Your Partner in Growing Your Community

Why Economic Development

buildingsEconomic developers are often tasked with answering the question of exactly what it is that they do. As you will learn below, they use a variety of methods to meet their goals. This page provides a simple explanation of this great profession.

What is Economic Development?

Economic development is attracting and growing businesses, creating and retaining jobs, and making our communities a better place to live.

Why is Economic Development Important?

Attracting and growing businesses strengthens our economy providing locally-produced goods and services. Strong businesses pay taxes that go for vital services such as schools, roads, fire, and police. Businesses also provide good jobs that put money in people’s pockets and allow for a higher quality of life.

What is the impact of economic development?

Economic development has a lasting impact on a community. Job providers purchase goods and services they need to operate, and their workers purchase goods and services they need to live. Money changes hands many times as it flows through the local economy and creates overall prosperity enjoyed by all citizens.

What are other benefits of economic development?

  • Economic development has a major impact on the places where we live, work, and play. Putting vacant or abandoned buildings and land back into productive use is a major function of economic development. This helps keep businesses located in urban areas where sewer, water, and other services are already present.
  • Economic development retains and attracts talented people. Communities that provide quality jobs and great places to live and work are a magnet for folks of all ages. As a result, these places have a strong future.
  • Economic development also fosters the entrepreneurial spirit that resides in our creative and ambitious citizens. By providing access to ideas, investment and expert advice new companies can be created to help assure Michigan’s economy stays innovative and diverse.

What is an Economic Developer?

What is an Economic DeveloperEconomic developers are professionals within a community that use various tools to stimulate economic growth while maximizing the best interests of the entire community and finding mutually beneficial solutions for all parties concerned.

How do Economic Developers attract and grow businesses to strengthen our economies?

Economic developers work jointly with businesses, developers, and the government to promote economic growth. They are well versed in business assistance, marketing and knowledgeable regarding federal, state, and local programs.

How does an Economic Developer make a difference in my Community?

Businesses are always faced with decisions of where and how to invest their limited funds to be more successful. These funds are often borrowed from banks and investors who expect a return on their investment. Communities benefit from economic development and are quite often willing to help lower a business’s initial investment costs or taxes. Economic developers understand how these private investment decisions are made and work to make sure the decision is good for both the business and the community.

What tools do Economic Developers use to create Economic Development?

There are many factors that come into play when private investment decisions are made. Economic developers use tools such as incentives to reduce business costs which results in more investment in the community and creates benefits for both the private and public sectors.  

How do Economic Developers ensure the use of incentives is in the public’s best interest and businesses are held accountable for the promises they make?

The public sector makes the decision to approve the type and use of incentives. These decisions are based upon the desire to benefit the public. Economic development incentives are a valuable tool that can provide the state and local communities with a positive return on their investment. Economic developers are experts in the use of incentives and forging agreements between businesses and government to ensure the results are mutually beneficial to all.  

How can I find one to help me and/or my community?

The staff of the Michigan Economic Developers Association (MEDA) is happy to help connect you with an economic developer to help with your economic growth project. Also see the Michigan Economic Development Directory, full of MEDA members and partners that are ready to help you succeed in Michigan!

Additional Resources

This delightful video explaining economic development is shared with permission from the Marketing and Branding team at Economic Development Winnipeg.

Read the What is Economic Development, Exactly? blog by Karl Dorshimer, CEcD, EDFP, Director, Economic Development, Lansing Economic Area Partnership (LEAP)

View the Promoting Economic Development and Economic Developers in Michigan PowerPoint, created by MEDA's Advocacy Committee.

The International Economic Development Council (IEDC) and The Right Place, Inc. also have materials that explain economic development.

Questions

If you have any questions, visit our Contact MEDA page.

Michigan Economic Development News and Resources

meda newsEach week, the MEDA staff sifts through several sources for news that is useful to our members, and that highlights the work of our members. MEDA members receive the news before it is posted to this page.

Headlines not only include good news about economic growth in Michigan, but also valuable reports, examples of the creative use of an economic development tool for a project, federal-level program updates, or economic outlooks and trends. MEDA Members in the News articles list the name of a MEDA member and tell about the work that they are doing to grow their community. The Economic Development Around the Word component is meant to give perspectives and ideas based on what is going on in other states or countries.

Economic development news from this past week.

3/22/24

Muskegon Set Out to Build Houses on Hundreds of Vacant Lots. Here’s How it’s Going

Funding Bill Passed by Senate Includes 'Significant Wins for Michigan': Stabenow

How Michigan Is Investing In Colleges As Economic Development Partners

Promoting Economic Development in the Downtown District

Economic Development Resources
MSU Food Industry Events

1/22/24

Roadmap to Rural Prosperity Released to Equip Michigan’s Rural Communities with Strategies to Build Long-Term Prosperity

Gov. Whitmer Announces 165 New Jobs w/ Three Business Expansions in Lexington, Ithaca, & Standish

Business Leaders More Optimistic on Michigan, but Challenges Remain

Economic Development Resources
Savills Manufacturing Report

Consumers Energy Put Your Town On The Map Pitch Competition is Open for Submissions

