Click Here to Learn More About the Grow Forward Grant Program

What we do

Middle Michigan is a great place to grow a business

Welcome to Middle Michigan!

Middle Michigan is the primary economic development driver for businesses, communities and industrial partners in Clare and Isabella counties. Featuring a high-quality workforce, excellent educational institutions and top-tier manufacturing, Middle Michigan is a great place to grow a business. Considered the "Gateway to the North," our region is centrally located in the lower Peninsula of the great state of Michigan.

We are excited you are interested in learning more about our region and the work we do. 

2019 Annual Report

2018 Annual Report

2017 Annual Report

Business Retention & Growth 

One of Middle Michigan's core functions is to provide support to existing businesses located in Isabella and Clare counties. We do this by: 

  • Conducting regular retention calls on area businesses with municipalities and other partners. 
  • Advocate for area companies seeking state and local incentives for expansion projects. 
  • Connect businesses with suppliers and customers through Pure Michigan Business Connect. 
  • Facilitate federal contracts, workforce training and export growth for area businesses. 

Business Attraction

Middle Michigan works actively with site selectors and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation to promote our communities and the properties available. We do this by: 

  • Targeting businesses for attraction and responding quickly to new leads and inquiries. 
  • Updating site selectors and area business through MMDC and MEDC websites and social media. 
  • Assisting incoming businesses with state incentives and municipal approval processes. 
  • Coordinating with economic development partners for a regional attraction strategy. 

Community Development

Middle Michigan believes the state of the community matters. Not only do we love where we live, but believe that high-quality community amenities help attract high-quality talent. We support community development activities in Isabella and Clare counties by: 

  • Publishing available properties on the MMDC, MEDC and Great Lakes Bay Region websites. 
  • Advocate for municipal partners seeking state incentives for community development projects. 
  • Work with developers, land owners and real estate brokers to promote redevelopment. 
  • Assist developers with real estate tax credits and other incentives.