Year in Review: Midland Business Alliance with Tony Stamas

Intro by Ron Beacom:

On a visit to Crossroads Village in Flint, our family learned that the first business operating in a new community long ago was the lumber mill.  Makes sense, you need that business to help build and grow other businesses.

A community’s health is tied to the success or failure of its many businesses, which provide products and services and a way for many people to earn a living. The Midland Business Alliance (MBA) represents more than 3,000 businesses.  The goal of the MBA is to support the attraction, development and growth of businesses throughout Midland by providing an integrated portfolio of tools and resources. The MBA also manages the Midland Area Farmers Market and Midland Blooms.
 
Tony Stamas is the President and CEO of the MBA. He has 30 years of expertise in business, government, and advocacy at the local and state levels. Stamas grew up in a business, Pizza Sam’s which was founded in 1960.  He’s served in Lansing as our area’s State Representative and State Senator. 
 
Article by Tony Stamas:
  
2022 was overall a great year for the Midland Business Alliance and Midland’s business community. We had yet another record-breaking year for ribbon cuttings with nearly 30 – celebrating new businesses, anniversaries, expansions and renovations. Our event attendance is also exceeding pre-pandemic levels as everyone is excited to get back out to get out of the house, network and stay up on current business trends.

 Wake Up Midland meeting at Valley Plaza
The biggest challenge our businesses are facing continues to be workforce and talent shortages. The MBA is actively engaged in this area and is offering seven different programs, supporting every industry from hospitality and restaurants to manufacturing. These programs include apprenticeships, internships, leadership development training and more.
 A couple takes an early morning stroll through the Midland Area Farmers Market.
Although the COVID-19 pandemic is in the rear-view mirror, businesses continue to navigate challenges related to inflation and rapidly changing economic conditions. The MBA is committed to continued support as new challenges arise, through programming, comprehensive resources and connections. We are also working hard to address community issues that will improve the resiliency and marketability of our community, like infrastructure, broadband, childcare and housing.
 
Interest in Midland has increased significantly across the entire county, with 54 acres of greenfield made site-ready in the City of Coleman and active interest shown in other available properties. We are excited to see what 2023 has to offer!