LANSING – State Representative Richard E. Hammel (D-Mt. Morris Township) today praised the announcement that the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) has awarded $250,000 to Kettering University to help support new and developing businesses in the area.
"This award is an indicator of the economic development potential that Kettering offers our community," said Hammel, Chair of the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Economic Development. "I am encouraged by the collaborative efforts made by multiple partners throughout the county to secure this award. My hope is that this money will help TechWorks grow its research facilities; attract entrepreneurs and further solidify Kettering's reputation as a leader in research and development."
The funds will go to Kettering University TechWorks, which provides assistance and support to businesses looking to grow and expand. TechWorks is actively focused on high-tech companies by providing sustainable advanced technologies such as those in the life sciences, alternative energy and advanced manufacturing.
Kettering officials said the $250,000 will help accelerate new technologies that TechWorks will bring to investors and the marketplace as they attempt to help local businesses succeed and create jobs.
Hammel has long fought to increase funding for economic development as the Vice-Chair of the House Appropriations Committee, including his support for the MEDC program, which provides business incubators like TechWorks with competitive grants. Kettering was one of the five programs across Michigan to receive funds today.
"This has been an uphill climb, but I'm happy to see that the state is finally recognizing some of the good things that are happening in our community," Hammel said. "By supporting investment opportunities like these, we can spur economic development in Genesee County and create new good-paying jobs for our workers. I look forward to working with Kettering in the coming months in this effort to create a better business climate and get our workers back on the job."