In this episode, we chat with Brent Case, VP of Business Development at The Right Place. Brent takes us through his career journey, from his military service and education at Central Michigan University to his pivotal role in economic development in Grand Rapids. We explore the strategies behind business retention and attraction, the importance of workforce development, and the major projects shaping the future of the region. Tune in for an enlightening discussion on how Grand Rapids is growing and evolving to become a hub of opportunity and innovation.

5 Key Takeaways:
1. The Role of Economic Development: Economic development is not just about attracting new businesses but also retaining and expanding existing ones. The Right Place focuses on understanding local business challenges and connecting them with resources to help them grow in Grand Rapids.

2. Importance of Workforce Development: One of the primary factors for attracting and retaining businesses is the availability of a skilled workforce. Grand Rapids boasts a young and educated talent pool, with 95,000 people enrolled in local universities and community colleges.

3. Diverse Industrial Base: Grand Rapids' economy benefits from a diverse industrial base, including manufacturing, health innovations, medical devices, and furniture industries. This diversity helps the region weather economic downturns better than areas reliant on a single industry.

4. Success Stories: Examples like SnackCraft, a Greek company that chose to expand in Grand Rapids due to the available workforce and lower cost of doing business, highlight the successful outcomes of effective economic development strategies.

5. Future Challenges: Despite successes, challenges remain, such as the availability of industrial properties with the necessary infrastructure. Addressing these challenges is crucial for continuing the region's growth and attracting new businesses.

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: THE PALMER GROUP real estate team.  The Palmer Group is an energetic team within 616 REALTY led by Eldon Palmer with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the home buying and selling process in West Michigan. To support the channel and all of our guests, contact Eldon@ThePalmer.Group, drop a COMMENT, SHARE, LIKE or SUBSCRIBE to this podcast. 

You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/   

Whether moving to Michigan or another state,, we can help and we would love to chat with you over a coffee or your favorite beverage on us!

HAVE A SUGGESTION?  WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST?  Reach out to Eldon@ThePalmer.Group or send us a DM.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOUR 5 STAR REVIEW
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Video Podcast available here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheRealWestMichigan

THIS EPISODE IS SPONSORED BY: THE PALMER GROUP real estate team. The Palmer Group is an energetic team within 616 REALTY led by Eldon Palmer with over 20 years of experience helping people navigate the home buying and selling process in West Michigan. To support the channel and all of our guests, contact Eldon@ThePalmer.Group, drop a COMMENT, SHARE, LIKE or SUBSCRIBE to this podcast.

You can also learn more at https://thepalmer.group/

Whether moving to Michigan or another state, we can help and would love to chat with you over a coffee or your favorite beverage!

HAVE A SUGGESTION? WANT TO BE A GUEST ON THE PODCAST? Reach out to Eldon@ThePalmer.Group or send us a DM.

WE WOULD LOVE TO SEE YOUR 5-STAR REVIEW