1/16/24

Michigan Invests Millions to Build the United States’ Strongest Semiconductor Workforce through Higher Education

Community Revitalization Project in Merrill Wins National Recognition at Mid-America Economic Development Council Competitive Conference

Rural Readiness Grant Program Recognizes Importance of Strengthening the State’s Rural Communities

Economic Development Resources
Renaissance Venture Capital Opens UnDemo Day Applications for Underrepresented Founders

Michigan Seeks Input on Bold Steps to Advance Clean Energy Economy - Due January 31st

Understanding the Mobility Ecosystem

1/8/24

Michigan Aims for ‘Healthy Economic Growth’ as U.S. Economy Prepares for ‘Soft Landing’

2023 in Review: Upper Michigan’s Economy

A Sears Comes Down, Apartments Go Up at Michigan Mall. Is This the Future?

Economic Development Resources
Look Beyond the Now When Considering Workforce Priorities

The Logistics Analysis That Drives Industrial Site Selection

12/18/23

Rethinking Economic Development Through the Lens of Holidays

Michigan Keeps Grip on Cereal-making as Kellogg Reverses Layoff Plan

More and Denser Housing Could Help Build Michigan's Population, Report Says

Economic Development Resources
Join the Michigan Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Challenge Initiative

SBDC Technical Assistance for Start-Ups

Rural Development Grant Now Accepting Proposals

11/6/23

Front Line: Brownfields Offer Redevelopment Opportunities

Are Government Contracts Only for the “Big Dogs”?

Economic Development Resources
Lt. Governor Gilchrist Awards $18 million to Support High-Tech Startups

H2 Matchmaker

Why Economic Development Organizations Need a Staff Page with Public Contact Information 

10/30/23

You Can in Michigan Campaign Off to a Strong Start

Gov. Whitmer Announces Michigan Wins Funding for Clean Hydrogen Hub, Creating Thousands of Good-Paying Jobs and Building a Brighter, Cleaner Future

Michigan Passed Over for Federal Tech Hub Designation but Receives Strategy Development Grant

Economic Development Resources
FACT SHEET: Biden-⁠Harris Administration Takes Action to Create More Affordable Housing by Converting Commercial Properties to Residential Use

MDARD's 2024 Grant Cycle and New MiAgGrants Site

Rural Leadership Fellowship Program

Loan Readiness Toolbox for Food and Farm Businesses

10/23/23

Tax Credit for Business R&D Gains Steam in Lansing

The Suburban Housing Zone - Metro Detroit municipalities are changing their zoning laws.

Bipartisan Vibes as Michigan Lawmakers Seek to Reform SOAR Incentive Fund

Economic Development Resources
2023 State Historic Preservation Tax Credit Application Background and Updates

LARA Childcare Licensing Survey for Community Partners

LARA Childcare Licensing Survey for Childcare Providers

Restart at LTU

10/16/23

“You Can in Michigan” Talent Marketing Campaign Launches to Build the Workforce of the Future and Welcome New Residents to the Great Lakes State

Detroit, Ann Arbor Mayors Tout Partnership as a Tool for Recruiting Talent

ACCESS Among Nine Groups to Get Federal Funding to Support Businesses, Grow Economy

Economic Development Resources
Round 4 of State Land Bank Blight Elimination Program Open

Do Opportunity Zones Work? Recent Research Has Provided New Insights Into the Tax Incentive Meant to Lure Investment to Distressed Areas

10/9/23

Upper Peninsula To Receive $750,000 Economic Development Grant

The Nation’s Advanced Industries are Falling Behind, but Place-based Strategies Can Help Them Catch Up

3 Muskegon Waterfront Housing Projects Receive $3M in State Funding

Economic Development Resources
Build MI Community Grant Initiative

Michigan Business Beat | Larry Mann, Key Findings of Bank of America’s First Mid-Sized Business Owner Report

State Board Approves Brownfield Incentives Program for Affordable Housing

10/4/23

From Flint to Detroit: Changing the Narrative About Brownfields in Michigan

Changes in Global Shipping Influencing Industrial Site Selection

Gov. Whitmer’s SOAR Incentive Fund, Once a Triumph, Now Faces Headwinds

Economic Development Resources
MSDHA Housing TIF Training Sessions

Share Your Ideas With the Growing Michigan Together Council

Michigan SBDC's Free Webinar Library

9/25/23

Flurry of Housing Bills in Lansing Makes Landlords Nervous

Delta College, MEDC Announce $500k Expansion to Help Expand Michigan’s Semiconductor Workforce

Michiganders Under 30 Want Welcoming State

Economic Development Resources
LEO | New Resource Hub to Benefit Michigan Communities via $1M in Federal Grant Awarded to LEO and MML

LEO | $14.6M Available to Help Remove Barriers to Employment for At-Risk Michiganders

Women Empowered to Build (WE Build) Program

9/18/23

2023 Top States for Doing Business Meet the Needs of Site Selectors

Denso Earmarks $67 Billion for Electromobility R&D Investment

Flying High: How Aerospace Propels Michigan’s Economy

Economic Development Resources
Potentially Impacted Michigan Workers and Businesses Offered Support Amid Auto Industry Strike

Michigan Celebrates Small Business Application System

9/11/23

West Michigan Economy Bolstered by Trifecta of Manufacturing, Agriculture and Tourism

MIHI Releases the BEAD Five-Year Action Plan

Michigan Venture Capital Association's 2023 Annual Report

Economic Development Resources
5 Data Visualizations Every Economic Development Website Should Include

Maximizing Employee Retention Credits: A Comprehensive Guide for Small Businesses in Michigan

Become a Preferred Government Vendor Using the GSA Schedule

9/5/23

MEDA Announces New Executive Director, Meghan Swain

Millions in Investments in Bay County with Hundreds of New Jobs Created This Summer

Breweries, Farms, Spas? To Fill Empty Offices, Downtowns Get Creative.

