DPSCD joins the state’s MiSTEM effort, EMU and the Geospatial Technology Talent Consortium to prepare students for high-tech jobs on the horizon; looks for employers to work with interns to develop talent pipeline

LANSING, Mich.—With organizations across the globe increasingly relying on location intelligence to make better decisions, careers in Geographic Information Systems (GIS) are in demand more than ever. That’s why the state’s MiSTEM Network has partnered with Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) and Eastern Michigan University (EMU) to offer a unique opportunity for students to take college-level GIS courses.

Virtual Healthcare Trade Mission to the U.A.E.

February 1-11, 2021

Together with the Great Lakes St. Lawrence Governors and Premiers, MEDC invites companies to join a healthcare sector trade mission to the United Arab Emirates. This mission offers a chance for companies to get a head start on their participation in Arab Health 2021 (May-July 2021) or to utilize the trade mission to develop leads in the U.A.E.

US manufacturing activity increased for a seventh straight month in November, according to the manufacturing index from the Institute for Supply Management. The index fell to 57.5% in November from 59.3% in October; a reading of above 50 indicates expansion in the industry, but the decline in index means that pace of growth improved over the month.

The Michigan Strategic Fund today approved a $10 million grant program to help meet the urgent needs of small businesses disproportionately impacted the COVID-19 virus. The Pure Michigan Small Business Relief Initiative will utilize federal CARES Act funding to award grants of up to $15,000 to small businesses across Michigan, with applications being available beginning December 15, 2020.

• Michigan Strategic Fund authorizes relief program to expected support small businesses disproportionally impacted by COVID-19 crisis

• MEDC seeking grant administrators to ensure statewide coverage; applications for administrators due Dec. 2

• Eligible small businesses able to apply for grants starting on Dec. 15 at www.michiganbusiness.org/relief

Here's a digest of current business news and topics from Western Michigan: 

Degage Ministries - Degage Ministries seeks donations for annual Heartside Community Christmas Store

Degage Ministries is preparing to open the Degage Ministries Christmas Store to help low-income and homeless residents of the Heartside neighborhood purchase holiday gifts for family and friends. Store items are donated and then sold to residents at reduced prices, providing an opportunity for the individuals to feel dignity and value in not only choosing, but also paying for the gift items.