August 2024 | Top Stories:
Data Corner: County Business Patterns | Special Competitive Studies Project Report Recognizes Project DIAMOnD | Grow & Diversify Your Business Internationally Webinar | Edu2B Tech Collaboration | AeroOne Summit | Automotive Evolution North America | Revolving Loan Fund | Small Business Loan Opportunities | Planners Gathering: Cass Community Tiny Homes Development | Community Showcase Event | Backing Small Business $10,000 Grants | Blue Heron Headwaters Conservancy New Executive Director | County Employee Achieves Main Street America Certification | Michigan Reconnect Program | Oakland County Veterans "This Ride's On Us" Program | Veterans Training Workshop: Benefits Available to You | Veterans Food Distribution Events
A Message From Sean Carlson
Oakland County Deputy Executive
As the summer comes to an end, and the new school year begins, Oakland County Economic Development looks to advance toward the future while preserving the past. Innovation and technology are important to Economic Development; so, this month we want to highlight some opportunities for our business owners and community leaders.
For business owners large and small we have opportunities to grow. Learn how employers like you can use Michigan Reconnect to upskill your teams. This fall we have another Edu2B Tech Collaboration, this time at Walsh College in Troy where you can join the discussion with higher education institutions to find new ways to collaborate. Also coming this September is the Aerospace Industry Association of Michigan's annual AeroOne Summit. This year’s summit will focus on developing the right relationships for a strong aerospace industry. Finally, coming this October, the Automotive Evolution North America will return to Detroit.
Oakland County small business owners, did you know that we offer loan opportunities to help grow your business? This month you can learn more about CEED Lending and the Revolving Loan Fund Program and their upcoming workshops.
Business owners and community leaders alike should consider attending our upcoming Community Showcase scheduled for Friday, Oct. 18. Municipal officials will be available to discuss their plans and development opportunities for available properties. Many Oakland County communities will be represented at this event organized by our Planning & Local Business Development Division.
The Main Street Oakland County (MSOC) team continues to help their communities and small businesses identify grant opportunities, and the efforts are paying off, including five small businesses in MSOC communities receiving $10,000 grants from American Express and Main Street America. The MSOC team has a lot of expertise, and we congratulate MSOC senior planner Tim Colbeck for achieving the Main Street America Revitalization Professionals Certification.
Last but certainly not least, my fellow Oakland County veterans, I hope you will take advantage of the offerings, events and resources that our Oakland County Veterans’ Services division has to offer. Their “This Ride’s On Us” program runs through Sept. 30 and allows veterans residing in Oakland County to receive free rides to any location within the county. I also hope you will join us for our upcoming Veterans Food Distribution Events in August and September. Thank you for all you have done for your country.
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 Data Corner
County Business Patterns
The U.S. Census Bureau has recently released updated County Business Patterns data for county and ZIP Code-level geographies for 2021. These data show detailed annual information on the number of establishments, employment during the week of March 12, and first quarter and annual payroll at the national, state, MSA, CSA, and county and congressional district levels for nearly 1,000 industries.
The data are useful for studying economic activity of small areas. Federal agencies use the data to determine employee concentrations and trends by industry. Private businesses use the data to analyze market potential, measure the effectiveness of sales and advertising programs, set sales quotas, and develop budgets. State and local government offices use the data to assess business changes, develop fiscal policies, and plan future policies and programs.
CBP data are from the Business Register (BR), a database of all known single- and multi-establishment employer companies maintained and updated by the Census Bureau. It contains non-survey data, usually tax return information.
Payroll Establishments by the numbers in Oakland County:
39,501* – The number of employer establishments in Oakland County in 2022, a slight increase from the 2021 figure of 39,178
699,061* – The number of paid employees in Oakland County in 2022, up 3% from 2021
$48.9 billion* – Estimated 2022 annual payroll of establishments in Oakland County
Average Annual Wage per Employee by Industry - Oakland County (2022)
Interactive resources and related information:
 Business
Special Competitive Studies Project (SCSP) Report Calls Out Project DIAMOnD as Distributed 3D Printing Model for DoD to Follow
The SCSP Report, spearheaded by former Google CEO Eric Schmidt, called out Michigan-based Project DIAMOnD as the Distributed 3D Printing Model for DoD to Follow.