Economic Development Resources
Michigan’s Hot 50 Job Outlook Through 2030

City of Muskegon Giving Out Grants to ‘Empower Homeowners’

EV Impacts to Watch in 2023 and 2024

8/28/23

Meet the Executive Charged With Growing Michigan's Population

Former Branch County EDA Official Wins State Award

Turning a Lumber Yard Into Housing, a Northern Michigan Town Tackles a Crisis

Grant Could Help Secure $171M Hydrogen ‘Factory From the Future’ in Michigan

Michigan Small Businesses Thrive in These Counties

Economic Development Resources
Urban and Community Forestry Grants

8/21/23

Oakland County and Pontiac Partner to Redevelop City’s Downtown via $130M Plan

MI Leaders Want a High-tech Future, a ‘Mega Site’ Could Be Part of That 

Economic Development Resources
States Should Use BEAD Funds to Finance Internet Exchange Points

Gov. Whitmer Announces Investment to Address Early Learning Workforce Shortage and Expand Access to Child Care for Working Families

8/14/23

Mount Pleasant-area Manufacturer Adding 80 Jobs with Expansion

Tax Credits Boost More Low-income Housing Projects in Southeast Michigan

Dexter’s Community Development Manager Receives Prestigious State Planning Award 

Kent County to Partner with Lender IFF on $58 Million Affordable Housing Fund

Economic Development Resources
Power-Intensive Site Selection

8/7/23

How Michigan is Preparing for an Electric Vehicle Future

MSU Recognized for Economic Development Prowess

Foreign Investments in US Manufacturing are Booming

Economic Development Resources
MiSTEM Advisory Council 2023 Annual Report

Stairway to Success Summit: Vendor Masterclass by Meijer Market Format 

Michigan Community Center Grants

7/31/23

Michigan wins 450+ Jobs, $165 Million Investment from LuxWall

Office of Rural Development to Become Office of Rural Prosperity

Center for Creative Land Recycling Announces Lifetime Achievement Awardees to be Honored at Brownfields 2023 Leadership Breakfast - Jim Tischler Recognized

Economic Development Resources
HUD Announces Research Grant Opportunity and Event Focused on Office-to-Residential Conversions

MEDC Emerging Developer Roadshows

Michigan Nonprofits Can Benefit from ‘Direct Pay’ Clean Energy Incentives

7/24/23

Tony Tomczak, Vice President Electric Sales & Marketing, DTE Energy Named a Crain's Detroit Notable Leader in Energy

Whitmer Approves Tax Break to Increase Supply of Affordable Housing

Communities Look for Grants to Stretch Dollars

Polaris Creates First-of-its-Kind Electric Off-Road Vehicle Charging Network Partners in Michigan

Economic Development Resources
Office of Rural Development Survey: Rural Michigan Perspectives and Priorities

PMBC Wellness and Beauty Consumer Products Summit

The Deployment Engine

7/18/23

Whitmer Eases Law Meant to Spruce up Downtown Business Districts

New State Budget Welcomes Everyone to Make it in Michigan

New Technology from Marelli in Southfield Could Improve EV Efficiency by 20%

Economic Development Resources
MEDA Encourages Economic Developer Participation in MSHDA Regional Housing Partnerships Meetings Coming Soon – Notify Your Regional Partnership Contact ASAP

MSHDA Investing in Community Housing Program

USDOT Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Grant Program Webinar Schedule and Information

Office of Rural Development Leadership Summits - Staring this Week So Move Quickly

7/10/23

Buick City Brownfield Plan Would Capture $70M for Redevelopment

Unprecedented Broadband Investment Will Connect Future Entrepreneurs with Unlimited Opportunities

How to Spend $81.7B: Michigan Budget Boosts Funds for Roads, Parks, Water

Economic Development Resources
New/Expanded Incentives for Sustainability-Related Investments

What is Manufacturing as a Service?

