging from $250 - $5,000. All organizations must be CyberGrant FrontDoor verified. Apply online.

Rural Development Fund GrantsThe Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development will be accepting requests for proposals beginning October 24th. Funds can be utilized to promote the sustainability of land-based industries and supporting infrastructure that benefits rural communities. Learn more.

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