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Reminder: ✨ Bay Future’s February Update ✨February 2025

08.21.19 -- BayFutureDriveForward.

Bay Future Staff Message
Dear Bay Future Friends,

It is crucial for businesses to regularly reflect on their mission and the commitments outlined in their strategic plans.

I want to commend the Bay Future Board of Directors for their dedication to ensuring that Bay Future continues to think strategically and purposefully.

Bay Future, Inc. is committed to fostering economic prosperity in our community. Our mission focuses on implementing initiatives that support business retention and the growth of existing enterprises. Through partnerships with local businesses and stakeholders, we strive to ensure these industries thrive and create long-term, sustainable job opportunities for residents.

In addition, Bay Future works to attract new industries that diversify and strengthen our economic landscape. By fostering an environment that invites investment, we aim to position our community as a hub for innovation and growth, ultimately creating a vibrant and resilient economy that benefits all.

Warm regards,

Reaume 2022 (1)Jim Reaume

President & CEO

Bay Future, Inc.

Annual Meeting Registration Is Now LIVE!!!

It’s that time of year again—our Annual Meeting Registration is Officially LIVE!

This is more than just a meeting; it’s a celebration of community engagement, collaboration, and the bright future that lies ahead for Bay County. Join us as we gather local businesses and stakeholders for an inspiring afternoon filled with opportunities to connect, share ideas, and foster partnerships that will drive economic growth in our region.

We promise you a welcoming atmosphere where laughter is encouraged, and who knows, you might even find your next business partner over a cup of coffee! So, don’t wait—secure your spot today and be part of the exciting journey towards a thriving Bay County!

Highlights From The 2024 Annual Meeting

Bay Future Capital Campaign In Full Swing

Bay Future is in the midst of our 2025-2027 capital campaign, a bold initiative designed to supercharge economic development in Bay County!

Your support is not just welcome; it’s essential in sculpting a brighter future for our community.

We invite you to leaf through the prospectus and fill out the investor commitment form.

 

Bay County Sees Labor Improvement

Bay County continues to see incremental gains in the Civilian Labor Force and Employed categories in the most recent published numbers from the Michigan Department of Technology, Management, and Budget.

From December 2023 to December 2024, the Civilan Labor Force increased 1.8% and the number of Employed increased 0.4%.

The number of Unemployed has also increased significantly, but an increase in the labor force can potentially cause the unemployment numbers to rise as many of the new labor force are still job searching.

 

Board of Directors Spotlight

Tyler Kring

Community Relations Manager, Michigan Sugar Company

Originally from Cadillac, Michigan, I earned a bachelor’s degree in sports management from the University of Michigan and an MBA from Central Michigan University. In 2012, I moved to the Great Lakes Bay Region to intern with the Great Lakes Loons, where I spent 12 seasons, ultimately becoming Assistant General Manager of Business Development.

After leaving the Loons in 2023 to pursue a childhood dream of working in NASCAR, I returned to the Great Lakes Bay Region in 2024 as the Community Relations Manager at Michigan Sugar Company, overseeing philanthropic and community partnerships.

I serve on several boards, including as Secretary for Hidden Harvest, Co-Chair for United Way of Midland County’s Community Impact Panel, and recently joined Bay Future’s board. I live in Auburn with my wife, Ashley, who works at United Way. We both share a passion for supporting those in poverty or ALICE and strengthening our community.

I believe Bay County has everything to become the next great destination in Michigan, and I’m excited to help drive its evolution. Outside of work, I enjoy traveling, exploring different cultures, and experimenting with new culinary techniques. Life is too short to eat boring, bland food.

 

Bills Establishing Innovation Fund & R&D Tax Credit Announced

This is exciting news that adds another incentive to current and prospective Bay County businesses. Incentives like this will bolster our efforts in retaining and recruiting innovative businesses that will continue to propel Bay County forward. Read the press release here.

 

Bangor Township DDA Facade Improvement Program

The Bangor Township DDA has established a facade improvement program for local properties within its district for 2025. Qualifying projects will be reimbursed 50% of the project cost up to $10,000. The DDA has allocated $100,000 for this project and is excited to embark on this public-private partnership for the improvement of the community.

“Over the years, the Bangor DDA has been incredibly ambitious with its investment in development – particularly in the Shrestha Drive commercial district,” said Dr. Lee Newton, DDA chairman. “Now we are directing our focus toward redevelopment of buildings with the intent of aesthetic or functional improvement, or both. This program definitely highlights that Bangor Township is open for business.”

“The Bangor Township DDA has achieved many fabulous things and has achieved all its original goals. Not resting to raise their arms and cheer victory, they continue to improve the district and polish the gem they have created,” said Bangor Township Supervisor Glenn Rowley. “I have long used the catch phrase ‘Beautiful Bangor Township’; this program is a true testament to meaning of it. We salute all the businesses that take advantage of this program and thank the DDA for its commitment to the community. We appreciate them keeping beautiful Bangor township…..beautiful.” 

Program information and applications are available on Bangor Township’s website.

 

Bay Future Featured in Route Bay City Article

Route Bay City reporter Kathy Roberts spoke with Jim Reaume, Bay Future President & CEO, about some of the behind-the-scenes things that go into drawing new businesses into the community, and retaining local businesses and talent.

Link to Full Article

Bay Future, Inc. Platinum Level Investors!

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