Why Greater Grand Rapids

Business Advantage

Home to one of the fastest growing economies in the U.S.

Located between Chicago and Detroit, West Michigan is a growing region of more than 1.5 million people and counting. At its core is the thriving and vibrant city of Grand Rapids, the second largest city in the state.

With a strong business climate and exceptionally high quality of life, it's no surprise businesses and talent are flocking to the region. More than 130 international companies are located here, as well as four of Forbes Largest Private Companies. The region is home to the global headquarters of industry leaders like Amway, Steelcase, Herman Miller, Haworth, BISSELL, Wolverine Worldwide, and more.

There is an energy pulsating from West Michigan that is felt throughout the Midwest. Our business and community leaders have set in motion an unprecedented level of growth and investment, cementing our place as a world-class center for technology, advanced manufacturing, health sciences and medical devices, and food processing & agribusiness.

Looking to locate in Greater Grand Rapids? Contact us today

Brent 2022

Brent Case

Vice President, Business Attraction

Brent works to recruit new business investment and jobs to the region. He also assists West Michigan companies during the decision-making portion of the expansion process to outline the benefits of growing locally as opposed to out-of-state.

Full Bio

Workforce and Population Overview

A high-level overview of the Grand Rapids MSA and West Michigan workforce and population data

Data Set
Grand Rapids MSA*
West Michigan*
Data Set
Total Population
Grand Rapids MSA*
1,086,987
West Michigan*
1,626,529
Data Set
Growth Rate (2015-2020)
Grand Rapids MSA*
4.0%
West Michigan*
3.5%
Data Set
Civilian Labor Force
Grand Rapids MSA*
555,636
West Michigan*
794,947
Data Set
Jobs
Grand Rapids MSA*
601,954
West Michigan*
780,498
Data Set
Average Earnings Per Job
Grand Rapids MSA*
$63,300
West Michigan*
$58,700
Data Set
Gross Regional Product ($)
Grand Rapids MSA*
63.3B
West Michigan*
81.0B

*Grand Rapids-Kentwood Metropolitan Statistical Area consists of Kent, Ottawa, Montcalm, and Ionia counties

**West Michigan Region consists of Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Osceola, and Ottawa counties.


Data Source: Emsi - Economy Overview Report

Infrastructure

With affordable easy access to most major markets and a robust infrastructure, Greater Grand Rapids is an attractive location for companies of all sizes.

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Financing and Incentives in Michigan

Access to capital is one of the primary concerns for any growing business. In addition to venture capital, grants, and incentives, Michigan offers a number of business loan programs and financing options to meet your needs.

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