Category: Press Release

Today, regional economic development catalyst Southwest Michigan First announced it has secured an anonymous gift of land along with a $100 million commitment for the construction of a new, world-class Career and Technical Education Center on the gifted parcel. “For years, local educators and employers have talked about the need for a centralized career and […]

Michigan was recognized as a top state in sustainable development practices by Site Selection magazine, announced Governor Gretchen Whitmer in a press released. This recognition affirms Michigan’s commitment to green energy practices and social responsibility while continuing to be a state where businesses can succeed and grow. “We are building on our legacy of leadership in […]

Governor Gretchen Whitmer asked the legislature earlier today to expand Michigan’s Back-to-Work Incentive, which builds off of the state’s Work Share program, to give eligible laid-off employees a $300 per week bonus for returning to the workforce through September 4, 2021. The state is using the federal $300 per week in unemployment benefits to incentivize […]

Governor Gretchen Whitmer today announced her proposal to invest $1.4 billion in federal child care funding to expand access to high-quality child care, make child care more affordable, and support child care professionals as part of the administration’s Economic Jumpstart Plan. The plan helps people go back to work and support their families while giving them the peace of mind to know that their children are […]

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE June 24, 2019 Contact: Ron Kitchens chief executive officer and senior partner Southwest Michigan First 261 East Kalamazoo Avenue, Suite 200 Kalamazoo, MI  49007 269.553.9588 rkitchens@southwestmichiganfirst.com Kalamazoo, MI – Bee Joyful Shop earned the coveted Makers’ Mart title at Catalyst University, a daylong leadership event annually hosted by the regional economic development […]