REI is excited to announce the tenth SLFG project award for 2024. Funded by the U.S. Department of Commerce - Economic Development Administration (EDA), and with additional support from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), Student-Led Faculty-Guided (SLFG) projects focus on providing assistance to Michigan communities in completing local and regional economic development initiatives. Work is completed by students at colleges and universities throughout the state, under the supervision of experienced faculty. Through these projects, students gain firsthand and practical experience in the application of previously studied theory, and economic development professionals receive technical assistance that might not otherwise be available. 

Dr. Rayman Mohamad, Wayne State University's Master of Urban Planning capstone will be working with the 8 Mile Boulevard Association to conduct an analysis of the potential for economic development on both sides of the Southfield/Detroit and Oak Park/Detroit borders. The key elements of the project and corresponding plan will include: development of a database of potential redevelopment sites; uniform design guideline recommendations; recommendations for improved public transportation infrastructure; and survey of current business owners and residents on existing conditions.

Be sure to save the date for the upcoming Innovate Michigan! Summit on Thursday, August 15th. At the Summit, you will have the opportunity to learn more about various REI projects that seek to co-create innovative economic development tools, models, policies, and practices, in distressed regions of the state. 

Are you a new graduate or desiring to explore a career transition?

Join the National Service movement with AmeriCorps and Campus Compact! Currently, the MSU Center for Community & Economic Development is recruiting for three new research, outreach and engagement paid "volunteer" positions focused on, 1) Blue Zone Development, 2) Circular Economics, and 3) Community Benefit Agreements. Information is available on www.joinhandshake.com (Handshake) for postings # 8799568, # 8799640 and # 8799702 respectively. These positions will be housed at the Center and service members will be enrolled from June 17, 2024 - 2025 with the opportunity to re-up following 12-months successful completion. For more information please inquire with Mary ZumBrunnen and also check out the listings on https://ced.msu.edu/about-cced/student opportunities underneath "Open Positions". A living stipend of $1,755.32/mo. is provided with tuition assistance, paid time off, relocation support, and more. For more information about AmeriCorps*Volunteers in Service to America, please see www.americorps.gov. To learn about the Center, please view www.ced.msu.edu. 

To apply, please send your inquiry, cover letter and resume to Mary ZumBrunnen at zumbrun1@msu.edu.