Once referred to as the “Sunrise Side” of Michigan, the northeast portion of the Lower Peninsula is an area with a rich history and immense natural beauty. The lumber and shipping industries, which have been at the heart of the region's economy, have diminished significantly in the area, coinciding with the larger decline in manufacturing throughout Michigan. Today, however, the abundance of land and water resources in the northeast Lower Peninsula can well position the region to capitalize on sustainable development and quality of life opportunities that are defining communities for the new economy.
In order to leverage these assets, the Economic Alliance of Northeast Michigan was chartered in August, 2011, and consists of the 14 counties of Alcona, Arenac, Alpena, Ogemaw, Iosco, Oscoda, Presque Ile, Cheboygan, Clare, Gladwin, Montmorency, Otsego, and Roscommon. This Alliance is focused on developing a skilled workforce, supporting existing firms and attracting new industry clusters, while also spurring entrepreneurial education, development, and assistance in the northeast Lower Peninsula.
To help accomplish these ends, the Alliance requested the assistance of the Prima Civitas Foundation (PCF). In response, PCF brought together several strategic partners, including the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, the Michigan Department of Transportation, the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, and the Department of Technology, Management and Budget. These partnerships are aimed to update infrastructure systems, leverage agricultural commodities, and build up state-of-the-art broadband infrastructure in the region. PCF is also working to connect the Alliance to other PCF initiatives, such as the Great Lakes International Trade and Transport Hub (GLITTH), which will enhance trade and export opportunities in the region and integrate them into statewide efforts.
Together, the Economic Alliance of Northeast Michigan, PCF and partners will aggregate federal, state, and local resources in order to stimulate sustained economic recovery and prosperity for this critically important region of our state.
An initial meeting of regional stakeholders and resource providers converged at MSU's campus on July 6th. Subregional meetings and working group meetings are being planned throughout 2011.