7/3/23

Lt. Governor Gilchrist Announces New Investments Position Michigan to Lead Outdoor Experience and Recreational Vehicle Innovation

MEDC Governing Board Extends Deadlines for LG, Magna Projects

Largest Economic Incentive Deals of First Quarter 2023

Economic Development Resources
State Allocates $75M to Create Small Business Support Hubs

2023 Intern Project: Choose the North

The Power of Pure Opportunity: Michigan Economic Development Guide

6/26/23

This Just In: Federal Investments Poised to Transform Michigan

Report: GM an ‘Integral Part’ of Michigan and U.S. Economy

UM's New President Wants to Get Hands-on in Recruiting Companies to Michigan

Economic Development Resources
HUD Makes $2 Million in Funding Available to Small Communities through Main Street Program

Debunking the Top 5 Common SBA 7(a) Loan Myths

DTE Energy Foundation Tree Planting Grants

6/20/23

Gotion to Move Forward on $2.4B Battery Plant Near Big Rapids After National Security Review

First Look: "Shovel-ready" Shortage Gets Bipartisan Legislation

Gov. Whitmer Celebrates Toyota North America Investing $47.7 Million in York Township, Establishing New STEM Initiative in Michigan

Economic Development Resources
A Look at the Recompete Pilot Program Fact Sheet: What You Need to Know to Get Ready to Apply for Recompete

Talent Action Team Is Michigan’s Answer For Manufacturers’ Workforce Needs

6/13/23

Wages in Michigan See Growth, Driven by Labor Shortage and Inflation

New Partnership to Bring More Attainable Housing to Northern Michigan

Bridge Lunch Break to Discuss Efforts to Improve Communities, Boost Population - Two MEDA Members Participating

Economic Development Resources
Wade Trim Foundation "Investing in Our Communities" Grants - Application Due July 1

Site Selection 2023-2024 Michigan Economic Development Guide

With Billions of Dollars on the Line, DOT Program Helps Small Towns, Rural Areas Handle Grant Applications

6/5/23

How to Spend $10B: Stimulus Funds Bonuses, Water, Monthly Checks in Michigan

Gov. Whitmer Plans Group to Tackle Michigan’s Population Crisis

Entrepreneurship Score Card Shows Robust Small Business Growth in Michigan

Economic Development Resources
Pitch North

Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure Program

Access to Capital & Preparing For Financing For Veteran Owned Businesses

5/30/23

Study: Michigan Boating Industry Drives $10.2B in Economic Activity, 45,000 Jobs

Our Next Energy Considers Doubling Van Buren Township Factory Footprint — Before the First One is Even Built

Economic Development Resources
EDA Tech Hubs Informational Webinar (Recording)

VTM Michigan

USDA Rural Development Community Connect Grants

State Land Bank Predevelopment Loan Program

5/22/23

Consumers Energy Teams up With MEDC and Walbridge to Prepare Shovel-ready Sites

First Binational ‘EV Corridor' Stretches from Kalamazoo to Quebec

State of Michigan Signs MOU to Establish Global Semiconductor Center of Excellence in Michigan

Economic Development Resources
EDA is Now Accepting Applications for the Tech Hubs Program Funding Opportunity

5/15/23

Gov. Whitmer Signs Bills for Tax Exemptions for Businesses

Business Leaders Want More than Incentives to Drive Economic Development Strategy

Economic Development Resources
STEM Talent Challenge Funding Opportunity

Cracking the Code on Digital Talent Attraction

VTM Michigan Coming Soon - MEDC Informational Webinar This Week

USDA Broadband Technical Assistance Grant - Applications June 20

5/8/23

Michigan Business Leaders Mildly Hopeful Despite Lagging GDP, Income

Nel to Build Gigafactory in Michigan

Senate Panel Votes to Double Caps on Incentives in Transformational Brownfield Law

Economic Development Resources
MEDC Educational Video Recordings

5/1/23

Grand Valley Looks to Make Grand Rapids a College Town

Hemlock Semiconductor Joins State Partnership to Lower Cost of Child Care for Employees

Northern Michigan Tries to Expand its Tech Startups Alongside Tourism

Economic Development Resources
State Land Bank Authority - Round Two of Blight Elimination Program RFP's Being Accepted

State of Michigan Community EV Toolkit Supports Local Governments in Preparing for an Electrified Mobility Future

4/24/23

Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance Hires Ex-state Sen. Ken Horn

'Opportunity of a Generation' | Gotion Battery Plant Approved Near Big Rapids

Economic Development Resources
Draft Application Live for Revitalization and Placemaking (RAP) Program 2.0 Funding

Office of Rural Development April 26th Virtual Rural Roundtable on Housing Capacity

Urban & Community Forestry Inflation Reduction Act Grants

4/17/23

Market Van Buren Helps Cass County Get $100K for Broadband

Economic Developers Work to Build Public Trust in Massive Manufacturing Projects

In Michigan, an Affordable Housing ‘Emergency’ Looms

Economic Development Resources
$4.7 Million Available to Help Michigan Businesses Address Talent Shortages

Michigan’s $10K Incentive Keeps Tech Nerds and Gearheads in State

Main Street Solution Center User Guide

Bridge Lunch Break to Discuss Preparing for Careers in Michigan

4/10/23

MEDC | Michigan’s Robust Semiconductor Industry Grows

This Banking Crisis is Nothing Like 2009. Small Businesses are Contingency Planning Anyway.

