SAGINAW – The Michigan Economic Developers Association recently presented Steve Jonas, Executive Vice President of Saginaw Future, with its Medalist of the Year Award. As MEDA’s highest award, the Medalist Award is presented to an individual who has demonstrated a commitment to the profession of economic development, dedication to the growth of his or her community, and has a demonstrated record of achievement over his or her career.

Jonas has spent 23 years in the economic development profession, 17 of which have been in his current position. His accomplishments in economic development are numerous, and while at SFI, the organization has assisted 430 companies with expansions and new locations, creating and retaining 18,000 jobs and $5.7 billion in new investment.

“Steve is an economic development professional recognized for his expertise and willingness to go the extra mile to help companies and communities,” said Saginaw Future President JoAnn Crary. “His involvement in organizations from Michigan Works to the County?s Brownfield Authority has made a marked difference on this community and the region.”

An expert at writing and administering CDBG grants and Revolving Loan Funds financing, among other projects, Steve has lead the organization in securing $75.8 million in funding for economic development projects. One recent success of note involved grants to support Hemlock Semiconductor?s three projects, totaling $2.5 billion.

For the past five years, Jonas has participated as one of a handful of Michigan community representatives in the Center for Automotive Research?s Automotive Communities Program. He was the only local economic developer to accompany CAR in the Global Automotive Marketing Alliance on a trade mission to Germany.

He recently represented the Great Lakes Bay Economic Development Partnership at the American Wind Energy Association trade show in Dallas, Texas, and worked at the Michigan Pavilion on behalf of the entire state. Other volunteer activities include having been a member (including co-chair) of the Michigan Global Partnership National Development Team.

For more information, click on SaginawFuture.Com

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