Economic Development

Calli Ruffertshofer, a long-time customer in Downtown Bay City, has opened her own boutique business, Fran & Dot.

A love of fashion and style leads teacher to a new business venture in Downtown Bay City

Calli Ruffertshofer, a long-time customer in Downtown Bay City, has opened her own boutique business, Fran & Dot. She says the store will emphasize style, bling, and personal service.  

Latest in Economic Development
EMCOG to host housing review and workshop on Feb. 20 at SVSU

The East Michigan Council of Governments (EMCOG) will host a housing review and workshop on Feb. 20 at Saginaw Valley State University to discuss Region G's housing plan.

The Bay-Arenac ISD Career Center emphasizes career and technical education through a combination of academics and work experience. Students also are encouraged to join clubs that teach professional skills.
Voices of Youth: Clubs at the Bay-Arenac Career Center help students gain real-world experience

Six different clubs help students at the Bay-Arenac ISD Career Center get hands-on experience and insight into careers ranging from farming and marketing to health care and finance.

Mark Witte chats with OnPoint staff: from left,  Andre Pierre, Jr., chief administrative officer; Kelly Dingman, accounting supervisor, and Sarah Lumbert, general accountant.
OnPoint: The many professional roles within mental health care

Michigan’s community mental health agencies need more psychiatrists, psychologists, and master’s level social workers, but they also need bachelor’s level social workers, administrative staff,  peer support specialists, accountants, and direct care workers — roles that require no college degree or degrees in areas not relating directly to mental health. 

Welding is an in-demand career, prompting the Bay-Arenac ISD to offer training programs for adults and high school students.
Voices of Youth: Exercise and diet pump health into your heart

During February, we celebrate heartfelt love and health. The American Heart Association encourages everyone to focus on simple exercise and diet tips for a healthier heart.  

Michigan Sugar Company President and CEO Neil Juhnke addresses grower-owners from the cooperative's East District during a Tool Shed meeting held in April 2023 at Maple Grove Acres in Ruth. (Photo courtesy of Michigan Sugar)
A behind-the-scenes look at Bay Future’s economic development playbook

Natural resources, strong local colleges, easy access to other markets, and other factors all play a role when Bay Future seeks to attract and retain businesses in Bay County.  

Michigan student loan repayment program helping to tackle mental health workforce shortage

Michigan has long faced a critical shortage of mental health professionals, impacting access to vital care for communities across the state. To address this growing challenge, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) launched the Behavioral Health Now Loan Repayment Program, a strategic initiative aimed at attracting and retaining mental health professionals by alleviating the financial burden of student loans.

NASA HUNCH brings real-world space exploration to Midland Public Schools

Midland Public Schools welcomed NASA experts from the HUNCH program, inspiring students in STEM projects like Dow High’s Space Farmers.

New restaurant brings flavorful cuisine to Downtown Midland

A new tapas and brunch restaurant opened its doors at 134 W. Main St. in downtown Midland. Erik Swenson, owner and executive chef, brings flavorful cuisine on the daily menu, Seafood Saturday, Sunday Brunch, and special pop-up themed events.

Midland Young Professionals Program expands membership and community impact

The Midland Business Alliance’s MYPros program celebrates success with over 100 new members, $200,000 toward local businesses, and big plans for 2025.

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