HOUGHTON – The Michigan Economic Development Corporation has announced six communities, including one in the Upper Peninsula, will receive over $23.9 million in total grant funding through the Michigan Talent Partnership Program.

The city of Houghton is the lone U.P. representative to receive funds from the program. Downstate communities include Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Houghton, Lansing and Mt. Pleasant will each receive support for transformational public space projects aimed at attracting and retaining talent while also creating business opportunities for their residents. All awards will be structured as performance-based grants with milestones and reporting requirements.

Administered by the MEDC and supported by the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity, funding through the MTP Program will help increase density, walkability and vibrancy in the awardees’ communities. Projects include a farmer’s market pavilion, streetscape and sidewalk improvements, incubator spaces, small business and entrepreneurial support and parks.



“The Michigan Talent Partnership Program is a shining example of how the MEDC’s placemaking efforts contribute to the vibrancy and economic prosperity of our communities across the state,” said the MEDC’s SVP of Community Planning and Development Readiness Michele Wildman. “These grants will help improve the quality of life for residents of Ann Arbor, Detroit, Grand Rapids, Houghton, Lansing and Mt. Pleasant, while also attracting new talent and increased activity.”

Added Jonathan Smith, senior chief deputy director for LEO: “Michigan’s future depends on strong communities and a growing population. The Michigan Talent Partnership is about giving local leaders the tools to attract people, create opportunity, and build places where young people want to put down roots. When we invest in communities, we invest in Michigan’s long-term growth.”

Houghton award and supporting information:

$3,855,000

North Landing — A Waterfront Talent District: Funding will support the rehabilitation of a downtown building into a business and creative incubator space, strengthen multimodal connections between Houghton’s natural, cultural and business assets and expand spaces for cultural connection and community engagement.