MEDC Awards $1.1M to Grassroots Kalamazoo Housing, Daycare Project

Economic Development Resources
MEDC's Revitalization and Placemaking Program Informational Webinar

Michigan Office of Rural Development - Rural Readiness Grants

Michigan Municipal League Offering Fourth Round of Bridge Builders Microgrants

4/3/23

Complete MSHDA CDBG Survey to Help Determine Use of Anticipated Funds for Housing in Non-Entitlement Rural Areas Program Development and Design

U.P.’s Remote Lifestyle Draws New Talent. Is There Enough Housing for Them?

BorgWarner to Invest $20.6 Million, Create 186 Jobs in Metro Detroit

Lighting the Way Forward: Merit Network and Michigan State University Project Could Mark a Turning Point in Digital Equity for Michigan

Economic Development Resources
Opportunity Resource Fund - Promoting Your Business on a Budget

CMF Members Partner with the State to Launch $10 Million Microbusiness Loan Program

MSU Community Engagement Scholars Program

3/27/23

Gov. Whitmer Signs Bills to Repeal Right to Work, Restore Prevailing Wage

UL Solutions to Develop Battery Testing Lab in Auburn Hills

New Chief Named for Michigan Agriculture Department

Economic Development Resources
Attracting and Developing Talent with MI STEM Forward - How Northern Lakes Economic Alliance Used the Program to Help a Small Business Find Talent

MDARD Specialty Crop Block Grant

Backing Small Businesses

3/20/23

$150K Grant Aimed at Expanding Child Care Access in Upper Thumb

What to Know About Restoration, Possible Expansion of Prevailing Wage Law

Economic Development Resources
Doing Business With the State of Michigan Webinar

MEDC Educational Videos

Announcing $2.3 Million Dollars in Funding for the MSHDA Mod Permanent Program, and the MSHDA Multiple Modulars (M3) Pilot Initiative

Report: New Distribution Centers Raise Tax Revenue for their Communities

3/13/23

Whitmer Signs Tax Cuts, $1.4 Billion for Business Incentives into Law

Michigan Microbusiness Coalition Launches to Support Startups and Small Ventures

Former Wyandotte City Hall to be Renovated into Mixed-use Development

Economic Development Resources
Grants for Build Missing Middle Housing in Michigan

Michigan's Statewide Housing Plan is Finalized. Read it Now.

Gov. Whitmer Announces New EV Jobs Academy Website to Connect Michiganders to Careers in Electric Vehicle Industry

231 Food & Beverage Pitch Challenge

3/10/23

Senator Chang Receives Michigan Economic Developers Association Legislative Economic Development Champion Award

Senator Roger Victory Receives Second Michigan Economic Developers Association Legislative Economic Development Champion Award

Representative Matt Hall Receives Michigan Economic Developers Association Legislative Economic Development Champion Award

Representative Samantha Steckloff Receives Michigan Economic Developers Association Legislative Economic Development Champion Award

3/6/23

No Slowdown In Sight for Michigan

‘Wins for the Entire State’: More Big-Name Companies Plant Roots in Michigan

EGLE Releases Draft Materials for the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Formula Program

Industrial Update: Did the Market Overshoot the Equilibrium?

Economic Development Resources
Supercharge Your Climate and Sustainability Goals

Consumers Energy Put Your Town on the Map Competition

2/27/23

MICHauto’s Glenn Stevens Jr. Appointed to Michigan Travel Commission

Faster Internet & Lower Cost: How IXPs Are Changing the Way Communities Get Connected - 4 Michigan Target Communities

How EDA Grant to Downriver Community Conference Will Make a Difference to Downriver Communities (video)

Economic Development Resources
Putting Unprecedented Federal Funding for Trails and Active Transportation to Work

Michigan Main Street The Small Deal Survey: What We Learned

Meeting the Challenge of Supply Chain Disruption

CDBG Public Gathering Spaces Initiative

3D Printer Pitch Competition

2/21/23

Ford Details $3.5 Billion Electric Vehicle Battery Plant to be Built in Marshall

Ford Chooses U.S. for Federal Incentives. Experts Say It's Just the Beginning.

Port Huron Manufacturer Getting 7-Year Tax Break for $2.6 Million Expansion

Economic Development Resources
MI Connected Future Tour Schedule

U.S. Department of Commerce Seeks Public Input on New Tech Hubs Program

USDOT Key Notices of Funding Opportunities

2/13/23

GVSU, Employers form Partnership to Accelerate Talent Creation in Michigan

New Bill Folds Together Tax Cuts, $180 Rebate, $1.8 Billion Earmark for Economic Development

Economic Development Resources
State of the Upper Peninsula Workforce

Making It In Michigan Food Trade Show and Networking Conference

Michigan State Trade Expansion Program (M-STEP)

What in the World? FDI Trends to Watch in 2023

MDARD Announces Value-Added Grant Opportunity

2/6/23

GM to Invest $650 Million in Lithium Mining Company in US

More Details Emerge for $1.5B District Detroit Buildout and Incentives

Economic Development Resources
Megasites: The Proof is in the Outcomes

New IEDC EDRP Report: Strategies to Raise Local Workforce Participation

1/31/23

MEDA Releases 2022 Annual Report

1/30/23

Detroit Scores Tops for Startups but Survey Shows it Needs to Think Bigger to Stay Ahead

