Kalamazoo Region
Seeking the Southwest
Kalamazoo Region
A Hub of Opportunity
Framed by Lake Michigan and the southern border of the state, the Kalamazoo region features a combination of big-cities and small-towns. Businesses across key industries, ranging from life sciences to craft beer, have made the Kalamazoo region their home. Recently named one of the best places to live in the U.S., the area's affordable cost of living allows people living and working in the region ample opportunities. Additionally, students graduating from Kalamazoo Public School can benefit from the Kalamazoo Promise - a scholarship program that covers tuition costs at over 60 different higher education institutions across the state.
Watch Video
The Milton: Honoring Heritage to Revitalize a Downtown
The Milton is a historic 19-story tower in the heart of downtown Battle Creek, Michigan. This video explores the value of an iconic landmark like The Milton, and shows how its recent restoration helped kickstart a new wave of economic activity in Battle Creek.
Future of Economic Growth
How the Kalamazoo Region Compares
There have been 661 new jobs in sporting and athletic goods manufacturing since 2018.
Gasoline engine and engine parts manufacturing jobs have more than doubled since 2018.
Twenty different Fortune 1000 companies choose the Kalamazoo region as their headquarters including: Stryker Corporation, Pfizer Global Manufacturing, Whirlpool Corporation and W.K. Kellogg Co.
Talent in Southwest Michigan
The Kalamazoo region is home to several colleges and universities, nationally recognized healthcare systems, and household name employers – such as Pfizer, Stryker and Whirlpool – providing career opportunities across industries and interest areas. In addition, life sciences and mobility job opportunities have also increased as well as jobs in the outdoor recreation industry. It’s no wonder the region was named a Top 3 Best Place in the U.S. for New College Grads.
Higher Education Resources & SmartZones
I tell everyone, we are the agricultural hub of the country. Southwest Michigan grows almost everything I need. We source 95% of our fruits from small family-owned farms within a 30-mile radius of our location.
Regional Partners
Cornerstone Alliance
Cornerstone Alliance is a non-profit, investor-governed economic development organization increasing employment opportunities, private sector capital investments and local tax base.
Southwest Michigan First
Southwest Michigan First is an organization of privately funded community and economic development advisors with a passion for helping businesses succeed.
The K-Zoo Life
With access to the incomparable Lake Michigan waterfront, a thriving craft beer scene including Bell’s Brewery, and several unique museums like the Air Zoo, the Kalamazoo region provides a well-rounded experience for residents and visitors alike. Recognized as one of the most affordable regions in the nation for cost of living, Southwest Michigan’s proximity to big cities means having the best of both worlds. The area also boasts a variety of recreational and cultural experiences, from museums and bustling towns to over 80 public access lakes.
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