The Right Place, Inc.

Shawn Crowley of Atomic Object reflects on his time as Chair of the Tech Council of West Michigan. Through his leadership, the council has fostered collaboration, driven innovation, and strengthened the tech community across our region. In this video, Shawn shares his personal highlights and insights from his journey. Dive deeper into the Tech Council’s 2024 Year in Review to explore the incredible achievements and what’s ahead for West Michigan’s tech future. Read the blog: https://lnkd.in/eKMauyvf We’re thrilled to welcome our new leadership: ▪️ Stacy P. – Stepping into the role of Board Chair, Stacy brings fresh energy and a forward-thinking approach to our mission. ▪️ Chad Paalman – As our new Vice Chair, Chad will help drive key initiatives and build on our momentum. Together, Stacy and Chad bring complementary skills, a shared passion for technology, and a vision for an exciting future for the Council.

The Right Place's State of the Region report for 2024 is here! Dive into the latest data and insights shaping the Greater Grand Rapids region. From economic trends to talent development and community growth, this comprehensive report highlights the progress we've made—and the opportunities ahead. Read the full report today: https://lnkd.in/eKJGhSJb

This year has been one of resilience, collaboration, and growth here at The Right Place. Through our strategic initiatives and shared commitment to economic vitality, we’ve made significant strides in strengthening our region’s businesses and communities. While we’re proud of the progress made, we’re equally excited about the opportunities ahead. Check out this blog recapping this year’s milestones and successes: https://bit.ly/3ZOdmVc

Did you know we have monthly Coffee Circles and an annual event — Go Beyond — for women entrepreneurs in the Greater Grand Rapids area? Read our latest blog with Purpose Jobs to learn about events we facilitate for women business owners: https://bit.ly/3ZWYbsK PS: Go Beyond 2025 registration is open! https://bit.ly/3VFCyuH

Earlier this month, we hosted our annual Economic Outlook event! Industry leaders, economists, and business professionals gathered to discuss what lies ahead for the economic landscape of the Greater Grand Rapids region in 2025. Our CEO, Randy Thelen, gave a regional update and walked us through our annual State of the Region report, which can be accessed here: https://bit.ly/3ZvMPKX Thank you to Michael Horrigan, President of the W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research, Jeffrey Korzenik, Chief Economist at Fifth Third Bank, and Susan N. Houseman, Senior Economist at W.E. Upjohn Institute, for your state- and national-level economic insights. If you weren’t able to attend, here’s a recap highlighting some key takeaways to consider as we enter 2025: https://bit.ly/4izPfBa

The Right Place is proud to partner with eight counties across the Greater Grand Rapids region, and we’re on the lookout for an exceptional leader to join our team as the Executive Director of the Montcalm Economic Alliance (MEA)! This strategic role will oversee economic and community development initiatives for Montcalm County, working closely with The Right Place team, local leaders, and the MEA Board. About the Role: 🔹 Lead impactful economic and community growth initiatives 🔹 Cultivate partnerships with business leaders, government, and community stakeholders 🔹 Drive strategies for business attraction, retention, and development Learn more about the position: https://lnkd.in/et2EGHsX Know someone who would be perfect for this role? Tag them below or share this post!

Happy work anniversary to Rachel Gray and Travis Alden! Rachel has been with Hello West Michigan since 2013 but officially joined The Right Place team when HWM began their strategic partnership with The Right Place in 2015, and Travis joined the team five years ago! Rachel’s efforts in educating employers and prospective candidates about the Greater Grand Rapids region are instrumental in attracting top talent and driving economic growth. Travis focuses on placemaking initiatives, shaping a vibrant and thriving community for everyone to enjoy. We appreciate all that you do to elevate the Greater Grand Rapids region and position it as an ideal location to live, work, and play. Congratulations on another successful year!

We’re hiring! Join our MMTC-West team at The Right Place and help local manufacturers. As a Manufacturing Solutions Specialist, you will: 🔹 Assess opportunities for continuous improvement, growth, and development. 🔹 Consult with manufacturers and develop innovative strategies to address their challenges. 🔹 Build partnerships with organizations like regional economic development offices, workforce development groups, and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Why join us? 🔹 Competitive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision coverage. 🔹 Paid time off, wellness stipends, and professional development opportunities. 🔹 Be part of a team dedicated to making a difference in the Greater Grand Rapids region. Ready to make an impact? Learn more: https://lnkd.in/dGsef7cw

Here at The Right Place, we value our interns and believe that strong internship programs are essential in retaining top talent within our region. Mia LaMontagne, our Marketing & Communications intern for 2024, shares her internship experience in this blog: https://bit.ly/4fdPqiv

This morning, BENTELER Group officially broke ground on their new site in Wyoming! This plant will expand Benteler’s presence in the Grand Rapids area and create 147 jobs, signaling the company’s continued commitment to the region.