A program of the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber is in the state spotlight as Lieutenant Governor Garlin Gilchrist on Wednesday announced more than $1.4 million in grants to five organizations to attract new residents to Michigan.
The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber’s Arthur Havlicek tells us state leaders highlighted Discover Southwest Michigan, a program that received $100,000 in state support last year to help people move to the region.
“We’ve worked the last several months to actually build out that talent attraction campaign and brand, and today at the press conference on Mackinac Island, the lieutenant governor unveiled the next round of funding where they’ve expanded the pilot to more programs and entities like ours,” Havlicek said.
Havlicek says the $100,000 state grant for Discover Southwest Michigan back in October was just the beginning for the state’s new Make MI Home initiative, announced Wednesday.
So, what can Discover Southwest Michigan offer to individuals considering a move to the region?
“We’re in a position to offer down payment assistance for first time home buyers here in Southwest Michigan, qualified applicants if they meet certain criteria, and then we’ll also have community tours, partner relocation support.”
The program can also connect prospective residents with information on housing, schools, and jobs. Its website, DiscoverSouthwestMichigan.org, is now live and anyone can check it out.
Havlicek tells us Discover Southwest Michigan has already attracted 167 applications. If all 167 people were to move here, they would generate about $4.6 million in economic activity per year. Of course, Havlicek notes Discover Southwest Michigan does award support based on eligibility criteria.
Havlicek believes the state showcasing the program this week is a testament to the progress it’s been able to make in a short time.
