By Alan Fink, Senior Correspondent
The Middle Michigan Development Corporation (MMDC) has secured a $310,848 grant through the Trusted Connector Grant Program, a key initiative of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. This grant is poised to stimulate rural economic development by launching the Middle Michigan Place-Based Business Initiative, designed to nurture entrepreneurship in communities across Clare, Isabella, and Osceola counties.
The initiative introduces a suite of programs aimed at expanding opportunities for small businesses, especially those in underserved regions. These include monthly business mixers, an annual business and startup summit, a film readiness campaign, and a matching grant program focused on façade improvements and technology upgrades.
With this investment, MMDC intends to strengthen the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, linking aspiring business owners to financial tools, strategic mentorship, and practical technical assistance. The program is expected to play a pivotal role in fostering long-term economic resilience and innovation in Mid-Michigan.
Strengthening the Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
The MMDC initiative is part of a larger state effort to bolster support systems for small businesses, especially in communities often overlooked by traditional economic development programs. By investing in local talent and business infrastructure, the program aims to make entrepreneurship more accessible and sustainable.
According to MMDC President and CEO Kati Mora, this initiative underscores the importance of targeted economic support. “This investment allows us to dramatically increase our support for local entrepreneurs, especially in rural communities where resources are often limited. We are grateful to have the opportunity to showcase the critical role that place-based businesses play in building vibrant and resilient communities,” Mora stated.
Key Components of the Initiative
Monthly Business Mixers
One of the standout features of the program is the introduction of monthly business mixers. These events will rotate through the counties MMDC serves, offering entrepreneurs a chance to network with peers and gain insights from subject matter experts in fields such as finance, marketing, legal compliance, and technology. These mixers are designed to build relationships and foster knowledge exchange in informal, supportive environments.
Annual Business and Startup Summit
The initiative will also host an annual business and startup summit in Mount Pleasant. This event will bring together industry leaders, innovators, and local entrepreneurs for a day of workshops, keynote presentations, and collaborative brainstorming. By spotlighting successful local enterprises and facilitating dialogue, the summit aims to position Mid-Michigan as a prime location for business growth and innovation.
Film Readiness Initiative
MMDC’s plan includes a creative component—the Film Readiness Initiative. This program will prepare the region to become a potential destination for filmmakers by educating business owners and local leaders on how to accommodate and benefit from film production. This aligns with broader state efforts to attract creative industries and inject new energy into local economies through cultural investment.
Matching Grant Program
To directly support downtown revitalization, the initiative includes a matching grant component. A total of $40,000 will be allocated for façade improvements, helping businesses refresh their physical storefronts and enhance curb appeal. An additional $80,000 will be directed toward technological upgrades, enabling businesses to modernize their operations and compete more effectively in a digital economy.
Building Sustainable Partnerships
To ensure the success and scalability of these programs, MMDC will expand its team by hiring new downtown business liaisons. These professionals will provide hands-on support to entrepreneurs, helping them navigate business challenges and connect with valuable community resources. Partnerships with local chambers of commerce, community foundations, and educational institutions such as Central Michigan University and Mid-Michigan College will amplify the initiative’s reach.
Looking ahead, MMDC plans to host the 2025 Downtown Pitch event in Reed City. This competitive event will offer local entrepreneurs the chance to present their business ideas for a share of startup funding. The pitch competition is designed to inspire creativity, reward ambition, and launch new ventures that contribute to the region’s vitality.