LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) has green-lighted two key projects poised to inject up to 750 new jobs and nearly $18 million in private investments into Ann Arbor Township and the City of Portage, announced Governor Gretchen Whitmer today.
Governor Whitmer emphasized the significance of the investment, stating, “The nearly $18 million investment and job creation of up to 750 new jobs by TORC Robotics, Inc. and Pro Services will support our economy and our residents in building a future of prosperity for generations to come.”
Quentin Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and chair of the MSF, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the positive impact of the economic strategy called “Make it in Michigan.” He said, “We are grateful for the legislatively provided economic development tools that enabled these projects to move closer to reality and benefit our friends, family, and neighbors in every region of the state of Michigan.”
Torc to Launch Engineering Hub in Ann Arbor
OVERVIEW: Torc, a subsidiary of Daimler Truck AG based in Virginia, is set to establish an engineering innovation center in Ann Arbor Township (Washtenaw County). This move is backed by a $3 million performance-based Michigan Business Development Program (MBDP) grant from the MSF. Torc plans to create up to 500 new positions and invest at least $5.59 million in Michigan, opting for the state over potential sites in Texas and Virginia.
Jobs related to this project are expected to offer an average salary of $177,000 per year, equivalent to an hourly wage of $85.10, significantly surpassing the Regional Median Wage of $22.54 per hour. Ann Arbor SPARK is collaborating with Torc and the MEDC, providing job portal exposure and marketing support.
Paul Krutko, president and CEO of Ann Arbor SPARK, stated, “With the launch of its new engineering and innovation center in Ann Arbor, TORC is helping tell the story that this region is where mobility companies come to scale.”
WHY IT MATTERS: This initiative is set to bolster Michigan’s standing in the automotive industry while generating high-demand R&D jobs. Torc Chief People Officer Jamie Swaim commented, “Torc is excited to bring innovative, transformation-driven careers to Michigan bolstering the very heart of the American Automotive industry.”
For careers with Torc, visit their website.
Pro Services, Inc. to Expand Skilled Trades Operations
OVERVIEW: Pro Services, Inc., a contractor specializing in skilled trades, plans a $12.4 million expansion in the City of Portage (Kalamazoo County), supported by a $1.25 million performance-based MBDP grant. The expansion will create at least 250 new jobs, addressing a backlog of orders and new customer demands.
“This investment from the MEDC is a tremendous vote of confidence in the work our team has been doing and the bright future we see ahead,” said Josh Jelenek, President and CFO of Pro Services Inc. The starting wages for these roles will be $28.07 per hour plus benefits, surpassing the Regional Median Wage of $21.52 per hour.
WHY IT MATTERS: Pro Services, Inc., addresses the skilled trades workforce shortage in Michigan. As a licensed State of Michigan Proprietary Training Institution, they are committed to developing skilled tradespeople for various industries.
Jonas Peterson, CEO of Southwest Michigan First, remarked, “Pro Services’ multi-million-dollar investment and creation of at least 250 new jobs is a major win for our region—and a powerful statement that Michigan is a place to grow.” For more career information, visit Pro Services’ website.
MSF Backs Entrepreneurship and Innovation
OVERVIEW: The MSF has also sanctioned up to $9.8 million in funding from the State Small Business Credit Initiative Venture Capital (SSBCI VC) Program for the New Community Transformation Fund II, L.P., which focuses on companies led by business leaders of color in West Michigan.
WHY IT MATTERS: By supporting venture capital funds like the New Community Transformation Fund, Michigan is fulfilling a promise to enhance its startup ecosystem, fostering a more robust and inclusive economy.
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