Business expansions win state support to invest in Michigan, add jobs

MEDC announces two companies were approved for incentives by the MSF to support their expansions in the state

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Economic Development Corporation today announced that two companies were approved for incentives by the Michigan Strategic Fund to support their expansions in the state. The projects are expected to generate nearly $15.5 million in investments and create 185 new jobs.

“Today’s actions offer further evidence of our commitment to help companies grow and generate new job opportunities for Michigan citizens,” said MEDC Chief Executive Officer Steve Arwood. “The decision by these companies to expand here demonstrates Michigan’s leadership in agriculture and food production with a business climate that enables their success.”

Michigan Brand Inc. specializes in producing beef jerky products for the Beef Jerky Outlet franchises and private labels. The company is experiencing rapid growth at its Bay City location and plans to expand in a second existing facility in the city of Frankenmuth, investing nearly $4.8 million and creating 94 jobs. As a result, the project has been awarded a $250,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. The Frankenmuth City Manager has recommended that the city support the project in the form of a 12-year property tax abatement.

Hearthside Food Solutions, LLC is the nation’s largest privately held bakery and full-service contract manufacturer of high quality, grain-based food and snack products for some of the world’s leading brands. The company currently operates 19 manufacturing plants in seven states. The company plans to expand its facility in the city of Kentwood, investing nearly $10.7 million and creating 91 jobs. As a result of the expansion, the company has been awarded a $450,000 MBDP performance-based grant. Michigan was chosen over competing sites in Illinois, Indiana and Ohio. The Right Place has offered support to the project in the form of staff time and resources. Individuals interested in careers with Hearthside Food Solutions should visit www.hearthsidefoods.com/careers.

Pure Michigan is a brand representing business, talent and tourism initiatives across Michigan. These efforts are driven by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which serves as the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business growth, jobs and opportunity with a focus on helping grow Michigan’s economy. 

About Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC)

The Michigan Economic Development Corporation is the state’s marketing arm and lead advocate for business development, job awareness and community development with the focus on growing Michigan’s economy. For more information on the MEDC and our initiatives, visit www.MichiganBusiness.org. For Pure Michigan® tourism information, your trip begins at www.michigan.org. Join the conversation on: Facebook Instagram LinkedIn, and Twitter.