Project DIAMOnD (Distributed, Independent, Agile Manufacturing on Demand) is setting a new trend all around the nation. We are thrilled to share the recent feature in the SCSP Report as a model for the future of advanced manufacturing. We're not just building the future—we're shaping it. This recognition underscores the transformative potential of additive manufacturing technologies. We are proud to be at the forefront of this industry revolution.
Read more here: tinyurl.com/5n7px3xj
Oakland County manufacturers, apply for a FREE 3D Printer + training at: projectdiamond.org
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 WEBINAR: Grow & Diversify Your Business Internationally
Wednesday, Sept. 11, 2024 | 1:00-2:00 p.m.
Explore the market research that has been completed to give you the cutting-edge outlook on your companies’ global appeal. We will share resources available to help you increase your customer portfolio.
There’s no cost to attend, but RSVP required here: tinyurl.com/mrw9rvtj
Edu2B Tech Collaboration
Sept. 19, 2024 | 9:00 - 11:30 a.m. | Walsh College in Troy
Join the discussion with higher education institutions, peers and industry leaders to find new ways to collaborate. If you are an Oakland County company in the following industries this event is for you: IT/Computer Services; Robotics Integration; and Research, Engineering & Design. There will be a brief presentation from the college, a panel of industry professionals, and a networking session for decision makers to build deeper industry ties and foster collaboration.
VTM Michigan 2025 – Gain Visibility and Exposure in the Mobility Ecosystem
April 23-24, 2025 | M1 Concourse, Pontiac
VTM Michigan will return in April 2025. Oakland County and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation have partnered with Advanced Business Events (ABE) to organize VTM Michigan on April 23-24, 2025, at M1 Concourse in Pontiac, near Detroit, MI. Attend alongside international firms, Michigan’s top tier 1 suppliers and OEMs, and transformative mobility technology companies. Sponsorship opportunities are available. We have a variety of levels depending on your company's needs to maximize your visibility at this global event happening here in Oakland County.
Visit: MichiganVehicleMeetings.com
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AeroOne to Convene National Aerospace Leaders in Oakland County Sept. 4-6, 2024
The Aerospace Industry Association of Michigan (AIAM) will hold its annual AeroOne summit Sept. 4-6 in Oakland County. This year’s summit will focus on developing the right relationships for success in building a strong aerospace industry. OEMs, suppliers and thought leaders will gather at the Royal Park Hotel in downtown Rochester for two and a half days of keynotes, panel discussions and small group roundtables with industry leaders and suppliers providing networking opportunities with internationally renowned companies and speakers.
“We’re very excited to be holding AeroOne 2024 in Oakland County,” said AIAM President, Tony Vernaci. “It’s a tremendous aerospace business environment. AeroOne has become an indispensable opportunity to connect one-on-one with the people who are shaping aerospace across the globe. This is an ideal location."
Last year’s conference drew attendees from more than 150 companies across 20 states. It featured top space, defense, and aerospace suppliers as well as leaders from global OEMs and Tier 1s such as Airbus, Boeing, Eaton, Woodward and Pratt & Whitney along with representatives from the U.S. Department of Defense.
Registration is now open. Attendance will be limited, so early registration is encouraged. To register or learn more, visit: aerooneshow.com
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Automotive Evolution North America Returns to Detroit Oct. 30-31, 2024
Join us there to gain insights into how we are shaping North American manufacturing towards a lean, sustainable and flexible future. Connect with manufacturing leaders and experts as they steer automotive production towards greater innovation, flexibility and sustainability than ever before.
Learn more about the event: tinyurl.com/yjbvc963
As a valued member of our community you can save 20% by registering here: evbk.link/8mPXDr
Or simply use the code 'OAK20' at checkout.
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Small Business Loan Opportunities brought to you by CEED Lending and the Revolving Loan Fund Program – Capital to Grow Your Business!
