About EDCMC
Welcome from the Executive Director
“Vibrancy was the word of the year for our city and team in 2024.
Our economic inclusive initiative, Vibrant Michigan City, has continued to flourish with the addition of new team members. An Economic Recovery Corps Fellow will be assisting with the agenda items outlined in the finalized playbook. Erin Meisner joined our team as Community Development Manager to focus on not only the initiative, but also additional socio-economic opportunities, including the rebooted Michigan City Neighborhood Leadership Academy.
We have launched our first neighborhood in 50 years, updated our Strategic Plan and welcomed the new restaurants and business expansions. Every day that our city and community evolve, we feel the energy and spirited surge of positivity and vibrancy that is truly taking root in every corner of our city.”
– Clarence L. Hulse
2024 Annual Report: A Year of Growth, Development, and Community Impact
The EDCMC 2024 Annual Report highlights significant growth in Michigan City, marked by the advancement of the Vibrant Michigan City initiative, the launch of housing developments like Woodland Ridge and The Franklin at 11th Street Station, and the redevelopment of the Indiana State Prison site. The local business community thrived with new openings and expansions, while infrastructure improvements, including the Double Track Northwest Indiana project, enhanced connectivity to Chicago. Additionally, the EDCMC introduced a new Strategic Plan focused on five pillars: economic inclusion, workforce development, placemaking, storytelling, and financial modernization – laying a strong foundation for progress through 2040.
EDCMC Mission & Vision
The Economic Development Corporation of Michigan City (EDCMC) is committed to fostering a thriving community by focusing on five key pillars: Economic Modernization, Economic Inclusion, Workforce Development, Placemaking, and Storytelling. These strategic priorities work together to create a vibrant, inclusive, and competitive economy where residents, businesses, and entrepreneurs can prosper.
Mission Statement: To champion economic growth, prosperity, and opportunity by creating a vibrant, inclusive, and competitive economy where residents, entrepreneurs, and businesses thrive.
Vision Statement: To be a trusted broker and engine of economic opportunity for residents, entrepreneurs, and businesses, enhancing the business environment and quality of life for Michigan City.
A NEW PLAN FOR THE FUTURE
A refreshed Michigan City Strategic Action Plan plots key points to forge toward continuous economic development and socioeconomic opportunities and innovations.
The Economic Development Corporation Michigan City, Michigan City Mayor Angie Nelson Deuitch and business and community leaders worked closely with the Ascendant Global Consulting team to update the Strategic Plan for a groundwork to pave the way to 2040.
“Our vision is rooted in our city’s history and current path while not shying away from the challenges and issues our community members face,” said EDCMC Executive Director Clarence L. Hulse. “The framework is based on months of interviews, discussions, roundtables, surveys, analysis and connections with a cross-section of our community and businesses – all with an eye toward collaboration and unity.”
The Strategic Action Plan is built on the base created by the Ascendant team that pinpoints five pillars: economic inclusion, workforce development, placemaking, storytelling and economic modernization. The plan drills down each area into actionable steps that will serve as a guide to move toward measurable and meaningful benchmarks.
EDCMC STAFF
The team at the Economic Development Corporation Michigan City (EDCMC) is dedicated to supporting the growth and development of Michigan City. With a strong focus on attracting new investments and helping local businesses succeed, they work to improve the city’s economic landscape. Their knowledge of the community and commitment to its future drives their efforts to create opportunities that benefit both businesses and residents. At EDCMC, they’re focused on building a positive future for Michigan City.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
The Board of Directors for the Economic Development Corporation Michigan City (EDCMC) is a diverse group of local leaders and professionals committed to guiding the organization’s strategic vision. Representing various industries and backgrounds, the board works collaboratively to promote economic growth and development in Michigan City. Their combined expertise helps ensure that the EDCMC remains focused on supporting business expansion, attracting investment, and fostering a vibrant local economy.