The bulk of the subsidies are to a development near the Grand River led by members of the powerful DeVos and VanAndel families. Advocates say they’re an important project. One critic says the deal was rushed.
Business Watch
Covering the intersection of business and policy, and informing Michigan employers and workers on the long road back from coronavirus. Our Michigan Economic Dashboard shows key metrics that show how the state is performing.
Posted inBusiness Watch
What Trump’s marijuana rescheduling means for Michigan
Marijuana is already legal in Michigan. Now, President Donald Trump is making it a Schedule III drug, marking a major shift in federal policy and recognizing its medical use.
Posted inBusiness Watch
‘Silver tsunami’ of retiring business owners leaves Main Streets at a crossroads
Michigan still adds more businesses than it loses, but business is slowing down as nearly 1 in 4 proprietors reach retirement age.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Ford retreats from EVs after Michigan spends big on subsidies for battery plants
After losing billions, the automaker is downsizing its EV strategy and expanding into energy storage. That means big changes to production at the planned $3.5 billion BlueOval Battery Park in Marshall.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Tariffs take hold in west Michigan, home of former critic turned champion
Tariffs are prompting a historic clockmaker and furniture company to close down in west Michigan, home of a former congressional critic now selling President Trump’s policy on the international stage.
Posted inBusiness Watch
West Michigan has economic momentum, but sees signs of slowdown
The Grand Rapids region saw population gains slow and jobs flatline, but it remains a leader in the state and nation on several key economic metrics.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Lawmaker: Stop demoing houses on Genesee County megasite without a deal
Michigan budgeted up to $31.6 million to clear land it bought for a megasite, in part by tearing down houses. One lawmaker says that’s a waste.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Battle Creek faces life after Cereal City following Kellogg sale
The WK Kellogg Co. has been bought by an Italian candy maker, and some worry about what that means for the future of the Cereal City.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Michigan farm values growing faster than nation amid data center boom
Michigan led the US in farmland price increases last year, rising 7.8% compared to 4.3% nationally. Demand is rising along with development.
Posted inBusiness Watch
Beloved Detroit sweet potato bakery perseveres after death of patriarch
This holiday, one family member is noticeably absent from the hustle and bustle of the daily operations, the cofounder known as ‘Mr. Sweet Potato Sensations.’