The future of Muskegon County is brighter than ever. The vision is to create a model waterfront community where all people may prosper in a healthy environment. This vision is a product of the Muskegon Area-Wide Plan; many organizations were involved including the Muskegon Area Chamber of Commerce, Muskegon Area First, the local units of government, West Michigan Shoreline Regional Development Commission and One Muskegon.

Muskegon County will be known for its diverse, entrepreneur-driven economy as:

Ø A global leader in advanced manufacturing with specialization in metal, plastics, alternative energy, and agricultural products.

Ø A popular Midwest waterfront destination for year-round tourism, culture, and recreational activities.

Ø A popular Midwest waterfront destination for residential living and retirement.

Ø The regional lakeshore center for affordable, quality health care in basic and specialty services.

Ø The regional lakeshore center for life-long learning with emphasis in workforce training, early childhood through higher level adult education, and private and public research.

Ø The regional lakeshore center for retail services.

To reach this economic vision, community leaders and citizens must focus on developing the following community assets:

• A welcoming and diverse culture
• Educated and globally-minded citizens
• A safe environment for all people
• Protected and preserved natural resources
• Affordable cost of doing business and living
• Coordinated land use planning
• Global transportation access
• Government cooperation and harmonious community leadership
• Outstanding and well-funded institutions, facilities, and businesses
• County-wide state-of-the-art public infrastructure, including technology

The vision for Muskegon County is already becoming a reality as we continue to see investment and job creation throughout this community.

 

Muskegon Area Chamber of Commerce is a service partner with Muskegon Area First (MAF), who provides hands-on project management services for companies expanding or locating facilities in the Muskegon area.
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Build Muskegon Business  

We are excited you are considering the Muskegon area for your business location.  This may be a once in a life time opportunity and we want to help you do everything on time and on budget.  It is important for you to know that opening a storefront, office or any business facility is not like buying or renting a house.  The process is much more complex whether you plan to build, expand, buy or lease. 

It is important to do your research before you sign any contract.  Fees can range from $25 dollars to $30,000 dollars for items critical to your operation. Those costs need to be built into the project budget to ensure a successful opening. Also architects, attorneys, builders and engineers will often offer you one free hour of consultation for your project.  For a fee, some of these companies will manage the entire process for you.  Some may only offer specific services.  You will need to have a clear understanding about what services are being provided and for what fees.  

Since every industry is different and may be governed by different regulations, it may be wise to schedule an appointment with SCORE or an SBA counselor.  In Muskegon County free counseling is offered Monday through Friday at the Muskegon Area Chamber of Commerce office.  For an appointment call 231-722-3751.

Resources
Muskegon Area Chamber of Commerce
Muskegon Area First
SCORE
Small Business Technology and Development Center
Michigan State University Extension
Shoreline Builders Association
Muskegon Main Street

Location Considerations
Real Estate
Zoning ordinances
Parking
Signage
Market research
Taxes
Utilities  
Transportation

Building or Buying
Contact planning department of municipality
Inspections
Fire           
Electrical            
Plumbing            
Building
Health Department
Permits
      State
      Local
Certifications
      US Green Building Counsel - LEED 

Professional Services
Developer
Architect
Engineer
Builder
Contractor
Financial Advisor
Financial Institution
Legal Advisor

Up and Running
Muskegon Area Chamber of Commerce
Employers Association
Disaster Planning
Payroll Companies
Office Equipment