Success story: New nonprofit to operate blue tech economy hub

September 4, 2024

A new economic era in the Grand Traverse area formally kicks off today in Greilickville, as NMC and the Discovery Pier (DP) formalize the structure of the Freshwater Research and Innovation Center which will create high-value, year-round jobs in sensor development, engineering, advanced manufacturing, and other areas related to freshwater and marine technologies.

NMC and DP will sign articles of incorporation for the nonprofit dedicated to managing and owning the Center, a 40,000 square foot facility and dockside learning lab situated on 17 acres of West Grand Traverse Bay frontage owned by DP. It will house research initiatives, start-ups, small businesses, water-related organizations, and NMC's Great Lakes Water Studies Institute.

Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist, center,  and FRIC supporters gather at the project site last year.Set to break ground in a year, the Center has already attracted $22.7 million in funding, including $15 million from the state of Michigan. It is envisioned as a hub for the region’s blue economy, a sector that is poised to be as important as lumber, agriculture and tourism have been.

"This partnership represents a pivotal moment for our community and region.” said NMC President Nick Nissley. “The Freshwater Research and Innovation Center will not only advance freshwater research and innovation but also provide significant economic and educational benefits." 

Discovery Pier CEO Matt McDonough said, “The Great Lakes face a myriad of challenges from PFAS, invasive species, climate impacts and more. Advancements in better technology and a skilled workforce are needed to understand and address these challenges. The Freshwater Center will be a place where new technologies are developed and a skilled workforce is trained to do that.

NMC and DP have each committed $3 million to the Center. Other key stakeholders include Traverse Connect, 20Fathoms, and Michigan Technological University (MTU), who will all have seats on a nine-member board of directors. This diverse board will ensure comprehensive oversight and strategic direction for the center. NMC and DP will maintain necessary reserved powers over key financial and operational decisions.

Warren Call, CEO of Traverse Connect, said, "The Freshwater Center is poised to establish Northern Michigan as a key player in the global blue economy, attracting businesses, talent, and investment to our region."

Construction bids are scheduled to be awarded this December, with construction set to start in fall 2025. The project is expected to be completed by spring 2027.