Traverse City Region
Navigate the Northwest
Traverse City Region
Business Comes Naturally
Northwest Michigan is a magnet, gravitating people from around the world to experience the picturesque coastline and its industry-leading R&D. Thousands of acres of forest support agriculture and forestry, while the area’s excellent climate inspires renewable energy research including maritime electrification and mobility testing. Natural beauty and business success harmonize with ease, creating one of the fastest growing areas in the state. There is no better place to live, work and play than in the Traverse City region.
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Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
Explore the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, a 21-mile pathway that connects visitors to the Lakeshore with the neighboring communities of Empire and Glen Arbor, along with the popular attractions and hidden gems found throughout the park.
Future of Economic Growth
How the Traverse City Region Compares
Michigan's Northwest region has more than 13 times the concentration of frozen fruit, juice and vegetable manufacturing jobs as the rest of the country.
Precision turned product in advanced manufacturing jobs are up 734% since 2018.
Since 2018, there have been nearly 900 new jobs added in the professional services industry, with training and development specialist jobs projected to rise up 131% by 2028.
Nearly 900 new jobs in the mobility industry have been added in the region since 2018, including light truck and utility vehicle manufacturing.
Talent in the Traverse City Region
Northwest Michigan is a talent hotspot. Home to several cutting edge start-ups, talent is not only drawn to the region, it’s cultivated here. Both Leelanau and Traverse counties boast an above-average number of workers with bachelor’s degrees or higher. Northwest Michigan College offers wide range of STEM opportunities including computer information technology, maritime engineering and aviation. Additionally, the region is an ideal location for remote workers, offering a variety of coworking spaces and the perfect work-life balance.
Higher Education Resources
I was trying to be closer to family, and then I found out how much easier it is. The quality of life is so much better. I can have dogs and I can ride horses – I couldn't do any of that in New York City.
Read Barbara's Story
Regional Partners
Networks Northwest
Networks Northwest facilitates and manages workforce development; business & economic development; and community development in 10 different counties.
Connect TodayAdditional Regional Partners
20Fathoms
20 Fathoms is the tech hub for the Northwest Michigan community, helping startups thrive and grow.
Michigan's Creative Coast
Michigan’s Creative Coast is an initiative powered by Traverse Connect, attracting talent to advance the economic vitality of the Grand Traverse region.
Traverse Connect
Traverse Connect continues the legacy and the leadership of the Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce, strengthening its focus on serving all businesses with a comprehensive suite of programs and services.
Where Life Comes Naturally
In the Traverse City region work-life balance is instinctual. Not only do the Northwest Michigan communities work hard driving innovation in high-tech, manufacturing or engineering, they play hard hitting the links, slopes, or setting sail. The region’s incomparable way of life proves why it has become one of the fastest areas growing in the state.
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