Detroit City Wire

Flint, Michigan, known as the birthplace of General Motors and a key strategic site for the state, continues to be a hub of innovation and manufacturing. The city, much like its namesake flint stone, is resourceful and resilient, contributing significantly to the future of Michigan's economy.

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) is implementing its 'Make It in Michigan' economic development strategy to foster talent growth, create vibrant communities, and support projects statewide, including in Flint.

To enhance the Flint region, MEDC has been involved in several community revitalization projects. In April 2024, a crowdfunding campaign through MEDC’s Public Spaces Community Places (PSCP) program supported the completion of the Miracle League ballfield at Mundy Miracle Commons. This fully accessible baseball field celebrated its ribbon cutting on September 6, providing recreational opportunities for children and adults with special needs.

Factory Two, Flint’s first community makerspace established through a successful crowdfunding campaign in 2017, serves as a hub for residents, students, entrepreneurs, artists, small businesses, crafters, and inventors. It provides tools and training essential for fostering creativity and entrepreneurship.

MEDC also supports housing developments such as the YMCA Living project. This mixed-use development will feature a medical rehabilitation facility, office space, apartments, and a full-service YMCA when completed. The project aims to boost economic activity in downtown Flint.

Flint hosts one of Michigan’s Small Business Support Hubs under an MEDC program launched in 2023. Governor Gretchen Whitmer announced $73 million funding for 27 organizations serving as these hubs. The Flint & Genesee Economic Alliance is among these recipients aiming to support small businesses.

Additionally, non-profit organization 100K Ideas helps budding entrepreneurs from the idea stage onward. Executive Director Brandee Cooke-Brown said: “We have become a place where someone can walk in with an idea and receive support.”

The Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has also been instrumental in aiding local entrepreneurs like Jeron Dotson and Justin Bush who founded The Poke Bowl after receiving SBDC assistance.

As home to General Motors’ longest-running assembly plant opened in 1947 and now part of Genesee County’s Advanced Manufacturing District (AMD), Flint is poised for further growth. In May 2024, the Michigan Strategic Fund board approved $250 million from the Strategic Site Readiness Program (SSRP) for land acquisition and infrastructure development at AMD.

The development aims to attract significant business investment leading to job creation and economic growth within Genesee County.