Business expansions, community development project win state approval to invest, add jobs in Michigan

MEDC announces MSF approval for two business expansions and one community development project

LANSING, Mich. – The Michigan Economic Development Corporation today announced Michigan Strategic Fund approval of two business expansions and one community development project that will generate nearly $11.7 million in total investment and create 276 jobs around the state.

“Today’s MSF actions will lead to new business growth, revitalized communities and more and better jobs for our residents,” said MEDC Chief Executive Officer Steve Arwood. “These investments demonstrate Michigan’s improving economy and the success of our strategy to help companies grow and add jobs here.”

Coyote Logistics, LLC, established in 2006, provides North American shippers with full-scale, third party logistics and transportation services. In 2014 the company acquired Tennessee-based Access America Transport and has since expanded operations in Ohio and Colorado. Due to rapid growth, the company plans to expand its existing operations in the city of Ann Arbor, investing $990,800 and creating 80 jobs. As a result, the company has been awarded a $320,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. Michigan was chosen over a competing site in New Jersey. In 2013 the company was awarded a $1 million MBDP grant for establishing its Ann Arbor location and creating 120 jobs. Arbor SPARK has offered support to the project in the form of talent and recruitment support and a marketing package. Individuals interested in career opportunities with Coyote Logistics should visit http://www.coyote.com/logistics-jobs/.

"Ann Arbor SPARK was able to market the deep talent pool in this region to attract Coyote to invest here in 2013," said Paul Krutko, president and CEO of Ann Arbor SPARK. "Coyote is able to attract a range of talent from around the state and country to Ann Arbor; the quality of life and career potential in this region is unrivaled, and an asset to recruiting efforts. This expansion also recognizes Ann Arbor’s new significance as a global center for logistics information technology. We’re pleased that Coyote continues to work with Ann Arbor SPARK and the MEDC as it expands, and grateful for MEDC’s continued commitment to partnering with us to help growing companies in this region.”

Norplas Industries, Inc. doing business as DexSys, is an exteriors product division of Magna International Inc., a leading global automotive supplier with 27 manufacturing facilities and 11 engineering, product development and sales centers in Michigan, employing more than 10,000 employees. Magna’s product capabilities include producing body, chassis, exterior, seating, powertrain, electronic, vision, closure and roof systems and modules, as well as complete vehicle engineering and contract manufacturing. Norplas Industries plans an expansion of its current facility in Delta Township, investing more than $10.5 million and creating 192 jobs. As a result, the project has been awarded a $640,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. Delta Township has offered support to the project in the form of property tax abatement. Individuals interested in career opportunities with Norplas Industries should visit http://www.magna.com/careers. 

“Delta Township would like to thank Magna for the additional investment and jobs to be created at its DexSys division,” said Delta Township Supervisor Ken Fletcher. “The Township appreciates the confidence demonstrated by this expansion, so soon after Magna's initial investment in the Township.”

The City of Hillsdale has been awarded $82,685 in Community Development Block Grant funds for the Mar-Vo Acquisition Project in Hillsdale. Mar-Vo Mineral Company, Inc. is the manufacturer of the Lucky Buck Mineral deer feed supplement that is sold at leading sporting goods stores and agricultural chain stores. The company has outgrown its current space and plans to acquire and renovate the former Stock’s Mill, a long-vacant, deteriorating building located one block from downtown Hillsdale. The project will generate private investment of $132,500 and create four permanent full-time equivalent jobs. The CDBG funds will be used toward a portion of the acquisition of the building. The city of Hillsdale plans to approve a 12-year Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Abatement valued at $117,750.

“All of us at Mar-Vo Mineral Company are both excited by and extremely thankful for the opportunity to expand our business while recycling one of the most iconic buildings in south central Michigan,” said Mar-Vo President and CEO David Wheeler. “It has been refreshing to see the support and excitement this project has already created. Without the assistance MEDC has provided this project could not have been possible.”

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.