Picturing Together an Economically Vibrant Future

We started the year with our Annual Meeting, where nearly 400 business and community leaders gathered to share lunch and to picture together a vibrantly economic future. Highlights include:

This video featuring local kids, flipping the question of "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
2018 successes, including 27 successful business expansion projects, the Zeeland Interchange, collaborations to tackle talent challenges, and primary research to ensure ours continues to be a top choice for business investment and talent attraction.
Recognizing three educators who inspire students to pursue in-demand careers. Two finalists received $250 each. The Visionary Award recipient, Rich Currie, welding instructor at Allegan County Area Technical Education Center, received $500 and his school received $1,000 to continue their work, thanks to the generous sponsorship of Fifth Third Bank.
Cookies and milk for all attendees: OAISD Careerline Tech Center students made 7-inch chocolate chip cookies and Cedar Crest Dairy, a company that expanded in our region last year, provided milk to go with them.

Thanks to Pioneer Construction for sponsoring our meeting, and we are thankful for all who were able to join us as we celebrated 2018 successes and pictured together an economically vibrant future where current and future generations want to live and work.

See more annual meeting pictures

2018 Economic Successes

Lakeshore Advantage assisted with 27 business expansion projects in 2018, resulting in $235 million in private investment and 750+ new jobs in Allegan and Ottawa counties.

“Lakeshore Advantage is honored to come alongside a diverse base of primary employers that sustains our region’s economic vitality through expansion project support,” said Jennifer Owens, Lakeshore Advantage President. “Our region continues to be a great place to work, play, learn and grow a business, and this expansion activity in various industries and jurisdictions, demonstrates the depth of opportunities available for those who choose West Michigan.” See expansion project list

In 2018, for every $1 invested in Lakeshore Advantage,
$168 was returned in private investment to our communities.

First announced business expansion of 2019!

Kaidi LLC Chooses Holland MI for Its First US Manufacturing Location

Kaidi LLC, global manufacturer and designer of linear actuator systems, is establishing its first United States manufacturing facility in Holland, Michigan. The company will create 95 new jobs and invest over $2 million in leasing space, new machinery and equipment over three years. Read more

Pictured: Kaidi product development, medical and home goods industries applications

Going Pro Awards

The Going PRO talent fund awarded hundreds of companies in Michigan over $29 million dollars to train employees. Companies in West Michigan (Region 4) received $9.7 million. See awardees list

Other News and Events

Varnum released a great article and video on Qualified Opportunity Zone Fund Investments, explaining the benefits. Read and Watch More Here

The Community Foundation of the Holland/Zeeland Area recently reached an all-time fundraising record, passing $21 million dollars. Read More

DISHER Corp recently made the top 10 list for PCB Design and Engineering Solution Providers for 2018. Read More

Pure Michigan Aerospace Summit is April 10th in Detroit. Apply to supply to global aerospace purchasers and hundreds of qualified Michigan companies at the state's largest aerospace matchmaking event. Apply Here

Lakeshore Advantage Business Solutions Manager Greg King shares his thoughts on the growth and development he sees in Allegan County. Read Greg's Blog

Attend a Basics of Exporting Seminar at the Van Andel Global Trade Center. Register Here

Need help competing with imports? You could qualify for funds. Read More

Ottawa County unemployment rate remains lowest in Michigan. Learn More

Did you know we were part of this MSA? We are ranked #5 in the growth market for relocations. Read More

Coopersville Schools has a partnership program for engineering and manufacturing. Read More

The 2019 GVSU and Blue Cross Blue Shield of MI Health Check is set for Tuesday, March 5 from 8:00 am-9: 30 am at the Haworth Inn & Conference Center at Hope College. The annual report focuses on health-related trends in the West Michigan area. Email lakeshorehealthcheck@gmail.com to attend.

Ever wondered what the inside of LG Chem looks like? Take a virtual tour here

Thank you to Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan for becoming a new investor.

Lakeshore Advantage Investors who increased their investment
GMB ae | West Michigan Community Bank | Zeeland Lumber

Lakeshore Advantage investor support positively impacts the region's
economic growth.

This news and events update was sent to you as a service of Lakeshore Advantage. We send communications on a regular basis to keep you up-to-date on information that may be helpful to you as a West Michigan primary employer. Please direct questions, comments and future submissions to Kelsey Sivertson at kelsey.sivertson@lakeshoreadvantage.com.

616.772.5226
www.lakeshoreadvantage.com
West Michigan's Business Advantage

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