Invest UP

LANSING, MI--   More than 2,700 small businesses around Michigan have been awarded a total of $10 million in grants by local economic development organizations through the Michigan Small Business Relief Program, the Michigan Economic Developme

GOGEBIC COUNTY, MI--   Economic development initiative Invest UP is creating a resource stimulus program to help offset the closure of the Ojibway Correctional Facility in Gogebic County. 

Invest UP members mBank of Manistique and People’s State Bank of Munising are partnering with Gogebic Range Bank and First National Bank of Wakefield. They’re providing a $5 million low fixed-interest-rate commercial loan pool accessible to companies in the region. 

MARQUETTE, MI--   Invest UP is touting an addition to the region’s medical device businesses.

A new holding of Longyear, Able Medical Devices of Marquette began production early this summer. The company develops and produces precision medical components, such as orthopedic implants and surgical instruments.

During a visit to the Upper Peninsula, Governor Rick Snyder visited the 10,000 square-foot facility. He noted the talent pipeline from Northern Michigan University and Michigan Tech will allow Able to continue growing.

MARQUETTE, MI--   The new U.P.-wide economic development initiative unveiled last year has a new chief. 

Marty Fittante has been named as the CEO of Invest UP, effective January 1, 2019. Currently the chief of staff for Michigan State Senator Tom Casperson, he also serves as the legislative director for the Senate Transportation Committee.

MARQUETTE, MI--   The new, UP-wide economic development initiative now has a leader. 

Joan Kimball has been selected as the executive director of Invest UP. A Laurium native, Kimball is a graduate of Marquette Senior High School and Northern Michigan University. Kimball has more than 20 years’ experience in global business development, strategic partnerships, market expansion, networking, and research.