MMDC Awards Economic Development Achievements at Annual Meeting

Middle Michigan Development Corporation (MMDC) hosted its annual meeting and breakfast on June 21, 2022 at the Courtyard Marriot at Central Michigan University in Mt. Pleasant. Approximately 120 local community leaders attended the event to celebrate the annual achievement awards that MMDC presented to local individuals and businesses. Attendees also enjoyed the keynote address from Quentin Messer Jr, CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC).

Five achievement awards were presented by MMDC President Jim McBryde in the following categories.

• Business Attraction, awarded to MAC LTT, Stainless Division for selecting Isabella County as the site for its stainless tanker production in 2020, and for its subsequent choice to expand operations in Isabella County. When production at the initial site outpaced the location’s capacity, MAC LTT elected to find a new site in the area in order to continue drawing from our outstanding talent pool. Because of their decision to remain in Isabella County rather than return to the corporate headquarters in Ohio, the company anticipates an additional $8 Million investment and over 50 new jobs will be added to Middle Michigan in the next couple years.
• Business Expansion, awarded to Bandit Industries for its incredible growth, advancement, leadership, and dedication to the Middle Michigan area. The company’s most recent expansion resulted from its purchase of assets and properties of The Trelan Company in 2021. Five more company expansions are underway now, totaling $16.5 Million in investment dollars and 800 new employees in Isabella County.
• Small Business, awarded to Not So Shabby Gifts and Primitives in Harrison, MI for overcoming the challenges of being a new business at the beginning of the COVID-19 Pandemic. Not only did owner Erica Yost sustain her business vision through one of the most difficult climates to ever face companies, she managed to pivot her operations in order to grow from a small café and shop to one of the premiere clothing retailers in Clare County and offer robust online shopping options. The business is thriving and is currently expanding both its brick-and-mortar location and its services.
• Collaborative Partner, awarded to the Mid Michigan Region SBDC (Small Business Development Center) for its partnership with MMDC to offer improved direct consultation and support for small and micro businesses. Through this innovative partnership, both organizations have been better able to assist small businesses and startups with organizational planning, financial support, marketing and communications.
• Mike Finney Innovation, awarded to Chris Rowley from the Mt. Pleasant Area CVB for her innovative approach to ensuring that Mt. Pleasant is a destination that attracts visitors and tourism. Chris has long been a strong advocate of the Mt. Pleasant area, serving as the Executive Director of the Mt. Pleasant Convention and Visitors Bureau for the past 15 years. She constantly thinks outside-the-box to conceive of and launch innovative strategies for promoting Middle Michigan.

During his keynote address, Quentin Messer reminded attendees that all Michigan Communities need to work together to ensure that Michigan is a destination for companies to locate and stay. Drawing on the singular strengths of Michigan’s climate, agriculture, talent pool, and reputation as a manufacturing leader, the State can and should be second-to-none for economic growth. Quentin encouraged attendees to champion these messages and strategies so that Michigan can win in today’s competitive climate to attract new industry to the State and retain those key manufacturers and businesses who already call Michigan home.

Watch the Video!

Thank You to the Event's Sponsors!

Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors