MMDC Secures Match on Main Grants for Three Local Businesses, Fueling Downtown Growth Across Clare, Harrison, and Mt. Pleasant

August 01, 2025

Middle Michigan Development Corporation (MMDC) is proud to announce that three local businesses have been selected as recipients of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s Match on Main grant program. In total, over $62,000 will be invested across downtown Clare, Harrison, and Mt. Pleasant to support transformational small business projects that enhance community vibrancy, support entrepreneurship, and create long-term sustainability.

Cardinal & Clover – Clare, MI – $25,000.00
Cardinal & Clover will revitalize underutilized space at 420 N. McEwan St. by transforming it into vibrant co-working and community space. The project also includes creating interactive outdoor areas such as a selfie park and installing bicycle infrastructure to attract foot traffic and increase overall efficiency and accessibility.

989 Furniture – Harrison, MI – $14,865.30
As the business continues to grow, 989 Furniture will remodel and convert a current storage warehouse into expanded showroom space. This transition will allow the business to showcase more inventory and improve customer experience, while added exterior signage will help drive visibility and promote the new services available in downtown Harrison.

Mt. Pleasant School of Dance – Mt. Pleasant, MI – $22,756.91
Match on Main funds will support the transformation of a current studio into a fully functional Black Box performance venue. This project enhances the arts scene in downtown Mt. Pleasant by increasing access to local performances, hiring Michigan-based artists, and providing a space for collaborative cultural events-bringing to life a long-standing vision of the studio and enriching the creative community.

“These projects are excellent examples of how targeted investment can unlock the full potential of our downtown spaces,” said Kati Mora, President and CEO at MMDC. “By supporting local entrepreneurs and investing in spaces that create opportunity, connection, and vibrancy, we’re strengthening the economic fabric of our region.”

The Match on Main program, administered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, supports small business growth in Michigan’s downtowns and traditional commercial districts by providing funding for building renovations, façade improvements, and other strategic investments.

For a full list of businesses across the Michigan supported through this program, visit michiganbusiness.org.

Tags: small business, match on main, downtown business

Previous Page