Housing Forward, the community-based housing initiative at the Midland Business Alliance, has been named the administrative lead for the Region G Regional Housing Partnership under the Michigan Statewide Housing Plan. The leadership transition is being carried out in close collaboration with the East Michigan Council of Governments (EMCOG), which previously coordinated the initiative.

Region G includes Arenac, Bay, Clare, Gladwin, Gratiot, Isabella, Midland, and Saginaw counties and plays a critical role in advancing local and regional solutions to housing availability, affordability, and quality.

“Stepping into this role allows Housing Forward to expand our work, both in size and scope, across the region,” said Jenifer Acosta, lead consultant for Housing Forward. “We are committed to accelerating progress through strong partnerships, better data, and on-the-ground collaboration that leads to real housing outcomes.”

The Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) created its first-ever Statewide Housing Plan in 2022. The plan aims to ensure all Michiganders have access to safe, attainable housing.

The Regional Housing Partnerships grew out of the Statewide Housing Plan to assist with implementation across the state. Region G's priorities include increasing the housing supply, preserving the existing stock, and opening new pathways to home ownership for more people.

The Regional Housing Partnership Plan for Region G was put into action in early 2024 with three committees led by local leaders, real estate and housing professionals, bankers, and private sector representatives.

As the administrative lead, Housing Forward will spearhead a coordinated regional effort to address housing challenges across the eight-counties within Region G. The initiative will bring together key stakeholders, streamline committee communications, and track vital housing trends to drive informed decision-making.

A core part of this effort includes leading targeted working groups focused on the Housing Ecosystem, Housing Stock, and Communication & Education—all components of the Region G Action Plan alongside the top priority identified among its stakeholders: a regionally-focused housing initiative.

Housing Forward will also lead public outreach efforts and engage local governments, housing providers, employers, and residents to shape and deliver housing strategies that respond to the unique needs of each Region G community.

"At its core, housing is economic development. By taking on the leadership of Region G’s Housing Partnership, we’re aligning regional housing efforts with long-term growth, talent and business attraction efforts of our Economic Development colleagues across all eight counties. Housing Forward is built to bring people together around ​our housing challenges and turn vision into action," said Nicole Wilson, Vice President - Economic Development. "Housing Forward is committed to supporting attainable workforce housing growth in Midland County first and foremost. This work is deeply important to our community's growth, and we're grateful that the Charles J. Strosacker and Midland Area Community Foundations continue to support this initiative and its outcomes."

With a focus on collaboration and measurable outcomes, Housing Forward is set to play an essential role in turning strategy into action.

“We are grateful for EMCOG’s leadership and support in making this a smooth transition,” Acosta said. “This is an opportunity to continue moving the region forward with clarity, consistency, and collaboration.”

Housing Forward will begin committee engagement and data collection immediately, with the first full-region meeting under new leadership expected this summer.

To learn more about the project, receive updates, or become involved in one of the committees, fill out the Region G Housing Partnership interest form here.

About Housing Forward

A community-based initiative to holistically approach and implement solutions to develop and rehabilitate attainable housing throughout Midland County.

Learn more on the MBA's website and reach us at HousingForward@mbami.org.

About the Midland Business Alliance

The Midland Business Alliance (MBA) represents more than 3,000 businesses as Midland's business hub. The goal of the MBA is to support the attraction, development and growth of businesses throughout Midland by providing an integrated portfolio of tools and resources. Additionally, the MBA manages the Midland Area Farmers Market and Midland Blooms.

Visit our website at www.MBAmi.org for more information.