LANSING –
The Michigan Strategic Fund has issued $700,000 in grants to two companies that
will invest $15.5 million to expand their operations in Michigan. As a result,
some 185 new jobs are expected to be created.
“Today’s
actions offer further evidence of our commitment to help companies grow and
generate new job opportunities for Michigan citizens,” said Michigan Economic
Development Corp. Chief Executive Officer Steve Arwood. “The decision by these
companies to expand here demonstrates Michigan’s leadership in agriculture and
food production with a business climate that enables their success.”
Michigan Brand Inc. specializes in producing beef jerky products for the Beef
Jerky Outlet franchises and private labels. The company is experiencing rapid
growth at its Bay City location and plans to expand in a second existing
facility in the city of Frankenmuth, investing nearly $4.8 million and creating
94 jobs. As a result, the project has been awarded a $250,000 Michigan Business
Development Program performance-based grant. The Frankenmuth City Manager has
recommended that the city support the project in the form of a 12-year property
tax abatement.
Hearthside
Food Solutions, LLC is the nation’s largest privately held bakery and
full-service contract manufacturer of high quality, grain-based food and snack
products for some of the world’s leading brands. The company currently operates
19 manufacturing plants in seven states. The company plans to expand its
facility in the city of Kentwood, investing nearly $10.7 million and creating
91 jobs. As a result of the expansion, the company has been awarded a $450,000
MBDP performance-based grant. Michigan was chosen over competing sites in
Illinois, Indiana and Ohio.
