MMDC | Middle Michigan Updates: December 2023

Jim McBryde Honored for Dedication to the Michigan Economic Developers Association

The Michigan Economic Developers Association (MEDA) recently highlighted MMDC's own President and CEO, Jim McBryde, for his dedication to the organization and profession. In 2023, he served as Board President and led the process of hiring MEDA's first new Executive Director in over 28 years. He is also very involved in MEDA's Advocacy Committee and shares his experience by teaching Business Retention and Expansion at the Economic Development Basic Course. After being one of two Board Presidents who has served two years as President (2021 and 2023), Jim will be Vice President of MEDA in 2024.

Meet Our New Clare County Director: Allison Heinrich!

"Working for MMDC has been an incredible experience, starting from my role as the office manager to now proudly serving as the Clare County Director and Office Manager. The opportunity to learn from the exceptional team at MMDC and the vibrant community of Clare has me genuinely thrilled. Here's to new beginnings and exciting adventures ahead!"

Connect with Allison Today

Featured Property: Evart Air Industrial Park in Osceola County

The Evart Air Industrial Park features approximately 28 acres of land available for development. To learn more or to inquire about the property available here, please contact the MMDC office.

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Central Michigan University's Make-A-Pitch Competition Crowns New Winner

The Central Michigan University (CMU) Isabella Bank Institute of Entrepreneurship hosted their annual Make-A-Pitch Competition in December. Students had the opportunity to pitch unique business ideas for a chance to win cash prizes. MMDC Vice President, Kati Mora, served as a judge and enjoyed sharing the many reasons why the Middle Michigan region is a great place to launch and grow a business.

A New Tractor Supply store is coming to Gladwin

Tractor Supply is coming to the City of Gladwin! Occupying an empty store lot at 174 James Robertson Dr., its exciting to see new development in the City.

Your Input Is Needed: MMDC's End-Of-Year Survey

As we wrap up another year, we would appreciate it if someone from your business or organization could complete our End-of-Year survey. Not only will this help us assess the economic climate of our Middle Michigan communities, but it will also hep us set goals for 2024 that align with the needs of your establishment. The survey should only take about 10 minutes to complete. Thank you!

Complete the 2023 End-of-Year Survey

Click Here to Complete the End-of-Year Survey

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.Michigan Craft Beverage SummitJoin the Michigan Craft Beverage Council (MCBC) and Pure Michigan Business Connect (PMBC) for the first-ever Michigan Craft Beverage Summit. The Summit aims to educate and connect growers, producers and other industry suppliers while creating collaborative partnerships to advance an ever-growing state craft beverage industry. Register here. Specialty Crop Block GrantThe purpose of the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) is to enhance the competitiveness of Michigan specialty crops. Specialty crops are defined as “fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture).” Grant deadline is February 8, 2024. Learn more.

Resources for Main Street Businesses

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. HerRise Micro Grant The Yva Jourdan Foundation, in partnership with HerSuiteSpot, is providing microgrants to women of color entrepreneurs since 2017. Applications currently being accepted. Learn more. Match on Main is launching in January! MMDC facilitates this MEDC grant program on behalf of our eligible communities. If you own a business in downtown Clare, Evart, Gladwin, Harrison or Mt. Pleasant, you may be eligible to receive up to $25,000. Learn more here. Applications due February 2nd, 2024. Learn more.

Resources for Municipal and Non Profit Partners

Redevelopment Ready Communities (RRC) Virtual Academy for Local Officials The RRC Virtual Academy provides an opportunity for local officials to learn the basics about Redevelopment Ready Communities and how your community can benefit from being engaged in RRC and pursuing the Essentials or Certified Path. This training is free to attend. Register today.

MSHDA Housing Readiness Incentive (coming soon!) The Housing Readiness Incentive Grant program will provide funding to eligible applicants (cities, villages and townships) to implement actions that encourage increasing housing supply and affordability. The maximum grant amount per award will be $50,000 and a match will not be required. This will be a first come, first serve grant and the online application portal is expected to open January 16th, 2024. Learn more.

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