The Oakland County Revolving Loan Fund (RLF) was created to provide gap financing to businesses negatively affected by COVID-19, primarily small businesses owned by minorities, women or located in an economically, disadvantaged area. However, all Oakland County small businesses are welcome to apply.
Learn more & get started here: tinyurl.com/3mpvwwvt
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Small Business Loan Opportunities Brought to you by CEED Lending
Want to meet with professionals to help you get started? Plan to attend a Small Business Mixer and Loan Orientation coming up.
SMALL BUSINESS MIXERS:
Marketing Your Business
Sept. 10, 2024 | Noon - 1:00 p.m.
Southfield Chamber of Commerce | 20300 Civic Center Drive, Southfield
Speaker: Juan Carlos Dueweke-Perez, Featherstone Moments
Small Business Taxes
Oct. 8, 2024 | Noon - 1:00 p.m.
Pontiac Public Library | 60 E Pike Street #2225, Pontiac
Speakers: Benita Tyler & Ilene Donnel
Entrepreneurs Journey
Nov. 12, 2024 | Noon - 1:00 p.m.
Virtual
Register at: tinyurl.com/4unayyd7
LOAN ORIENTATIONS:
Aug. 20, 2024 | Noon - 1:30 p.m.
Best Practices Consulting Services | 11189 Shook Road, Romulus
Sept. 17, 2024 | Noon - 1:30 p.m.
OLHSA | 196 Cesar E Chavez Avenue, Pontiac
Oct. 15, 2024 | Noon - 1:30 p.m.
Southfield Public Library | 26300 Evergreen Road, Southfield
Nov. 15, 2024 | Noon - 1:30 p.m.
Virtual
Register at: CEEDLending.org
 Community Development
Next Planners Gathering Focuses on Detroit’s Cass Community Tiny Homes Development
Entitled “Tiny Homes in a Big City,” the next virtual Planners Gathering is August 20, 10-11 a.m. The Reverend Faith Fowler, executive director, Cass Community Social Services, Detroit, will recount the journey from concept to reality for the 25-unit Cass Community Tiny Homes Development. The discussion will draw on Reverend Fowler’s book “Tiny Homes in a Big City” (published in 2018) and provide an update on the project.
Registration is free and required for the Zoom link:
tinyurl.com/2p97urwj
If you have any questions, contact Jim Schafer, Oakland County at: schaferj@oakgov.com or (248) 858-2033
This session will be recorded and available at AdvantageOakland.com
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Community Showcase Event to Spotlight Development Opportunities
 Community Showcase 2023
Oakland County’s Community Showcase is scheduled for Friday, October 18, 7:30 to 10 a.m., at the Oakland Schools Auditorium, 2111 Pontiac Lake Road, Waterford Township. Municipal officials will be available to discuss their plans and development opportunities with attending investors, developers, brokers, bankers, real estate agents, homebuilders, and business and property owners at this one stop, convenient event.
Many Oakland County communities will be represented, including Farmington Hills, Ferndale, Groveland Township, Hazel Park, Independence Township, Lathrup Village, Lyon Township, Madison Heights, Oak Park, Orion Township, Ortonville, Oxford, Pontiac, Rochester Hills, Royal Oak, Southfield, Troy, Waterford Township and Wixom.
Representatives from Lean & Green Michigan will be on hand to discuss the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) program which enables cashflow positive investment in comprehensive energy efficiency, water efficiency and renewable energy projects. By financing such projects through PACE, businesses can eliminate the need for upfront capital and spread the costs over up to 25 years so that the savings generated from the project are greater than the annual PACE loan repayment.
Brad Hansen, senior business development consultant, will also be available to discuss the Oakland County Brownfield Redevelopment program.
The showcase is organized by the Planning & Local Business Development Division - Planning, Zoning & Land Use Unit. Advance registration is free and required at Community-Showcase.eventbrite.com
If your community is interested in participating or you have any questions, please contact Jim Schafer at schaferj@oakgov.com or (248) 858-2033.
