The Right Place 2024 Year in Review

This year has been one of resilience, collaboration, and growth here at The Right Place. Through our strategic initiatives and shared commitment to economic vitality, we’ve made significant strides in strengthening our region’s businesses and communities. From attracting new investments to fostering local entrepreneurship, our efforts have resulted in meaningful impacts across the region. As we reflect on the past year, we’re proud to share some highlights that showcase the power of teamwork and vision in building a stronger, more prosperous future.

20 Business Development Projects

This year, we proudly supported the expansion of 20 businesses across the Greater Grand Rapids region, and we’re excited to wrap up the year with a few more in the pipeline. These projects boosted our local economy by bringing in over $445 million in new investments and creating more than 1800 high-quality jobs. From advanced manufacturing to innovative tech, these businesses represent the diverse and dynamic spirit of our region. Here are a few highlights:

• Amway is increasing manufacturing and R&D capacity through the renovation and expansion of their existing facility in Ada, adding 260 new jobs and $127 million in capital investment.

• Tech company Ludus chose to locate its HQ in Grand Rapids, adding 37 new jobs and $310,000 in capital investment.

• Tesa Tape relocated its North American HQ from Charlotte, NC to Grand Rapids, creating 60 jobs and $1.2 million in capital investment.

16,000+ Attendees at Tech Week Grand Rapids

Tech Week Grand Rapids returned for its third year bigger and better than ever with over 16,000 attendees across 70+ events. This weeklong celebration of innovation and technology brought together leaders, entrepreneurs, and community members, making it one of the largest community-driven tech events in the country. Thank you to the 120+ community and business partners who made this event possible. Mark your calendars for Tech Week GR 2025, taking place September 15-20, 2025!

Launch of the AI Roadmap for Manufacturers

Earlier this year, we launched a comprehensive AI Roadmap to help local manufacturers navigate the complexities of artificial intelligence, addressing both individual business needs and fostering regional collaboration. Created in partnership with Grand Rapids-based innovation firm Twisthink, the roadmap identifies key AI opportunities in workforce development, optimized systems, and predictive business intelligence, while also encouraging collective efforts to position the region as a leader in AI adoption. Developed through extensive input from over 60 local manufacturers, the roadmap is designed to provide companies with actionable steps to implement AI.

Four Custom Research Reports Published

Our commitment to delivering actionable insights has never been stronger. This year, our research team produced four key reports that will provide invaluable guidance to the business community: our Tech Report, Development Report, State of the Region, and our inaugural Talent Report, offering a deep dive into the region’s evolving workforce landscape. As you plan for 2025, these reports will serve as a vital tool to help you navigate the path forward with confidence.

225 Local Manufacturers Assisted by MMTC-West

Our MMTC-West team continues to deliver exceptional results supporting regional manufacturers. Over the past year, the team engaged with 225 companies, quoting 342 projects that will help drive growth and innovation. This includes conducting 26 Industry 4.0 technology assessments. Notably, nine Industry 4.0 implementation grants were awarded, totaling $225,000, to accelerate projects across the region.

Prioritizing Community Development and Placemaking

In 2024, placemaking and real estate redevelopment fueled new opportunities across the Greater Grand Rapids region. At Developer Day 2024, over 160 developers and construction firms collaborated with Grand Rapids Public Schools to foster new partnerships and drive development growth. In addition, a total of 28 sites across six counties totaling 3,200+ acres in region four are currently in various states of vetting for funding and/or undergoing site readiness assessment activities.

Our sold-out Place Matters Summit highlighted the continued value in a community’s sense of “place.” Downtown Grand Rapids also got a creative boost with 25 dragonfly art installations, adding a playful touch to the cityscape.

600+ Interns Engaged Through Intern Connect

Each year, our strategic talent partner, Hello West Michigan, hosts Intern Connect, a program that continues to be a cornerstone of our talent retention strategy. This year, HWM supported 600+ interns, connecting them with invaluable professional development programming and networking opportunities in the region. By providing these future leaders with pathways to grow their skills and build local networks, we’re making it easier for them to say “Yes!” when offered a job right here in Greater Grand Rapids.

Supported 14 Executives Through HWM’s Rapid Roots Program

A few years ago, Hello West Michigan also launched the Rapid Roots program. This cohort has once again proven to be a vital program for integrating new executives into our community. This year, we supported 14 leaders from 7 companies across the region, helping them build connections, understand the local business landscape, and make an immediate impact. Applications for the next Rapid Roots cohort are now open—don’t miss this chance to get your newly relocated executives involved.

Strengthening Workforce Stability with Childcare Solutions

Addressing childcare challenges remains a critical priority for our communities, and this year we made significant strides in partnership with Vibrant Futures. Through targeted research conducted with local businesses and employees, we gained insights into the childcare needs of our community and helped develop a comprehensive report with actionable recommendations. This work is laying the foundation for long-term solutions that will support working families and contribute to a stronger workforce.

Collaborating with Partner Counties to Drive Regional Progress

Our partnerships with counties across the region delivered impactful projects in 2024, showcasing the power of collaboration and local innovation:

• Lake County: The Pure Markette outdoor market in Baldwin launched with over $40,000 in funding and strong community engagement. This volunteer-led initiative created a vibrant gathering space and a platform for local farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs.

• Ionia County: Assisted a local developer in completing a housing project by connecting them to the new housing TIF program and securing nearly $500,000 in support—revitalizing the project and advancing housing development.

• Newaygo County: The renovation of the Slate Building in Hesperia, supported by a Build MI Community grant, will add much-needed housing units and mark the first major community development project in the village in nearly 40 years.

• Oceana County: Fiesta Grande transformed a vacant facility in Pentwater into a $4.3 million food production site, creating over 20 new jobs and boosting the local economy.

• Mason County: The Mason County Housing Alliance is driving “housing readiness” efforts, including zoning updates, site selection, and a 5-year strategic plan to address critical housing needs.

• Montcalm County: Northland Corporation expanded its Greenville facility, investing $21.4 million and adding 200 new jobs.

• Mecosta County: 40 attendees and 20 partners came together to view multiple properties throughout Mecosta County at their first Developer Day event, followed by technical resource presentations to assist with the development process.

The Right Place Team Celebrates Awards and Recognitions

This year, The Right Place and several of our team members have been honored with key awards and recognitions—a testament to the incredible dedication and talent of our team. Check out the awards we’ve earned over the past year:

• The Right Place recognized as Top Economic Development Organization in 2024 by Purpose Jobs

• The Right Place recognized among the Top Economic Development Groups in 2024 by Site Selection Magazine

• The Right Place recognized as one of West Michigan’s Best & Brightest Companies to Work For

• Eric Icard, Senior Director of Business Development, recognized as one of North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers

• Julie Burrell, Senior Economic Development Director – Newaygo County, recognized as Crain’s Grand Rapids Business 40 Under 40 honoree

• Andria Romkema, Senior Vice President of Business Development, recognized as Crain’s Grand Rapids 40 Under 40 honoree

• TaRita Johnson, Senior Vice President of Talent & Diversity, recognized as Crain’s Grand Rapids Notable Black Leader

• Kelly Wawsczyk, Executive Director of Mecosta County Development Corporation, recognized as an Emerging Star by the Michigan Economic Developers Association

As we close the chapter on this year, we celebrate the achievements that have shaped our communities and strengthened our economy. None of this would have been possible without the dedication of our team, the support of our investors, and the collaboration of countless partners who share our vision for a thriving region. While we’re proud of the progress made, we’re equally excited about the opportunities ahead. Together, we’ll continue to innovate, invest, and build a brighter future for all.