As part of Governor Snyder’s statewide plan for reinvention, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation^SM (MEDC) continually seeks to support Michigan communities in creating vibrant places. Our mission is to strengthen communities by ensuring access to economic development services and programs that cultivate sustainable projects that will build a strong foundation for the future of Michigan.

The global economy has drastically shifted how municipalities and regions establish and maintain a competitive advantage. Success is determined by the ability to attract and retain the best people and ideas. These ‘knowledge workers’ balance job opportunities with lifestyle, seeking more than just employment when deciding where to live. The concept of placemaking considers cultural and natural amenities, resources and social and professional networks. Visit www.miplace.org to learn more about the state’s coordinated placemaking effort.

MEDC offers grants and loans to redevelop Michigan’s downtowns and foster historic preservation. By encouraging a compact mixture of uses and walkable urban fabric, we decrease the impact of sprawling development and efficiently utilize infrastructure. This development promotes environmentally and fiscally sustainable environments that attract talent and business and keep our youth -our future- here.

Community Development Blocks Grants are federal funds administered through the MEDC for non-entitlement communities to improve downtown infrastructure, re-vamp downtown facades, encourage pro-active planning and eliminate blight. Click here for more information.

The Community Revitalization Program offers loans and grants to mixed-use projects in the downtown. This program is designed to bridge the gap created by redeveloping historic or brownfield properties. Click here for more information.

Public Act 381 (Brownfield Redevelopment Financing Act) allows for the capture of state school mills through tax increment financing for redevelopment projects on sites that are blighted, functionally obsolete, facility or a historic resource. Click here for more information.

The Farm to Food Initiative promotes local farmers markets in a downtown and supports small farmers through various grant and loan programs. Buying locally produced food connects us to our farmer, growing our communities and our economy. Click here for more information.

In addition to funding opportunities, community development staff offers support through technical assistance. With all levels of government facing dwindling resources, we would like you to make the State of Michigan part of your community and economic development team.

The Community Assistance Team (CATeam) is available for technical assistance, trainings and project consultation to local governments and developers. Members of this regionally based team are subject matter experts in all available community and economic development tools available in Michigan. Click here for more information.

The Redevelopment Ready Communities® Program evaluates and then certifies municipalities that display business friendly development processes and procedures. This program aims to assist in the reinvention of government throughout the state, by promoting transparent, user friendly practices. Click here for more information.