Five Small Businesses in Main Street Oakland County Communities Receive $10,000 Grants
 Write Impressions, Royal Oak
Five of the 500 “Backing Small Business” $10,000 Grants awarded nationwide this year by American Express and Main Street America are going to small businesses in Main Street Oakland County (MSOC) communities:
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Bosco Cafe and Dessert Lounge, Ferndale
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EveryBody by Dutton Farm, Pontiac
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The Style Guru, Lathrup Village
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Ullman’s, Berkley
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Write Impressions, Royal Oak
This grant program supports economically vulnerable and under-resourced small businesses with community reach and/or cultural significance. This year, eligible small business owners could apply for $10,000 grants for projects that grow or improve their businesses by building community, supporting their economic viability, or bolstering meaningful change.
“We are so pleased and grateful that of the 13 grants awarded to the State of Michigan, five of the grants will benefit small businesses in our MSOC communities,” says John Bry, administrator, Main Street Oakland County Coordinating Program and Local Business Development.
Later this year, grantees will have the opportunity to apply for an additional $30,000 enhancement grant that will be awarded to 25 small businesses—which will allow those business owners the opportunity to create transformative change within their business and in their community (e.g., by giving back; partnering with community members; addressing cultural, environmental and/or access needs in their community; opening a new location; and/or adding staffing).
Since launching in 2021, this grant program has provided over $9 million in grants to 1,180 small business owners nationwide. American Express and Main Street America initially created the grant program to help economically vulnerable small business owners recover and grow their business following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Blue Heron Headwaters Conservancy Welcomes New Executive Director
 Emily DuThinh, Jason Meekhof, Sue Julian
Blue Heron Headwaters Conservancy (BHHC) welcomes Jason Meekhof as their new executive director. He is a Michigan native that has worked for multiple nonprofit organizations, including most recently as the Midwest Regional Director for the National Deer Association. Meekhof is a Wayne State University graduate and is currently pursuing a Nonprofit Management Certificate at Oakland University.
Meekhof replaces Sue Julian who is retiring but will continue to serve on BHHC’s Board of Directors and as a volunteer.
“I am incredibly excited to work alongside our Board of Directors, dedicated staff, tremendous volunteers, and generous donors to build upon BHHC’s incredible 52-year legacy,” said Meekhof. “Continuing to strengthen and expand meaningful partnerships with local governments, businesses, and residents in our service area will be crucial to our success. Together, we will safeguard our community's unique land, water, and wildlife.”
“We are very grateful to Sue Julian for her years of dedication to the Conservancy and her vision and leadership while Executive Director,” said Emily DuThinh, president, BHHC Board of Directors. “We look forward to utilizing Jason’s extensive nonprofit management experience to help BHHC continue our mission of protecting the headwaters of our four local rivers.”
BHHC, founded in 1972 as the Independence Township Land Trust and formerly called the North Oakland Headwaters Land Conservancy, is one of Michigan's first land conservancies. It is now a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that preserves 61 properties totaling over 1,600 acres.
BHHC’s mission is to protect the land, water, and wildlife in the headwaters region of the Clinton, Shiawassee, Huron, and Flint rivers through preservation, stewardship, and education. The BHHC promotes community engagement to protect and care for these natural areas.
For more information on the seven public preserves with demonstration gardens and walking trails, visit: blueheronheadwaters.org
Main Street Oakland County’s Tim Colbeck Achieves Main Street America Revitalization Professionals Certification
 Oakland County Executive David Coulter, Tim Colbeck, John Bry
Tim Colbeck, senior planner, with the Main Street Oakland County (MSOC) Coordinating Program, has achieved the Main Street America Revitalization Professionals Certification. This certification’s curriculum is developed by the National Main Street Center (Chicago) to support professional development in the areas of community transformation and leadership development—driven by the ever-changing micro and macroeconomic forces impacting downtown economic development.
Colbeck has been with the MSOC team for nearly seven years. He has over 20 years of experience in the economic and community development field—more than 14 years directly involved with Main Street, including seven years as a Main Street Manager. He has a Master of Urban Planning degree from Wayne State University and is a part-time instructor at Oakland University teaching a class on Economic Development in the Master of Public Administration program.
