Southwest Michigan First is seeking a motivated Economic Development Associate to support business retention, expansion, and attraction efforts across the region. This role focuses on building relationships with local businesses, supporting development projects, and contributing to initiatives that drive investment and job creation.

Key Responsibilities

• Support business retention and expansion efforts by maintaining relationships with assigned companies and identifying their needs.
• Assist with company growth and development projects, including tracking progress and coordinating resources.
• Collaborate with internal teams to support regional economic development strategies and initiatives.
• Help businesses and developers navigate local and state processes, including permitting and approvals.
• Attend public meetings and support presentations in collaboration with the Economic Development and Public Policy teams, helping represent business and development interests.
• Assist with identifying and pursuing state and federal funding opportunities, including supporting grant research and application preparation.
• Support coordination with local stakeholders including elected officials, municipal staff, community partners, and educational institutions to advance project opportunities and regional economic initiatives.
• Assist in preparing responses to RFPs, RFIs, and other business inquiries.
• Support grant research and application efforts for state and federal funding opportunities.
• Participate in community, board, and stakeholder meetings as assigned.
• Maintain data on available commercial and industrial properties.
• Contribute to special programs, events, and outreach efforts for the business community.
• Provide general project coordination and administrative support to the Economic Development Team.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in economic development, urban planning, business or public administration, or a related field.
• 1–3 years of relevant experience (internships or related experience considered).
• Basic knowledge of economic development tools (e.g., incentives, redevelopment programs) is a plus.
• Strong communication, organization, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and support project coordination.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM systems.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively.
• Professionalism in working with business leaders, community partners, and public officials.
• Reliable transportation required.

Why Southwest Michigan First?

• Competitive Insurance Benefits Package: Our comprehensive insurance package ensures you and your family are covered with health and dental plans that meet your needs.
• Employer-Paid Life Insurance: We prioritize your well-being by providing life insurance coverage at no cost to you, offering peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
• Employer-Paid HSA (Health Savings Account): Take advantage of our HSA to save on medical expenses with pre-tax dollars, enhancing your financial wellness.
• Employer Contribution Retirement Plan (100% Vested Immediately): Plan for your future with confidence. Our retirement plan includes employer contributions that are fully vested from day one, ensuring your long-term financial security.
• Wellness Reimbursement: We support your commitment to well-being with a reimbursement program for wellness-related expenses, promoting a healthy work-life balance.
• 16 Paid Holidays: Enjoy a generous holiday schedule, allowing you to celebrate and recharge throughout the year.
• Half Day Fridays (Memorial Day to Labor Day): Embrace work-life balance with half-day Fridays during the summer months, giving you extra time to relax and enjoy personal pursuits.
• Stocked Kitchen: Fuel your day with our stocked kitchen, providing snacks and beverages to keep you refreshed and productive.

Interested? Apply now! All applications require:

• Cover Letter
• Resume

About Southwest Michigan First

Southwest Michigan First is an organization of privately funded economic development advisors who act as the catalyst for economic success in Southwest Michigan. Founded in 1999 on the principle that the greatest force for change is a job, the organization works across all industries throughout the seven counties making up the Southwest Michigan region.

Southwest Michigan First provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, Southwest Michigan First complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and