Great Lakes Capital Fund expands into renovated REO Town building

The REO Town-based Great Lakes Capital Fund may not have moved their headquarters far in terms of distance, but the nonprofit community development finance organization's new digs are helping them move forward in a big way. The GLCF's new space in the recently redeveloped historic building at 1118 S. Washington Ave. gives the organization more space, new amenities and expanded communications technology.

 

"From a technological standpoint, we'll be able to do a lot more with our staff, and also with our partners and our investors," says Kelly R. Bernero, GLCF advocacy and public relations specialist. "We're looking forward to using video conferencing in training, and to connect with people all over the country on a more personal basis."

 

The new space also includes a workout facility and showers and a larger conference room and collaboration areas for GLCF staff. The non-profit employs about 50 employees nationwide, including 35 in the Lansing office. Between 2011 and 2012, GLCF hired 14 new employees. 

 

GLCF is also expanding its programming with the recent launch of Develop Michigan, a not-for-profit development finance organization, created in partnership with the State of Michigan and the Development Finance Group.

 

"Development Michigan will be one of the partners that transforms some of the larger development project in the state," says Bernero. 

 

The GLCF will share some space in the former Michigan Electric Building with Community Economic Development Association of Michigan. A forthcoming restaurant and luxury apartment will also be located in the 27,000 square foot, 1901 building.