Michigan’s Economic Growth Spurred by Business Expansions in Muskegon and Washtenaw Counties
LANSING, Mich. – In a significant boost to Michigan’s economy, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced two key business expansion projects in Muskegon and Washtenaw counties. These initiatives promise over $13.4 million in capital investment and the creation of 115 high-quality jobs.
“Michigan is on the move and open for business, competing for and winning big projects in next-generation industries from cars to AI,” stated Governor Whitmer. “Today’s announcement will create 115 new good-paying jobs and help cement Michigan as the best place for cutting-edge research and development that moves our nation forward.”
Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist II echoed the sentiment, highlighting Michigan’s tradition of innovation. “Michigan has always been home to innovators and entrepreneurs building something new and working tirelessly to push our state forward,” he said. “Motiv Bowling and Utilidata’s announcement will create good-paying jobs and build on Michigan’s leadership in manufacturing and AI.”
Matt McCauley, Senior Vice President of Regional Development at the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), emphasized the state’s business-friendly atmosphere. “Over the past week, we have announced that four small businesses have chosen to expand their operations in the state to meet growing customer demand,” he remarked.
Motiv Bowling’s Expansion in Roosevelt Park
Motiv Bowling, a leader in competitive bowling equipment manufacturing, plans to acquire a new 96,000-square-foot facility in Roosevelt Park. This expansion follows a 20% sales growth over recent years and aims to enhance production capabilities to meet increasing demand.
President of Motiv Bowling, W. Scott Wilbur, expressed gratitude for the support from state entities, stating, “The opportunity and encouragement provided by the State, the MEDC, The Greater Muskegon Economic Development Corporation, and the City of Roosevelt Park will allow us to continue to produce the world’s best bowling products here in the United States.”
The project is expected to generate at least $8.975 million in capital investment and create 90 new jobs with wages starting at $24 per hour, surpassing the regional median wage. The Michigan Strategic Fund (MSF) supports this initiative with a $540,000 performance-based grant from the Michigan Business Development Program (MBDP).
Utilidata’s Innovation in Ann Arbor
Utilidata, Inc., a company at the forefront of power infrastructure efficiency, is also expanding in Ann Arbor. This move includes a new 15,000 square-foot headquarters and innovation lab to further develop its AI solutions for power management.
CEO Josh Brumburger expressed enthusiasm about the expansion, noting, “AI is pushing data centers to their power limits, creating complex energy challenges. Operators need better tools to maximize their infrastructure.”
Utilidata’s project anticipates a $4,475,961 capital investment and the creation of 25 new jobs with starting wages of $37.14 per hour. The MSF is supporting this effort with a $250,000 MBDP grant, and additional assistance is provided by MichiganWorks! and Ann Arbor SPARK.
As these projects unfold, Michigan continues to leverage its strategic position in the innovation ecosystem, further solidifying its status as a hub for cutting-edge research and development.
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