Long-vacant building to be redeveloped in downtown Houghton

“We look forward to bringing high quality residential housing and increased retail activity to an already vibrant block of Shelden Ave,” says Sisu Ventures co-owner Brendan Jacques.

Snowmobilers enjoy an afternoon on Trail No. 417 in Marquette County.
Michigan DNR purchases more than 100 miles of U.P. snowmobile trail easements, designates for public

“Trails are critical to the Upper Peninsula’s economy, and we are proud to partner with Lyme to secure these trails forever,” says Ron Yesney, the DNR’s Upper Peninsula trails coordinator.

Students participating in the free dental clinic could choose from goodies.
Elks and local family team up to support free dental clinic for Beaver Island students

A $3,000 grant from the local Elks Lodge and a matching donation provided free dental services to students on remote Beaver Island.  

The time is now to prepare for broadband equity, access and deployment (BEAD) funding

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act gives is the best opportunity to close the Digital Divide, but it will present many challenges. What state leaders do today and in the months ahead could impact the lives of their constituents for years to come.

Symbiote makes customized furniture products and solutions for the biotechnology, education, healthcare, and security industries.
Furniture-maker expands operations in Zeeland

The customized furniture manufacturer’s expansion will create seven new jobs in the city of Zeeland. 

An intergenerational Spanish class at the Ypsilanti Senior Center.
Intergenerational programs bring younger and older Michiganders together to promote healthier aging

With funding from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund, the national nonprofit Generations United is bringing generations together to build communities that work better for all.

Children in the Three Sisters Garden in Buckley.
SNAP-Ed programs grow change in Michigan’s northwestern rural communities

Covering five northern Michigan counties, Northwest Education Services (NES) nutrition educators use a community-based approach that recognizes the unique strengths and challenges of each community they serve.

The antique tractor pavilion at the West Michigan Research Station.
Community foundations partner on small-town development

Community foundations have traditionally focused on grant making and other nonprofit support. These days, however, community foundations across Michigan are lending a hand with development projects of all kinds in small towns. 

Ten businesses advance in the 2022 Scale Up North awards competition
Crazy Quarters Arcade grows, creating one of the largest collections of pinball games in Michigan

Crazy Quarters has only been open about a year, but it’s already taken its collection of pinball games to a whole new level.  

Our Partners

Michigan Health and Hospital Association
MEDC

Common Ground Is Brewing

Support local stories and receive our signature roast straight to your door when you join at the Standard level (or above).

Drink Better, Read Local

Close the CTA

Don't miss out!

Everything Rural Michigan, in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

Already a subscriber? Enter your email to hide this popup in the future.