Northern Michigan is experiencing a significant economic uplift, driven by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s (MEDC) ‘Make It in Michigan’ initiative. This comprehensive strategy focuses on revitalizing communities, fostering job creation, and enhancing the state’s economic landscape through targeted investments in key sectors.
Cherry Republic’s expansion in Empire Township
Cherry Republic, a renowned producer of cherry-based products, is set to expand its operations in Empire Township, Leelanau County. The company plans to add 16,000 square feet to its existing facility and acquire adjacent land to meet increasing customer demand. This expansion is expected to create 20 new jobs with wages and benefits surpassing the regional median of $20.88 per hour. The project represents a capital investment of approximately $3.76 million and is supported by a $175,000 performance-based grant from the Michigan Strategic Fund.
“Cherry Republic is deeply committed to the growth and sustainability of Michigan’s cherry industry,” said Todd Ciolek, CEO of Cherry Republic. “This expansion marks a significant step forward in our ability to increase our offerings and footprint.”
Revitalization projects in Rogers City and Sault Ste. Marie
In Rogers City, developer Emily Ree, LLC is transforming a functionally obsolete building into a new mixed-use facility, aiming to rejuvenate the local economy and provide modern amenities for residents. Similarly, in Sault Ste. Marie, Blair Holdings plans to revitalize another outdated structure into a mixed-use building, contributing to the city’s ongoing efforts to enhance its urban landscape.
“Great things continue to happen in northern Michigan,” stated Matt McCauley, Senior Vice President for Regional Prosperity at the MEDC. “We are seeing in real-time the ‘Make It in Michigan’ economic development strategy taking shape in Empire Township, Rogers City, and Sault Ste. Marie.”
Strategic focus on people, places, and projects
The ‘Make It in Michigan’ initiative emphasizes a triad approach: investing in people, revitalizing places, and supporting projects that drive economic growth. This strategy aims to create vibrant communities, attract and retain talent, and foster a resilient economy across the state.
State Representative Betsy Coffia highlighted the importance of these investments, stating, “This is a crucial investment in northern Michigan, which will support our community’s agribusiness economy while creating local jobs through Cherry Republic’s expansion in Empire.”
As these projects progress, Northern Michigan stands poised to become a model for sustainable economic development, showcasing the impact of strategic investments and community-focused initiatives.
