Northern Michigan combines thriving industries, natural beauty, an exceptional quality of life, and a skilled workforce—making it an ideal place to start, grow, or relocate your business.
The NLEA service area has a robust and diverse manufacturing sector with businesses producing plastics, medical devices, automotive testing equipment, outdoor recreation gear, aerospace components, and more. The region’s concentration of Plastics and Rubber Manufacturing and Machinery Manufacturing jobs are markedly higher than the national average. Multiple manufacturers are equipped to support specialized, limited production runs to meet the unique needs of different industries.
Abundant natural resources combined with reliable access to freshwater have created a recipe for success in the region. From a nationally recognized wine region to highly sought after heritage rye for distilling, the region is nationally recognized for its agricultural products. Robust and diverse production has created a competitive advantage in the value-added agriculture and food processing industries as well. For example, the local craft beverage industry has outpaced the national growth rate in recent years.
In 2023, Michigan’s outdoor industry generated $13.9 billion in GDP. Northern Lower Michigan’s abundance of natural assets makes it an ideal place to design, test, produce, and use all types of outdoor equipment. In the gear space, we have producers doing everything from developing patent-pending pickleball technology to building custom mountain bike frames to carbon fiber ski poles. The region’s immense freshwater resources are the perfect environment for boat builders to push the limits of what is possible, for the creation of paddle boards that are rideable art, and for testing a new line of fishing lures. Beyond those making the gear, the region has countless opportunities to get outdoors from endless trails to Midwest leaders in outdoor access facilitators.
From heavy civil to residential, the region’s construction industry is defined by skilled companies and workers. The industry is supported by credentialed and skills training in welding, construction trades, woodworking, and more at the secondary and post-secondary levels. Of note, Cheboygan is home to two national leaders in marine construction, Ryba Marine Construction and Kokosing.
The region’s unparalleled natural beauty and unique character have made it a renowned tourist and outdoor recreation destination for generations. From inclusive resorts to charming mom-and-pop establishments, the region has a breadth of experiences to offer and opportunities to grow.
A strong healthcare network of in-patient and out-patient facilities provides essential medical services, supporting the well-being of communities across the region. With two award-winning hospitals and an established accredited talent pipeline, the industry is well-positioned for continued success.
Northern Michigan offers unmatched quality of life—with natural beauty, a strong community, and a growing economy—making it ideal for careers, business, and work-life balance.
Several state and local incentives are available to help you invest in our region. The NLEA can help you identify and apply for available incentives and grants. Learn more about our services.
From beautiful waterfronts and outdoor recreation to excellent schools and vibrant communities, Northern Michigan offers a lifestyle that blends opportunity with natural beauty.
More young talent and families are moving to rural areas to enjoy the natural beauty, year-round recreational opportunities, unique small businesses, and authentic downtowns. Our region offers all that and more to retain and attract talent. We’re committed to cultivating a strong talent pipeline to support your industry.
Our area hosts award-winning CTE programs that give high school students the skills to join your team.
The North Central Michigan College fast-track program is designed to provide accelerated training and education for in-demand careers.
Leadership programming empowers young professionals with the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to drive economic growth and community development.
Michigan Works! provides essential workforce development services, connecting job seekers with training opportunities and employers with skilled talent to strengthen the regional economy.
The Going PRO Talent Fund helps Michigan employers train, develop, and retain skilled workers by providing funding for industry-recognized training programs.
We’re experiencing a housing shortage like the rest of the country. The difference? We’re building, and we’re doing it with our robust construction workforce. Here are just some of the housing projects on the way to house your workforce.
We can help you identify a site for future purchase and development based on your project goals. We manage available sites for the region on the state of Michigan’s Real Estate Database. Contact us to discuss.
NLEA recognizes that affordable, accessible housing is essential for attracting and retaining a strong workforce. We collaborate with local governments, developers, and businesses to support workforce housing initiatives that meet the region’s growing demand.
Our newsletter offers up-to-date information on events, funding opportunities, and other resources
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