At the renowned Mackinac Policy Conference, Michigan’s top business and political minds convened to focus on the state’s economic future. Among the significant developments, the Michigan Growth Office unveiled the “Make MI Home” initiative, a groundbreaking program aimed at retaining and attracting talent across the state. The program is set to distribute $769,000 in grants to five innovative consortiums, with the goal of spurring population growth.
The Make MI Home program, a pioneering effort in the nation, is tailored to foster population growth through region-specific strategies. After a successful pilot phase last year with 20 applications, the program has been expanded, drawing 39 applications from across Michigan this year.
“Michigan is the best place in America to ‘Make It.’ Community-driven initiatives like Make MI Home are essential to our economic development strategy and our state’s continued prosperity and success,” stated Quentin L. Messer, Jr., CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. He emphasized the state’s dedication to growth, talent attraction, and community development.
The Growth Office also introduced the Discover Southwest Michigan program, a pilot recipient now accepting applications for new residents. The program offers benefits such as housing assistance and free college tuition to bolster local talent attraction. Additionally, the Growth Office rolled out a Welcome Program targeting recent graduates and new residents, highlighting Michigan’s leadership in childcare, housing, and local business incentives.
“Our top priority is helping more people be their best selves and reach their full potential here in Michigan,” noted Lt. Governor Garlin Gilchrist II. He highlighted the nearly $770,000 investment in Make MI Home grants as a catalyst for economic and population growth, with particular support for programs like Discover Southwest Michigan.
New Make MI Home Recipients Announced
Details of each new grantee, including funding and partners, are listed below.
City of Detroit ($210,000): The Detroit Tech Fellowship Program will nurture startup talent, targeting recent graduates to foster industries like AI, biotech, and clean energy in Detroit. Participants will gain coworking space, housing support, and networking opportunities. Partners include Detroit Economic Growth Corporation and others.
“Detroit has always been a city shaped by innovative ideas and bold founders. The Detroit Tech Fellowship is about backing the next generation of Michigan founders with the capital and community they need to build right here in Detroit,” stated Justin Onwenu, Director of Entrepreneurship and Economic Opportunity for the City of Detroit.
K-Connect ($200,000): Addressing educator shortages in West Michigan, the Teach Here initiative offers housing support and mentorship to aspiring teachers in high-need areas. Partners include Kent ISD and Grand Valley State University.
“Michigan’s future depends on our ability to attract and retain the educators who will shape the next generation,” said Salvador Lopez, K-Connect President.
Michigan Women Forward ($200,000): The Founder Forward program aims to support Michigan’s innovation economy by engaging founders ready to scale. The program provides housing assistance and mentorship. Partners include Verdigris Group and others.
The International Center of Greater Flint ($100,000): Genesee Future Forward connects college students with local employers, focusing on high-demand fields. It offers housing support and networking opportunities. Partners include the Community Foundation of Greater Flint.
“The International Center of Greater Flint is deeply honored to receive this grant, which empowers us to strengthen the fabric of our community by fostering opportunities for the next generation,” said Phyllis Sykes, Executive Director Co-Founder.
Traverse Connect ($59,000): This initiative focuses on retaining professionals in Northwest Michigan through housing assistance and community engagement. Partners include Networks Northwest and others.
“On behalf of our regional partners in Northwest Michigan, Traverse Connect is excited to be selected by the Michigan Growth Office to receive funds to help retain and attract talent,” stated Warren Call, president and CEO of Traverse Connect.
For more information about Make MI Home, visit: www.michiganbusiness.org/makemihome
Applications Now Open for Discover Southwest Michigan’s Make MI Home Program
Discover Southwest Michigan, awarded $100,000 in October 2024, is now accepting applications. The program offers benefits such as down payment assistance and free tuition at Lake Michigan College, aimed at attracting skilled workers to Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties.
“We are thrilled to officially launch Discover Southwest Michigan and begin welcoming new talent to our incredible region,” stated Arthur Havlicek, President & CEO of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber of Commerce.
Discover Southwest Michigan’s partners include the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber and others. Visit www.themichiganlife.org/makemihome for more details and to apply.
Statewide Welcome Program
As part of Make MI Home’s launch, a Welcome Program was announced, offering recent graduates and new residents access to Michigan state parks, free pre-K, and more. Discounts at Michigan destinations and small businesses are also included. Visit www.themichiganlife.org/makemihome for more details.
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