FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 24, 2022
Contact: [email protected]
Gov. Whitmer Announces Business Expansions Creating 420 Jobs, Community Revitalization Project, Grants to Grow Talent Pipeline in Key Industries
LANSING, Mich. – Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer joined the Michigan Economic Development Corporation in announcing Michigan Strategic Fund approval of a wide range of projects around the state. The projects include support for three business expansions, a community revitalization project in Sturgis, a new semiconductor apprenticeship program to grow the state’s talent pipeline and other actions that will continue to strengthen Michigan’s economy.
“Today’s approvals will create 420 good-paying jobs for Michiganders, build on our leadership in key industries, and support vibrant communities across Michigan,” said Governor Whitmer. “These automotive, semiconductor, and automation projects in Capac, Calumet, and Holland will help us continue growing our economy and delivering on the kitchen-table issues including affordable housing. I am proud of our economic development efforts that are a direct result of bipartisan collaboration last December.”
The Michigan Strategic Fund today approved support for the Semiconductor Apprenticeship Network Program, which is intended to address a shortage in the semiconductor workforce, including a $1.5 million grant in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) CARES Act funding to the SEMI Foundation to plan and develop the program over two phases.
“Michigan is one of only three states working to define curricula to support employers in the semiconductor industry. With this new apprenticeship program and our global manufacturing and automotive R&D leadership, we are leading the charge in addressing the universal industry demand for semiconductors while creating good-paying jobs for Michiganders,” said Governor Whitmer.
The Michigan Strategic Fund also approved $1.5 million in CDBG-CARES funds for the MiREV EV Jobs Academy planning grant. Announced by Governor Whitmer in September 2021, the Mi …