Resources

In January 2022, Governor Whitmer established Michigan’s Office of Rural Development, which later became the Office of Rural Prosperity, to address the unique needs of rural Michigan, including housing, infrastructure, and workforce development. The office launched programs like the Rural Readiness Grant Program to support collaborative planning and capacity-building in rural communities. In 2023, the Fremont Area Community Foundation, Newaygo County, and five communities collaborated on a successful Rural Readiness grant application, facilitated by the Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership. A contract with Fishbeck was initiated to implement the grant, which focuses on developing action plans tailored to the unique needs and opportunities of each community. These plans will address common challenges such as housing shortages, infrastructure growth, and community promotion.