Economic Development

Coverage of projects, big and small, and the people who create them, which promote the economic health of a community, including manufacturing, retail, office, and hospitality developments.

Volunteers of America Michigan’s mission made possible by social enterprise thrift stores; support from IFF

Sometimes nonprofits need help to fulfill their mission of helping others within their communities. For Volunteers of America Michigan, when costly necessary roof repairs and upgraded lighting arose, they found a supportive partner in IFF. The community development financial institution that has provided millions of dollars of loans to five of the VOA Michigan thrift stores.

Latest in Economic Development
Mid-Michigan meat producers to expand sales opportunities

The farms are among 26 Michigan producers, processors and community development organizations to receive state agricultural grants.

Uproot checkout area
Michigan Good Food Fund receives $3 million USDA grant to expand healthy food access

The Michigan Good Food Fund is expanding its efforts to bring fresh, affordable food to underserved communities.

Rural Leadership Fellows boost development projects in the U.P.

The program aims to encourage students to pursue careers in the U.P.

New platform to share ‘Common Ground’ from community ideas and solutions

Issue Media Group, a multilocal network of solutions-based, issues-focused digital publications, has launched a new national platform for increasing the reach and impact of its journalism.

Crowdfunding helps public projects across rural Michigan

A crowdfunding platform for civic-minded projects has helped dozens of communities across Michigan.

Big developments in three rural Michigan towns receive state grants

Three rural Michigan towns were awarded significant state grants for downtown developments.

Just Peachy: Berrien Springs farm will expand with $175,000 state grant

Hildebrand Fruit Farm will upgrade its fruit-packing operations.

Wheatland Music Festival brings arts and community to Remus

In rural Mecosta County, the annual Wheatland Music Festival offers "a break from our world," showcasing a variety of music, dance, and juried arts and crafts. The beloved festival also gives back to the community, which has been part of its mission since its humble beginnings 50-plus years ago.

A modular Hot 'n Now arrived in Wayland by truck and placed down by crane.
Northern Michigan entrepreneur utilizes modular building tech in bid to revive fast-food chain

"Today, we are one step closer to bringing the nostalgic Hot ‘n Now brand back with new refreshed elements," says Monica King, CEO of GLI. "It's very exciting to witness the assembly process and watch that iconic logo and red roof top it all off!"

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