People at an outdoor event registration table, with two women seated behind the table and a man standing, filling out a form. The table has a purple tablecloth, laptops, pens, and a sign that reads 'Fork Fest is Back!' in front of the women. There are other people sitting at tables and a brick building with large windows in the background.

BUILD A PEOPLE FIRST ECONOMY

Become a Community Investor

A stronger Michigan economy is built by people who choose to invest in their communities.

As a Community Investor, you're joining a statewide movement of changemakers and leading organizations dedicated to building an economy where people and environmental wellbeing are essential.

80% of every Community Investor contribution will be reinvested directly into our communities through grants and no-interest loans that help local diverse-owned and purpose-driven businesses grow.

The remaining support strengthens the statewide ecosystem that makes this work possible:

  • Help businesses create better jobs, stronger workplaces, and healthier communities.

  • Equip organizations to improve their environmental sustainability through education, technical assistance, and peer learning.

  • Award grants that turn sustainability and community impact ideas into action.

  • Advance policies that support a resilient economy where people and environmental wellbeing are essential.

  • Convene leaders across sectors to solve Michigan's biggest economic, environmental, and workforce challenges.

Whether you choose a monthly or annual contribution, your investment strengthens Michigan's People First Economy and helps create lasting impact for businesses, workers, and communities across our state.

Suggested Business Donations

We believe in giving what you can. Those who have been long-term paying Local First members set the standard with the tiers below.

1-3 Employees

Entrepreneur

$16.25/mo or $195/year

4-12 Employees

Neighborhood

$24.59/mo or $295/yr

13-50 Employees

Small

$37.50/mo or $450/yr

126+ Employees

Large

$79.17/mo or $950/yr

51-125 Employees

Medium

$57.92/mo or $695/yr

“Joining People First Economy is a great opportunity to connect with local business owners and welcome others in the community to come to Meijer Gardens to see all that we have to offer.” - Frederik Meijer Gardens

Three people having a conversation inside a store near the entrance during our Michigan Good Business Summit.
Two women are engaged in a conversation at a social event, seated at a table decorated with purple flowers and gift bags. One woman has braided hair and is wearing a denim top, while the other has curly hair and is dressed in dark clothing.

500+

People Reached

Two men at an outdoor event under a tent. One man with a beard, plaid shirt, and cap holds a plate with food and smiles. The other man with short hair and a blue shirt holds a cup and plate, with a slight smile. There are stacked cups and a sign in the background.
Group of women at an event, some smiling and holding gifts, in a decorated indoor space with string lights and colorful wall art.