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Welcome to Mecosta County!

Mecosta County truly is the "County for Every Season."  There is no better place to work, raise a family, or vacation.  The county's prospering rural economy allows our residents to enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere and a high quality of life.  The diversified economy of Mecosta County is centered on agriculture, higher education, and a broad range of manufactring specialties which combined produces unparalleled economic stability.  

2012 West Michigan Economic Outlook

On December 14, 2011, The Right Place of Grand Rapids hosted a 2012 West Michigan Economic Outlook forum.  Presenting were Birgit Klohs, President and CEO of The Right Place, Rick Baker, President and CEO of the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce, and Doug Small, President of Experience Grand Rapids.  Also featured was George Erickcek, Senior Regional Analyst of the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research.  Erickcek’s presentation, entitled The Economic Outlook for the Grand Rapids Metropolitan Area: Are We There Yet? provides an interesting statistical analysis into the successes and challenges still facing West Michigan.  A copy of his presentation is available by clicking the link above.

Mecosta County is Pure Michigan

In 2010, Mecosta County undertook an initiative to participate as a partner with Travel Michigan's award winning Pure Michigan advertising campaign.  Support from a variety of local partners resulted in Mecosta County's participation in the Spring, 2011 marketing campaign.  To learn more about the treasures awaiting to be discovered in Mecosta County, click on the link below to listen to the Mecosta County "Best Kept Secret" Pure Michigan radio ad!  Be sure to visit Michigan's official Travel and Tourism site to learn more about what our great state has to offer.

Executive Director Search Underway

The Mecosta County Development Corporation is currently accepting applications for the position of Executive Director.  This position is responsible for the day to day operations of the Corporation and for taking a proactive approach to soliciting new business as well as retaining and expanding existing business.  Applications are being accepted beginning immediately, with a closing date of March 16, 2012.  More information, including application procedures can be found here. 

Entrepreneur Training Offered

As a follow up to the basic entrepreneur training course offered in November, 2011, Michigan Works! West Central will be offering a ten week indepth course for anyone who might be interested in starting their own small business.  According to Michelle Herron, workshop coordinator, the training is designed for those who have "...an idea, an invention, or a service to offer people and would like to turn their passion into a full-time job."

The 30-hour FastTrac NewVenture training program will begin on March 14, 2012 from 6-9 p.m. at the Michigan Works! Big Rapids service center.  Pre-registration is required and will cost participants $140 to cover expenses for books and materials.  Ron Steiner, Entrepreneurship Development Educator with MSU Extension, will again be the instructor.  To register for the course or obtain more information, contact Michelle Herron at (231) 660-0253.