The Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) disbursed almost $300 million in taxpayer funds to non-profits across the state in 2024. While the agency’s mission focuses on job creation and economic growth, many of the funded projects appear to prioritize artistic and cultural initiatives over direct economic development.
Through a Freedom of Information Act request, writer Anna Hoffman of the Enjoyer website obtained a 34-page list of non-profits funded by MEDC in 2024. She explained, “Not only are some ‘for profit’ job-creation projects listed as non-profits on the report, but there are hundreds of smaller contributions to local charities, with a heavy focus on the arts.”