Economic Development

Mateo Savedra.

Port Huron’s Urban Pioneer Program helps first-time home buyers plant roots

The Urban Pioneer Program in Port Huron is helping first-time, low- to moderate-income homebuyers become homeowners through $10,000 in down payment assistance and housing education. 

Latest in Economic Development
A rendering of winter activities at the proposed 285-acre recreation park.
Saving Sugar Loaf: Leelanau Conservancy unveils ambitious recreation plan for former ski resort

The Leelanau Conservancy has big plans for the long-dormant ski resort property, transforming the 285-acre site into a year-round public recreation area.

Complete: The last stretch of the White Pine Trail is paved

The last section of the popular White Pine Trail has been paved. The trail is now the third longest paved trail in the United States. 

“Majestic Riverview Park will not only enhance the entrance to Cheboygan’s downtown, but it will also create a welcoming site for river activity viewing,” says Connie Rieger, Majestic River Park Development Volunteer.
Once site to a historic pavilion, empty lot to be activated as pocket park in downtown Cheboygan

“Majestic Riverview Park will not only enhance the entrance to Cheboygan’s downtown, but it will also create a welcoming site for river activity viewing,” says Connie Rieger, Majestic River Park Development Volunteer.

Julie Molenda
SBAM Nurture Benefits program enhances compensation for child care providers

The Small Business Association of Michigan Nurture Benefits will expand access to health insurance, life insurance, and retirement savings for Michigan's child care providers.  

The patio and outdoor tasting bar at Shady Lane Cellars.
Rural ambition: Elevating Michigan’s wine and agricultural future

A collaborative effort in Northern Michigan will create a regenerative agriculture and hospitality destination on the Leelanau Peninsula. The plan is to also amplify the state's flourishing wine and agricultural scenes.  

Ludington’s ‘moment of awe’ trail poised for reconstruction

A popular and scenic trail at Ludington State Park is being reconstructed to meet modern safety and construction standards. 

"Today we’re transforming more abandoned or underutilized property sites into hundreds of units of quality, affordable homes across Michigan," says Governor Gretchen Whitmer.
New housing developments in Cadillac and Elk Rapids receive Brownfield grants to remove contaminants

"Today we’re transforming more abandoned or underutilized property sites into hundreds of units of quality, affordable homes across Michigan," says Governor Gretchen Whitmer.

Developer Day 2025 in Allegan County will take place Aug. 7.
Developer Day 2025 showcases housing opportunities across Allegan County

A full-day bus tour connects developers with land, leaders, and resources to spark new housing projects in Allegan County communities.

Growing healthy eaters: MSU Extension initiative helps daycare providers serve healthy food

MSU Extension's early childhood health initiative, Growing Healthy Eaters, is helping home childcare providers serve healthy foods while teaching kids about community agriculture and gardening with a concept of “farm to early childhood education.”  

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