Lansing has received an exciting growth opportunity in the form of an Investing in Manufacturing Communities Partnership Designation. Because of this designation, Lansing and 12 other counties will now have access to $1.3 billion in federal funding to help support manufacturing jobs and growth. The designation brings with it preference to receive funding in areas such as, automotive efficiency and safety, road repairs and infrastructure improvements and more.
Backed by over 170 partners, a never before seen number according to Ray De Winkle of LEAP, the designation is only one of 12 awarded across the nation. "It's unprecedented for the region to come together the way it did," says De Winkle. To win the designation, the partners involved had to create a set of strategies that would ensure success in areas like business development support, innovation and job creation, and ensuring a steady work force.
With Lansing as one of the anchor communities, De winkle says, "It really sets the region up for success." The potential grants and opportunities will help begin a shift in the regional economy and really help manufacturers focus on emerging technologies.
Source: Ray De Winkle, LEAP
Writer: Allison Monroe, Innovation News Editor
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