Dear Friends and Partners,

As we begin 2026, I want to take a moment to thank you for your continued belief in Middle Michigan Development Corporation and the work we do together on behalf of Central Michigan. The new year brings fresh opportunities, renewed momentum, and a clear focus on building a strong, resilient Middle Michigan economy.

We’re excited to share our 2026 MMDC Investment Booklet, which outlines our priorities for the year ahead and the impact your investment helps make possible – from business attraction and retention to talent development and community-driven initiatives. This booklet reflects both where we’re headed and how we can continue moving forward together.

Thank you for being a valued partner in this work. We look forward to another year of collaboration, progress, and meaningful results across Middle Michigan.

Sincerely, 

Kati Mora
President and CEO 
Middle Michigan Development Corporation

If you haven’t had a chance to complete our Economic Trends Survey, you still can! This survey will directly guide how we support and engage with our communities. Survey findings will be shared at community events throughout the year.

Middle Michigan is excited to welcome Brooke Hovenkamp to the Middle Michigan Team as a Community Growth Fellow working as part of a new statewide initiative supporting economic resilience, workforce development, and locally designed growth strategies in partnership with local governments, nonprofits, and community partners. A former township superintendent and senior municipal leader, Brooke brings more than a decade of experience aligning operations and partnerships to advance transformative governance and build strong, vibrant places to live and work.

We are really excited that Brooke is here and for all the knowledge and expertise she brings with her.

Join Us for our January Business Brews Mixer in Harrison January 28, 5-7 pm

Join us for our next Business Brews Mixer at the Venue on Main in Downtown Harrison! This is a great opportunity to connect with other business owners, municipal leaders, MMDC staff and some of our key business support partners.

Calling all residential developers! The City of Mt. Pleasant has an opportunity for your consideration. All proposals can be submitted through the City’s RFQ portal. Deadline to apply is January 26, 2026, at 1:30 pm EST.

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 Our Businesses

• American Express Shop Small Grants Program: Brick and Mortar Small Businesses may be eligible for up to $20,000 each to support growth and innovation. Applications due January 16th, 2026.

• Last Food Mile Grant: Farm businesses and business/organizations that work directly with Michigan-based farmers can apply to improve transportation and distribution infrastructure through this MDARD grant opportunity. Up to $100,000 in grant funding available. Applications are due February 6th, 2026.

• Reliable Rides Incentive Grant Request for Proposals: Middle Michigan employers may be eligible to receive up to $20,000 to implement a transportation solution for their employees. Deadline for submissions is February 9th, 2026.

NEW For Our Manufacturers  

Manufacturers, you can sign up for a free MI Hub for Manufacturers account where you will be able to access even more grant programs and funding options available to Michigan-based Manufacturers. Sign up here.

🔶 Resources for Our Communities and Non-Profits

• Local Government Policy and Practice: An MSU Extension Series: The first session kicks off on January 15th and will feature Dr. Erika Rosebrook who will lead a session on local government capacity and facilitate discussion on challenges Michigan communities are facing and they are addressing them. Every month, find another engaging and free session to participate in.

• What’s Ahead for Retail in 2026? Join Retail Strategies for this Retail Trends & Outlook webinar designed for city officials, developers and retail leaders. Attend online January 29th at 2 pm.

• Regenerative Farmer Network Grant: MDARD has up to $50,000 per grantee available to support building out a stronger regenerative farmer network. Interested organizations that would like to apply can do so no later than February 27th, 2026.