Community Development Specialist
Phone: 269-659-7233
Ryan Conrod
Downtown Event Coordinator
Phone: (269) 651-1907
Many new or growing businesses need some help to develop their business, start a new venture, or improve an existing one. Through state, local, and non-profit resources, the City of Sturgis is willing to do all it can to help match businesses up with resources such as assistance or incentives that will help them prosper. Below are a few of the resources available. To help explore all your resource options, please contact the City of Sturgis Economic Development department at (269) 659-7234 or email us at [email protected]. Be sure to ask about how the Business Development Team may be able to help.
Brownfield Redevelopment Authority
A redevelopment property that may be complicated by the presence or perception of
contamination should contact the Brownfield Redevelopment Authority, BRA, to discuss
possible incentives. Follow the link to access an overview of the process, including links to
additional resources from the MEDC. For more information or to schedule a BDT to discuss all
possible assistance, contact City staff at [email protected] or by phone at (269) 659-7234.
Core Community
Because of its prime location, Sturgis is one of 88 Michigan communities designated as a Core Community,
providing added eligibility for programs designed to eradicate contaminated sites or utilize abandoned
properties. More information can be found on their website at CORE Community Partners.
Service Corps of Retired Executives (SCORE)
SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to helping small businesses get off the ground, grow and
achieve their goals through education and mentorship. Programs include volunteer mentors; free,
confidential business counseling; online business resources; and free or low-cost seminars or webinars.
Sturgis Economic Development staff can help get you in contact with SCORE resources, or you can learn
more online at score.org.
Michigan Economic Development Corporation and State of Michigan
The MEDC has a variety of resources and information available on their website at Michigan Business,
including a listing of State programs, available sites for development, upcoming events, and incentives for
businesses.
State of Michigan
The State of Michigan provides a wide range of support and resources to businesses of all sizes.
Business (michigan.gov).
The Michigan Small Business Development Center
Small businesses that need support getting started, growing, or creating a plan to sell will find
resources and support through Michigan SBDC. Free business consulting services, training and
events are all available on at Michigan SBDC - The Michigan Small Business Development Center.
Tax Abatements
For industrial businesses the City of Sturgis can offer tax abatements through the State’s Industrial Facility exemption Certificate (IFEC) program. Contact Jill Bland at [email protected] to learn more.