Economic Development

The Going PRO Talent Fund grants will benefit several industries, with manufacturing receiving the most awards, 54.

GoingPro grants boost workforce development across West Michigan

Benteler Automotive is one of 94 regional employers that have been awarded $4.8 million in the Going PRO Talent Fund grants. These awards will support skill development and workforce capabilities across multiple industries.

Latest in Economic Development
Sweet Temptations workers make sweet treats every day.
40 years of sweet treats on the Grand Haven Boardwalk

Some say the Grand Haven Boardwalk and Sweet Temptations Ice Cream go together like peanut butter and jelly — or maybe chocolate and vanilla swirl. The pair is celebrating their joint 40th anniversary this year.

A high jumper competes in the 2024 Hartford Nationals.
West Michigan to Host 2025 and 2026 National Adaptive Sports Championship

Grand Rapids will host the 2025 and 2026 Hartford Nationals, showcasing adaptive athletes and highlighting the city’s commitment to accessibility, inclusivity, and world-class sporting events.

Volunteers lend a hand at LHFH’s Critical Home Repair Program.
Critical Home Repair program expands to Allegan County

A $50,000 grant from the Allegan County Community Foundation has enabled Lakeshore Habitat for Humanity to hire its first home repair coordinator and extend service to Allegan County.

A Herrick District Library patron uses the AI Playground in Groundworks. The playground will be open through mid-September.
Library offers chance to explore AI

Anyone can find out more about artificial intelligence by playing around with different AI platforms at the Groundworks AI Playground in Herrick District Library’s downtown location.  

Experience the sights and sounds of Civil War battles during the popular Van Raalte Farm Civil War Muster, taking place Sept. 21-22 on the farm property in Holland.
September things to do: Labor Day, runs, climbs, history, film, music, and a Civil War muster

Highlights for this month include an Irish music festival, an international festival, tree-climbing championships, run/walks, and a symphony performance. There’s also art, movies, history, and craft shows.

Alejandro Fleites Marcelo and Karinna Martinez were the only students from the Grand Rapids area selected for the 2024 Bank of America Student Leaders Program, an eight-week summer internship.
Holland students make a big impact at LAUP through Bank of America internship

Two Holland students gained leadership skills and community impact through their Bank of America internships, working with LAUP and attending a national summit in Washington.

Last year, the Fresh Fridges program distributed over 37,451 pounds of wholesome food to these partners.
How ‘Fresh Fridges’ are expanding access to nutritious foods

Lakeshore Food Rescue's "Fresh Fridges" program expands cold storage for nonprofits, ensuring access to fresh, healthy food for Ottawa County families while reducing food waste.

At Atlas Headrest, Andrew Foley continues the legacy of innovation of his late father, Dennis Foley
Carrying the torch: Son expands his father’s legacy of Innovation

At Atlas Headrest, Andrew Foley continues the legacy of innovation of his late father, Dennis Foley, building on a foundation of design excellence to create ergonomic accessories in West Michigan.

Isabelle Buckler, a senior at Kendall College was a user experience intern at Gentex this summer.of Art and Design of Ferris State University,
Classrooms to Careers: Gentex interns shape company

Isabelle Buckler, a senior at Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University, channeled her classroom experience into her role as a user experience intern this summer.   

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