Match on Main program gives boost to downtown Mt. Pleasant businesses

Two downtown Mt. Pleasant businesses were chosen to receive funding as part of a grant program that supports entrepreneurs' efforts to improve their businesses and create more opportunities in downtowns across Michigan. 

Match on Main is a reimbursement program offered by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) designed to benefit businesses located in Michigan downtowns that are seeking support with expansion projects. 

Middle Michigan Development Corporation (MMDC) helped to administer the grants and managed the grant application process on behalf of the City of Mt. Pleasant.

The organizations worked closely together to review the submissions and put forth two proposals, the maximum allowed for the program, from downtown Mt. Pleasant businesses. Of the 21 projects across Michigan that received funding, both were selected and were awarded the maximum grant amount of $25,000.

“We are excited that so many of our downtown businesses are planning improvements that will enhance Mt. Pleasant, and we're grateful to play a role in getting some of their projects funded,” says Kati Mora, Vice President of MMDC.
Jim Holton, owner of Mountain Town Station.
Mountain Town Station, located at 506 W. Broadway St. in Mt. Pleasant, received $25,000 for its plans to build upon its outdoor dining area. The expansion will increase the restaurant and brewery’s seating capacity as well as make it comfortable for open-air diners with outdoor heating.

“The folks at MMDC were incredibly helpful in putting forth a strong proposal for Match on Main that truly captured my vision for the future of Mountain Town Station,” says Jim Holton, owner of Mountain Town Station. “Beyond that, they assisted me with numerous other relief grants, which made it possible to weather the storm through some really challenging times. As we start our recovery and start to look toward new growth, it’s partners like MMDC that I credit.”

Pleasant City Coffee, located at 205 W. Broadway St. in Mt. Pleasant, also received $25,000 towards renovations to its indoor and outdoor spaces. In addition, the business is adding a wine-tasting bar that will feature a selection of Michigan-made wines.

“This is a very specific program so even though it may not have been the perfect fit for some of our businesses, we have lots of different tools in our toolbox. Our team at MMDC is always looking for different resources, funding opportunities, and technical assistance to support businesses throughout our two counties,” Mora says.

Learn more about Match on Main or see program eligibility requirements at miplace.org/small-business/match-on-main. To stay up-to-date about local resources and opportunities for your business, visit mmdc.org.