“The MSOC program serves 28 communities,” says John Bry, administrator, MSOC program and Local Business Development Unit. “Three MSOC team members are now certified by the National Main Street Center and two others maintain credentials from the American Institute of Architects and the American Institute of Certified Planners. I am so proud of the expertise this team brings to our communities.”
For more information, visit: MainStreetOaklandCounty.com
 Workforce Development
Employers can take advantage of Michigan Reconnect to upskill their teams
Oakland County employers who need more skilled workers are encouraged to introduce them to Michigan Reconnect. The state’s popular tuition scholarship program enables individuals to return to school to earn a college degree or skills certification. To date, nearly 50,000 people are enrolled in the program statewide.
More than 5,000 Oakland County residents have enrolled in Michigan Reconnect and are attending Oakland Community College. To be eligible, a person must be at least 21 years old when they apply. The eligibility age was lowered from 25 earlier this year and is in effect through Nov. 15 of this year. Other requirements include having lived in Michigan for a year or more, earned a high school diploma, but not a degree (Associate or higher).
Oakland County, through its Oakland80 initiative that encourages adults to earn a degree or certification, has partnered with the state to offer Michigan Reconnect participants additional supportive services to help them with school or training. This includes childcare and transportation assistance, books and supplies, as well as other related needs. Oakland County’s goal is to have 80 percent of adults having earned a post-secondary degree or certification by 2030.
For persons not sure of their educational future, Oakland80 Career and Education Navigators are available to provide career advising, FAFSA assistance, help with the Michigan Reconnect applications and more.
“We know there is a huge need in our region to upskill workers for the in-demand careers of the 21st century,” said Oakland80 Administrator Rana Al—Igoe. “We also know it is not easy for many people to return to school. Our partnership with the state is enabling so many people to obtain a degree or skills certificate by breaking down these obstacles.
”The goal is to build a more skilled workforce across Oakland County, meeting the needs of our employers and leading to better careers and lives for our residents.”
The Career and Education Navigators are available to meet with you and your teams to share more information about the Michigan Reconnect scholarship program and other help available through Oakland County Michigan Works! Information sessions for all employees can be scheduled. The team also is available for company town hall meetings or career events. In addition, information can be provided to include in company newsletters and other communications.
Interested employers should contact Oakland80 Administrator Rana Al-Igoe at (248) 452-2259, or via email at Oakland80@oakgov.com
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 Veterans
Oakland County and SMART Providing Free Transit for Veterans and Dependents
Oakland County, in collaboration with SMART (Suburban Mobility Authority for Regional Transportation), is providing free transit for veterans.
The transportation program offers door-to-door service throughout Oakland County Monday-Friday between the hours of 6 a.m. and 9 p.m. Weekend transit services will vary by provider. The program will run through Sept. 30, 2024, or until the allocated funds are exhausted. Personal care assistants, widows and widowers of veterans may also ride for free. Veterans need only show their DD214, veterans ID from the Oakland County Clerk’s Office, or veteran designation on their driver’s license to get a ride. To schedule a trip, call (248) 419-7984.
“This service is a small way that we can honor the huge sacrifice our veterans have made for all of us,” County Executive Dave Coulter said. “Veterans and their families can access essential services this summer without worrying about the financial cost of transportation.”
Learn More about the “This Ride’s on Us” Veterans Transportation Program:
tinyurl.com/2s2vutnd
Veterans Training Workshop - Benefits Available to You
Sept. 23, 2024 | 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.
Waterford Oaks Activity Center
2800 Watkins Lake Road | Waterford, MI
Are you a veteran working at Oakland County? Join us for an informative workshop on the veterans benefits available to you. We will cover topics like: pension, health care, education, life insurance, burial benefits, transportation and more.
Register Today at: tinyurl.com/4c4k5437
Cost: Free | Registration Required | Lunch is Provided
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Join Us at Our Upcoming Veterans Food Distribution Events
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