GM to Spend $795 Million Prepping Flint and Bay City Plants for V-8s

Whitmer Announces $23 Million in Startup Funding for Child Care Entrepreneurs

Michigan Tries to Lure Tech Workers After Layoffs at Google, Other Giants

Economic Development Resources
PMBC Bridge Street Local Vendor Event Applications Due Feb. 3rd

CEDAM Community Development Fellowship Applications Due March 5th

Dbusiness 30 in their 30s Nominations Being Accepted

1/23/23

Michigan Economic Development Leader Gets New Contract

Mott Foundation Grants $16.5 Million to Support a New YMCA and Mixed-use Space in Downtown Flint

Michigan May See ‘Mild’ Recession in 2023, but it Also Has a $9.2B Surplus

Economic Development Resources
Michigan’s Statewide Outdoor Recreation Plan Offers Wealth of Insights

How Are Economic Developers Partnering to Solve Workforce Challenges?

Manufacturing Accelerator Helps Entrepreneurs Bring Ideas into Reality

EDA Revolving Loan Fund

1/17/23

Michigan Predicted to “Dominate” EV Battery Manufacturing After $2B Investment

What Michigan's Minimum Wage Increase Means for Small Businesses

The Fresh Economic Development Strategy Emerging in the Midwest

Economic Development Resources
State Land Bank Authority Blight Elimination Program – Deadline January 31

Michigan Housing Opportunities Promoting Energy Efficiency Program (MI-HOPE) - Deadline for Agency Submissions for Phase 2 Funding is February 9

The Challenges of Renovating an Existing Facility Into a Food Plant

1/9/23

Lear To Build $112 Million Expansion In SE Michigan, Traverse City EV Components

Lordstown, Ohio Gives Michigan Hint of How EV Battery Plant Changes Economy

Cadillac Offering Downtown Dollars to Stimulate Local Economy

Economic Development Resources
Site Selection Magazine's State of the States Report

SBA Veteran Contracting Assistance Programs

6 Things to Know About How Development Works

12/26/22

It Was a Boom Year for Grand Rapids Development. These 9 Projects are Set to Come Online in 2023.

New Program Gives SE Michigan an Edge in Hot Industrial Real Estate Market

Economic Development Resources
USDA Accepts Applications for Rural Energy for America Program

Biden-Harris Administration Awards More Than $6.3 Million to Michigan in ‘Internet for All’ Planning Grants

Guide for Building a Community Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

FY23 Certified Local Government Program Grant Applications Now Being Accepted

PFAS: A Michigan Update

12/19/22

Michigan is a Climate Haven in a Warming World. Will Everyone Move Here?

Another Suburban Office Building Looks to Go Residential

Upper Peninsula Paper Mill May See $1 Billion Manufacturing Investment

Economic Development Resources
MICHAuto Summit - Full Webcast

Governor Whitmer Announces $2 Million Grant to Grow High-Tech Talent Pipeline in Michigan

Supporting Small Businesses and Local Communities - Recorded Webinar

12/14/22

Zachary Morris Elected to Three-year Term on MEDA Board of Directors

12/12/22

SmartZone Grant to Be Used for Outdoor Innovation Center

Toolmakers for Automakers See Wave of New Business Headed Their Way

Acrisure Leader Shares Talent Attraction Insights

Pfizer to Invest $750M at Kalamazoo Facility for Medicines and Vaccines - Series of Other Life Sciences and Medical Device Investments Michigan Has Secured Recently

Economic Development Resources
Michigan Green Communities Challenge

Let Your Business Opinions be Heard with The Michigan Future Business Index Survey

12/5/22

Ottawa County Approves $32.7M in ARPA Funds for Community Projects

New Investments in Western Upper Peninsula Announced

Oakland County Investing $1M to Aid Development of Affordable Housing

Economic Development Resources
Pure Michigan Trail, Water Trail or Trail Town Applications Due Jan. 15

Top Five Mistakes to Avoid When Enabling Missing Middle Housing in your City or State: Don’t Get This Wrong

Rural Business Development Grants - Application Window Ope

11/28/22

Remote Work Creating Challenges for Incentive Agreements and Compliance

Kalamazoo Awarded EGLE Brownfield Funding to Redevelop Two Contaminated Sites

Gov. Whitmer Forms Semiconductor Talent Action Team

Why Venture Capital is Vital to the Economy

U-M Startups Raise $760M During FY22, Added 433 Inventions

Economic Development Resources
SSBCI 2.0 Access to Capital Overview 11/29 Webinar

Michigan CDFIs to Form Coalition, Collaborate on Lending Solutions, Programming

11/21/22

Michigan Pitches New ‘Mega Sites' Near Lansing, Flint to EV and Chip Makers

Gretchen Whitmer Announces Nearly 300 New Jobs in Grand Blanc Township

Upjohn Releases New Report: Bridging Research and Practice to Achieve Community Prosperity

Economic Development Resources
Housing Michigan Coalition Supported Legislation

The Future of Freight: Transforming the Movement of Goods

Shop Local Resources for Small Business Saturday

11/14/22

Economic Development Resources
U.S. Department of Commerce Launches First of its Kind Economic Recovery Corps with $30 Million CARES Act Investment

