Governor Gretchen Whitmer announces global data protection company MCPc expanding in Grand Rapids, creating high tech jobs

LANSING, Mich. – Governor Gretchen Whitmer joined the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) today to announce that MCPc, a global data protection provider, is expanding in Grand Rapids, signaling continued economic recovery in Michigan.

The project is expected to create 28 high-tech jobs and generate a total private investment of $2.8 million with the support of a $70,000 Jobs Ready Michigan performance-based grant approved by the Michigan Strategic Fund. The company chose Michigan for the expansion over its headquarters in Cleveland and a competing site in Indiana.

“MCPc’s expansion in Grand Rapids proves once again that Michigan is a world leader in innovation and is continuing to grow our tech and IT sectors here in the state,” said Governor Gretchen Whitmer. “This new facility will create 28 new tech jobs for Michigan workers and underscores the strength of Michigan’s tech talent. As we jumpstart Michigan’s economy, today’s investment is helping to build the path for economic growth and recovery in West Michigan.”

MCPc helps organizations manage both the logistical challenges and security risks of information technology, focusing on the most vulnerable cyber-attack devices such as laptops, tablets, smartphones and IoT devices that its clients use on a daily basis. The company serves clients in the healthcare, manufacturing, finance and education industries, and has locations in Michigan, Ohio, Canada and the Netherlands.

MCPc has added a new device disposal service and needs to expand its information technology workspace and workforce. With the help of the Jobs Ready Michigan grant, MCPc plans to consolidate several operations in Michigan into a new facility located at 1601 Madison Avenue in Grand Rapids. The company celebrated the project at a groundbreaking ceremony held today at the site of its future facility.

“As MCPc continues on its high-growth trajectory, we are looking forward to expanding in the thriving city of Grand Rapids,” said Andrew Shannon, President, West Michigan, MCPc. “We are thankful for the support of this highly collaborative community, especially our partners at MEDC and The Right Place.”

The project will result in the creation of 28 jobs including entry level positions, management and sales personnel. MCPc is highly invested in its employees and will provide IT training for its employees, offering them pathways to higher education and higher earning potential. The company will not only bring good jobs to downtown Grand Rapids, it is also heavily committed to training and career pathways for employees, beginning with entry-level workers on up to experienced, technically proficient occupations. The company plans to develop relationships with high schools in the Grand Rapids area to target underprivileged students and encourage them to pursue careers in the tech industry. Individuals interested in careers with MCPc should visit here.

“Grand Rapids continues to establish itself as a premier tech and professional services hub in the state and this investment by MCPc further underscores the competitive advantages our state is has to offer growing tech businesses – from the strength of our business climate to our talented workforce,” said Quentin Messer, Jr., CEO of the MEDC and President and Chair of the Michigan Strategic Fund. “We’re proud to work with The Right Place, EGLE, the city of Grand Rapids, and other local partners as we send the message that Michigan’s economy is recovering as we get to work building a championship economy here in the state.”

The city of Grand Rapids supported the project through its Brownfield Redevelopment Authority and Local Brownfield Revolving Fund.  The Southtown CIA also supported the project through its development support policy.

“This project is transformational as the city focuses on investments that result in business and employment opportunities, specifically in the Third Ward,” said City of Grand Rapids Director of Economic Development Jeremiah Gracia. “The partnership with MEDC, The Right Place, Southtown Corridor Improvement Authority, and MCPc will make a difference in neighborhood and business development.” 

The Right Place team worked with MCPc to connect the company to state and local resources.

“Information technology is a rapidly growing sector in the Greater Grand Rapids region, with a projected 10-year job growth rate of 18.3 percent,” said Senior Business Development Manager for The Right Place, Inc. Jennifer Wangler. “MCPc’s decision to expand in our community is incredibly exciting and is a great example of the continued prosperity advanced technology-based industries are driving within our regional economy.”

The project will also be seeking reimbursement for eligible environmental activities from the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy in the amount of $943,000. 
 
MCPc is the latest company to choose to expand in the state of Michigan. The project builds on economic prosperity efforts led by MEDC by supporting a business in the target industries of tech and professional and corporate services and fostering high-wage job growth.

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.