The Michigan Economic Development Corporation announced Michigan Strategic Fund approval of a $300,000 Michigan Business Development Program incentive for Getman Corporation to expand its operations in Comstock Charter Township, a project that will generate up to $5.5 million in new private investment and add 150 new jobs.
“Getman Corporation is an important employer in Southwest Michigan and its decision to expand in Comstock Township is a huge win for the area and its residents,” said Governor Rick Snyder. “The company’s decision to invest so heavily in Michigan is a strong statement that Michigan offers one of the nation’s best business climates to growing companies.”
Getman Corporation, a third generation manufacturer of custom mobile equipment for the underground mining company, has operated a manufacturing facility in Bangor since 1981 and has more than 50 years of experience in serving the industry. The company has outgrown its existing facility and plans to open a second facility in the Charter Township of Comstock. The company plans to invest at least $5.5 million and create 150 manufacturing jobs related to the underground mining industry. As a result of this expansion, Getman is being awarded a $300,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant. Michigan was chosen over competing sites in Indiana.
“Expanding our workforce and facilities is critical to meeting the growing demand for our product as we strive to become the globally preferred partner in our class of equipment,” said Erik VanAllen, president and chief executive officer of Getman Corporation. We are proud to be part of the Southwest Michigan community and look forward to laying a foundation for growth in Comstock Township.”
“I would like to congratulate Getman on its expansion and extend my thanks for its continued commitment to Southwest Michigan,” said MEDC President and CEO Michael A. Finney. “It is through the efforts of Southwest Michigan First and Comstock Charter Township that this expansion is taking place, and we are very pleased to support that collaboration.”
Comstock Township is offering a six-year tax abatement to the project valued at $84,928.
“We are very pleased that the Getman Corporation expansion is occurring in our community. A business expansion allows an existing organization to experience new possibilities and overall growth,” said Comstock Township Supervisor Ann Nieuwenhuis. “The Township staff stands ready to assist with any of their expansion needs. A healthy and vibrant local economy depends on the well-being of our businesses. Comstock Township’s goal is to work hard and provide a great working environment so all our businesses can succeed.”
“Southwest Michigan First applauds Getman Corporation for making this significant investment in our region. When you look at the planned job creation numbers, the company is almost doubling its workforce. Wow, what a commitment to the future of Southwest Michigan,” said Ron Kitchens, chief executive officer of Southwest Michigan First.
The Michigan Business Development Program provides grants, loans and other economic assistance to qualified businesses that make investments or create jobs in Michigan, with preference given to businesses that need additional assistance for deal-closing and for second stage gap financing.
The MSF will consider a number of factors in making these awards, including: out-of-state competition, private investment in the project, business diversification opportunities, near-term job creation, wage and benefit levels of the new jobs, and net-positive return to the state. Business retention and retail projects are not eligible for consideration of these incentives.
The MEDC markets the state with a focus on business, talent, jobs, and helping to grow the economy. For more on MEDC and its initiatives, visit: MichiganAdvantage.org.
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