Preface Part One Part Two Part Three Appendix back to main page
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Summary

Preface

Part One

Part Two

Automotive and Metal Fabrication

Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals

Health Care

Medical Equipment and Supplies

Plastics

Paper and Printing

Tourism and Entertainment

Banking/Finance

Food Products

Part Three

Appendix

 

Medical Equipment and Supplies
Medical Equipment and Supplier Cluster Action Initiatives

Two action initiatives are proposed, both of which link to broader regional Flagships:

  1. Improving Airline Transportation in the Region (Flagship)

    2. Objective: Ensure increased access to and from the region to key markets by determining our needs and collaborating in implementing solutions on schedules and increasing overall air service.

    Activities:

    • Organize an "Airline Taskforce": Create a group of business and community members to work with airlines and airports to determine the needs of the region and how these can be met.

    • Define Criteria: Develop criteria including: performance criteria, partnering options, and accountability guidelines, for guiding action.

    • Contact Other Regions: Approach Lansing and Battle Creek business leaders to determine their interest in non-stop service to top destinations, and later Grand Rapids.

    • Explore Alternatives: Consider organizing non-stop flight service in a manner similar to a "chartered flight" with a single, fully refundable fare for all departure times.

  2. Develop a "One-Stop Shop" for Business Expansion and Attraction (Flagship)

    3. Objective: Simplify the process by which companies interested in expanding locally or locating in this region can contact, query and secure answers on their development requirements by creating a new or improved regional information clearinghouse.

    Activities:

    • Evaluate Potential for Integration: Examine the capabilities of the Kalamazoo County Chamber and Battle Creek Unlimited to ascertain the adequacy and integration of services at the regional level.

    • Examine Approaches of Competitors: Assess experience and lessons learned of other economic regions.

    • Prepare Cross-Region Strategy: Determine requirements for an enhanced regional information clearinghouse function with authority to assist business.

    • Ensure Balance: Maintain a level playing field between existing and new businesses with regards to any planning or incentives.

  3. Attract Qualified Employees

    4. This challenge was deferred to the Skilled Worker Flagship which is now underway.

    Plastics