The City of Houghton continues to make the community a wonderful place to live, grow a family and build a business.
Last week, the Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced a series of grant awards as part of the Michigan Talent Partnership Program aimed at helping communities retain talented individuals. In the announcement, MEDC shared that the City of Houghton will receive $3.8 million of $24 million supporting projects in six communities.
“This is kind of for the fledgling businesses, because the M-Tech Smart Zone does a great job launching high tech business, but really providing that service for someone who maybe they make muffins or a small retail pop-up type of thing,” said Eric Waara, city manager for the City of Houghton. “Where can they get a start in a place that, you know, I termed it safe to fail. But part of that space, the use of that space, we’re going to require that they work with the Small Business Development Corporation and KETA.”
“I’m extremely happy with us being able to win this award. I think it speaks well for our whole community and especially for Eric, who has done a great amount of job, you know, great deal of work to get us ready for this award and to be the only one in the UP I believe is outstanding along with the five downstate,” said Mayor Bob Backon of the City of Houghton. “So with that in mind, I just want to say that I’m appreciative of everyone who made a contribution in any way.”
In an exclusive interview heard on Copper Country Today, Waara explained the state designated one award for the program for a community in the Upper Peninsula. Waara expressed gratitude while sharing the good news with residents and city leaders, adding the projects will seek to continue a track record of making Houghton a place that people not just want to visit, but perhaps even stay around a little longer.
The City of Houghton does not expect to see work start until 2027.
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