What’s happening: An expected 144 new jobs have been announced in Northwest Michigan as two companies prepare to expand their respective operations in Grand Traverse and Wexford counties. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation recently announced a total of $1.19 million worth of performance-based grants in support of the projects.
In Cadillac: The U.S. division of
Highfield Boats has announced plans to expand its stateside production capabilities by repurposing a shipping and distribution center that has been vacant for several years, transforming it into a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility for the brand’s rubber inflatable boats.
“Our investment in Michigan marks the company’s first major investment to the U.S. market and we chose Cadillac for its rich legacy in recreational boat building and the unwavering support of both the local and statewide communities,” says Christophe Lavigne, President Highfield USA. “The confidence demonstrated by Marcus Peccia and the Cadillac team played a crucial role in ensuring the success of this investment. On behalf of the Board of Directors, I would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all parties involved for their unwavering support of our project.”
The $3.1 million development is receiving a $990,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant from the Michigan Strategic Fund, this on the strength of its promise to create 110 new jobs with an average wage of $24 per hour plus benefits.
In Traverse City: Cambium Analytica has announced expansion plans of their own through the purchase of new laboratory equipment that will support increased capacity both at Cambium and its new Turquoise Environmental subsidiary. Cambium Analytica was founded in Traverse City in 2019 and provides analytical testing, product development, and contract research for companies in the natural foods, dietary supplements, and botanical products industries.
"Turquoise Environmental has built its new PFAS testing laboratory in Traverse City, a community that deeply values the protection of Michigan’s natural resources,” says Alex Adams, Co-Founder and CEO of Cambium. “Our commitment is clear: to be an impactful partner in safeguarding our valuable freshwater ecosystems and the well-being of current and future generations of Michigan residents."
The $1.2 million development is receiving a $200,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant from the Michigan Strategic Fund, this on the strength of its promise to create 34 new jobs with an average wage of $26.80 per hour plus benefits.
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