MSU Research Foundation Allocated $8M from the State of Michigan to Continue Startup Investment Program Across the State

LIFT Scholarship Program

Headlines

Parents, Students and Businesses Benefit: APS Breaks Barriers, Builds Unique Partnership

Grant, Loan Awarded for Vault Project

MSU Researchers Get $500K NSF Grant to Continue EV Charging Station Work

11/7/22

Five Current Economic Incentive Trends

Shelby Township of Oceana County to Receive $2.2M in Support for Workforce Housing Infrastructure

Michigan Celebrates Small Businesses - Call for Nominations

What New Federal Funding Will Mean for Making Batteries

Economic Development Resources
Michigan Historic Preservation Network Predevelopment Loan Program

Legal Training Services for Exporters

10/31/22

Monitor Township Printer Relies on a Unique Workforce to Build its Business

Proposal Aims to Improve Ferndale Buildings with Help of Resident-led Task Force

Economic Development Resources
A New Playbook Looks To Help Rural Communities Utilize Opportunity Zones

Free Webinar with Michigan High Speed Internet Office on Closing the Digital Divide

Notice and Request for Information-Opportunities and Challenges in Federal Community Investment Programs

MEDA Member News and Views
Kick-off Event for the Flint & Genesee Business Bridge is Underway - Featuring: Tyler Rossmaessler, the Executive Director of Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance

UP Colleges Help Train for Manufacturing Careers - Featuring: Amy Berglund, Director of Business Initiatives, InvestUP

VIA Motors Announces New Headquarters and Technical Center - Featuring: Maureen Donohue Krauss, President and CEO, Detroit Regional Partnership

About MEDA

The Michigan Economic Developers Association (MEDA), founded in 1960, exists to advance economic development throughout Michigan, and increase the individual member’s effectiveness in the economic development profession. The association’s goal is to provide a variety of services and programs that will enhance ability and skills in economic development.

Through in-person and virtual education on peer-developed topics, legislative updates, in-person and virtual networking opportunities, leadership development, mentoring, and much more, MEDA makes it possible for economic development professionals statewide to accomplish their goals more efficiently and effectively.

Our Vision

Leading Michigan's economic development through education, networking, and advocacy on economic development.

Our Mission

To undertake education, networking, and advocacy on economic development for and in support of our members, partners, and stakeholders.

Sponsor MEDA

Sponsor for WebpageSponsoring MEDA will provide maximum exposure to Michigan's economic development community for your organization and its services, thereby creating new customers and building new relationships that will enhance your growth.

Sponsoring MEDA shows your support for the strength of Michigan's economy as the opportunities support professional development that helps economic developers to be more efficient and effective in their work.

MEDA is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit.

If you do business with or seek to support any of the following, please consider MEDA sponsorship:

Brownfield Redevelopment - Business Finance - Chambers of Commerce - Community Development - Consulting - Downtown Development - Environmental Consulting - Higher Education - Municipalities - Planning - Private and Public Economic Development Organizations - Real Estate Development - State Agencies - Utilities and Infrastructure - Workforce Development - Others interested in economic development

How to Sponsor

If you and your company have decided that you would like to sponsor, please call MEDA at 517-241-0011 or contact Cassandra Jorae at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Thank You Sponsors

2023 Sponsors

2022 Sponsors

A Benefit for All

With any sponsorship package that you select, your name remains on our website for two years via the pages above.

Sponsorship Opportunities

Corporate Investors

Corporate packages support the Association’s goals throughout the year and provide exclusive benefits.

BOTH PACKAGES INCLUDE

Recognition and Benefits

  • Logo on Each Page of MEDA Website
  • Logo on Event Handouts for All Events
  • Logo on Sponsorship Screen Display at All Events
  • Sponsorship of Annual Meeting
    • Exhibit Table
    • Listing in Main Brochure
    • Listing in Onsite Brochure
    • Logo on Event Emails
    • Opportunity to Address the Audience
    • Profile on Annual Meeting Sponsor Spotlight Webpage
    • Social Media Promotion
    • Verbal Recognition

SELECT ($7,500)
Optional add-on of $750 for Sponsorship of Golf Outing.

Additional Benefits

  • 3 Individual Memberships

Sponsorship of Golf Outing (Optional-Add on $750)

  • Foursome
  • Electronic Mailing List of Attendees
  • Listing on Printed Handouts at Event
  • Logo on Event Emails
  • Logo on Event Sponsor Screen Display During Reception
  • Profile on MEDA Golf Outing Webpage
  • Social Media Promotion

ELITE ($13,000)
Optional add-on of $500 for transitional registrations, i.e. registrations can be used for non-members.
Optional add-on of $500 for Sponsorship of Golf Outing.

