As we look back on 2024, we are deeply grateful for the successes we’ve achieved together and the partnerships that continue to make Greater Grand Rapids a vibrant and thriving region. This year has been marked by dynamic growth, innovative solutions, and strengthened collaboration across the pillars that guide our work: People, Place, and Prosperity.

Our People-focused efforts have centered on strengthening the talent pipeline and addressing workforce needs across the region. Our talent team has been actively engaging with companies through retention visits, gathering valuable insights that informed our first-ever Talent Report. The report’s key findings highlight Greater Grand Rapids’ growing population, which is becoming younger, more educated, and increasingly diverse. Additionally, our partnership with Vibrant Futures has helped drive actionable solutions to one of the region’s most pressing challenges—accessible childcare.

On the Place front, events like Developer Day and the Place Matters Summit sparked meaningful dialogue on growth and community innovation. At the same time, efforts to enhance site readiness have positioned over 3,200 acres for future development. Placemaking initiatives continue to expand across the region, including key community development projects in our partner counties—such as the renovation of the Slate Building in Hesperia and the launch of Pure Markette in Baldwin. These local projects help infuse new energy into communities across the region.

Our focus on Prosperity delivered record-breaking outcomes in 2024. We supported 20 business development projects that generated $445.1 million in new investments and nearly 1,900 high-quality jobs. Notably, we were able to revitalize a part of our community that has been dormant for more than 15 years— Site 36, the former GM plant in Wyoming. This site will soon welcome BENTELER and Corewell Health, providing hundreds of new, well-paying jobs for our region. In addition to our business development work, Tech Week Grand Rapids saw its largest turnout to date, with over 16,000 attendees celebrating the region’s tech community and its continued innovation. Meanwhile, the launch of the AI Roadmap for Manufacturers is empowering businesses to adopt cutting-edge technology and stay at the forefront of their industries.

Across all these achievements, our work has remained rooted in a shared vision for a brighter future. None of this would be possible without the steadfast commitment of our partners and supporters. Thank you for your trust, collaboration, and unwavering belief in the potential of Greater Grand Rapids. Together, we are shaping a region where businesses, families, and communities thrive.