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The Grand Rapids Economic Development Office is your liaison with City services and a clearinghouse for information and assistance. Contact Business Advocate at (616) 456-3196.

Opening a New Business

Get a "new business kit" from the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce. Call (616) 771-0300 or go to www.grandrapids.org.

Obtaining Business Licenses

Contact the Licensing Coordinator at the Grand Rapids City Clerk’s office. Call (616) 456-3017.

For Business Advice

Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce Business Assistance Program provides low- or no-cost advice to small businesses. To learn more go to www.grandrapids.org or call 616 771-0320.

The Michigan Small Business Development Center offers information and advice, and can help you develop a business plan. Call (616) 771-6880.

Financing, Tax and Incentive Programs

Looking for financing? Interested in tax incentives? In the market for a low-interest loan? Call the Grand Rapids Economic Development Office Economic Coordinator at (616) 456-3196.

Relocating your Manufacturing Business

Considering locating or relocating your manufacturing in Grand Rapids? The Right Place Program has programs and incentives specifically for manufacturers. Call (616) 771-0325 or visit www.rightplace.org.

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Locating Downtown

The Business Advocate at the Economic Development Office tracks available space and can help you start your search. Call (616) 456-3196.

Interested in Renaissance Zones?

The State of Michigan has designated a total of 800 properties within six areas of Grand Rapids as tax-free. For information, contact The Grand Rapids Economic Development Office Business Advocate at (616) 456-3196.

Interested in Brownfield sites?

It’s now easier to remediate contaminated property. For information, call the City of Grand Rapids Planning Department at (616) 456-3031.

Interested in SmartZones?

Grand Rapids is home to only one of 11 SmartZones located throughout the state. For information, contact The Grand Rapids Economic Development Office Business Advocate at (616) 456-3196.

Building and Renovating

Need a building permit? Have a zoning or site review questions? Need a site plan review? Questions about signage requirements? Call the City of Grand Rapids Planning Department at (616) 456-3017.

Restoring or Renovating a Historic Building?

If your building is in one of the City’s historic areas, you need approval prior to changing or improving its exterior appearance. Call the City Zoning Office at (616) 456-3159.

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