Additional Benefits

  • 5 Individual Memberships
  • 5 Complimentary Registrations to All Educational Programs*
  • 2 Economic Development Basic Course Scholarships

Additional Recognition

  • Logo on all MEDA Membership Newsletters
  • Logo on all Job Postings
  • Logo on all Help A MEDA Fellow Member Requests

Sponsorship of Golf Outing (Optional Add-On for $500)

  • Sponsorship of Golf Outing
  • Complimentary Registrations Can Be Used for Golf Outing
  • Electronic Mailing List of Attendees
  • Logo on Printed Handouts at Event
  • Logo on Event Emails
  • Logo on Event Sponsor Screen Display During Reception
  • Profile on MEDA Golf Outing Webpage
  • Social Media Promotion

*Excludes MEDA-hosted courses for nationally-recognized certification, such as IEDC and NDC certification courses, in which individuals are charged based on their membership status.

Annual Meeting Sponsorship

Click here for 2024 Annual Meeting sponsorship packages.

Golf Outing Sponsorship

Click here for 2024 Golf Outing sponsorship packages.

One-Day Conference Sponsorships

One-Day Conference Sponsorships Include:
Capitol Day
Economic Development Strategies and Solutions Fall Conference (formerly The Fall Economic Development Toolbox)
Economic Development In Your Place Spring Conference (formerly The Spring Economic Development Toolbox)

Capitol Day is MEDA's annual legislative conference. The Spring and Fall events have sessions on a variety of components for economic development success: new strategies, solutions, programs, updates to existing programs, best practices, marketing, unique ideas, skill-building, and leadership, with the Spring event moving around the state and having tours as a part of the educational experience.

Sponsorship Package ($1,500) Per Event*

  • (1) Complimentary Registration
  • Excel List of Attendees After the Event
  • Exhibit Table
  • Logo on Event Emails – 2 to 3 emails sent to over 4,500 contacts. Logo is linked to your website.
  • Logo on Mail Piece – Mailed to About 5,000 contacts
  • Logo on Rotating Banner on MEDA Homepage
  • Opportunity to Address the Audience
  • Social Media Post Recognizing Contribution
  • Sponsor Spotlight in MEDA Newsletter for 1 Week – Includes Logo, Description, and Contact Information. Logo is linked to your website.
  • Webpage Profile - Includes Logo, Description, and Contact Information. Logo is linked to your website.

*Limited to four (4) sponsors per event.

Emerging Leaders Spring Training Sponsorship

This special half-day is created by emerging leaders in economic development for their peers. Sessions will let you to better understand core areas of economic development down to the terminology used by the well-versed.

Sponsorship Package ($500)

  • (1) Complimentary Registration
  • Electronic Mailing List of Attendees
  • Introduce Speakers (optional)
  • Logo on Event Emails
  • Logo on Event Handouts
  • Logo on Event Rotating Banner on MEDA Homepage
  • Logo on Program Webpage with Description, and Contact Information
  • Opportunity to Address the Audience
  • Social Media Post Recognizing Contribution
  • Sponsorship Screen Display with Logo and Contact Information

*Limited to four (4) sponsors.

Webinar Sponsorship

MEDA's webinar program took off in 2020 and will continue moving forward. You can support a webinar to build recognition among Michigan's economic development community and/or show your support for the topic presented.

Sponsorship Package ($350)*

  • (2) Complimentary Registrations
  • Opportunity to Address the Audience: Introduce yourself and your organization at the beginning of the webinar!
  • Electronic Mailing List of Attendees
  • Event Emails: 2 to 3 emails per webinar to approx. 3,500 contacts
  • Program Webpage: Your logo, a brief description, and a link to your website.
  • Social Media Post Recognizing Contribution
  • Sponsor Screen Display: Your logo, contact information, and website are on display during the audience address.

*Limited to one (1) sponsor per webinar.

For a list of upcoming webinars that are not already sponsored, contact Cassandra This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Join MEDA

The Michigan Economic Developers Association exists to increase members' knowledge and understanding of economic development.

Since 1960, MEDA has provided services and programs that enable our members to be more effective in attracting and retaining businesses that provide quality employment for communities around the state. MEDA primarily focuses on giving members opportunities to learn, advocate, and network for the benefit of Michigan's economic growth. Our efforts help economic developers make Michigan a better place to work, live, and play.

Being a member of MEDA, you will benefit from:

  • Education – MEDA programs are consistently high quality and designed to meet the needs of our members.
  • Networking – An unmatched peer group comprised of some of the finest economic development practitioners in the nation.
  • Economics – You save over $250 annually by attending MEDA programs at the member rate.

Activities, Programs, and Services

MEDA members are provided programs and services that enhance the economic development education, networking, and advocacy activities that are essential to their careers.

Membership Profile

MEDA membership consists of professionals from the following areas of economic development throughout the entire State of Michigan:

  • Brownfield Redevelopment
  • Business Finance
  • Chambers of Commerce
  • Community Development
  • Consulting
  • Downtown Development
  • Environmental Consulting
  • Higher Education
  • Municipalities
  • Planning
  • Private and Public Economic Development Organizations
  • Real Estate Development
  • State Agencies
  • Utilities and infrastructure
  • Workforce Development
  • Others interested in economic development

Corporate Investors

Consumers Energy DTE Logo Small
ITC Logo MEDC 2020 Resized
MSHDA vertical TM Plante Moran Realpoint

Contact Us

Michigan Economic
Developers Association
P.O. Box 15096
Lansing, MI 48901-5096
PH: 517-241-0011
cjorae@medaweb.org