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Economic Development Manager Jobs in Portage, MI

Cornerstone Research

Analyst

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$112K/yr

Each Cornerstone Research office has a Staffing & Development Manager, a dedicated professional who ... Developing financial and economic models; * Analyzing large datasets; * Examining market and ...

Cornerstone Research

Analyst

Kalamazoo, MI

$112K/yr

Each Cornerstone Research office has a Staffing & Development Manager, a dedicated professional who ... Developing financial and economic models; * Analyzing large datasets; * Examining market and ...

Walmart

(USA) Store Manager - Supercenter

Vicksburg, MI · On-site

$110K - $170K/yr

... development opportunities for management and hourly associates in a facility that may present ... of economic trends and community needs for budget forecasting Models enforces and provides ...

Walmart

(USA) Store Manager - Supercenter

Kalamazoo, MI · On-site

$110K - $170K/yr

... development opportunities for management and hourly associates in a facility that may present ... of economic trends and community needs for budget forecasting Models enforces and provides ...

Walmart

(USA) Store Manager - Supercenter

Bellevue, MI · On-site

$110K - $170K/yr

... development opportunities for management and hourly associates in a facility that may present ... of economic trends and community needs for budget forecasting Models enforces and provides ...

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All JobsEconomic Development JobsEconomic Development Manager JobsEconomic Development Manager Jobs in Portage, MI

Economic Development Manager information

See Portage, MI salary details

$29.1K

$96.7K

$145.5K

How much do economic development manager jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for economic development manager in Portage, MI is $96,728.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $76,500.00 and $116,900.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an economic development manager?

Economic Development Managers are professionals responsible for planning and implementing strategies to boost economic growth within a community, city, or region. They work with government agencies, businesses, and other stakeholders to attract new investments, support local businesses, and create jobs. Their role often involves analyzing economic data, coordinating development projects, and promoting the area to potential investors. By fostering a healthy business environment, they help improve the overall quality of life for residents.

What are some common challenges economic development managers face when balancing community needs with business interests?

Economic Development Managers often navigate the complex task of balancing the goals of attracting new businesses and investments with the needs and concerns of the local community. Challenges can include addressing potential impacts on housing, infrastructure, and the environment while ensuring job creation and economic growth. Success in this role relies on strong stakeholder engagement, transparent communication, and creative problem-solving to find solutions that benefit both the community and business partners. Collaboration with local government, business leaders, and residents is essential for developing sustainable, mutually beneficial strategies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an economic development manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Economic Development Manager, you need expertise in economic analysis, project management, and community engagement, typically supported by a degree in economics, urban planning, or public administration. Familiarity with GIS tools, economic modeling software, and grant management systems is often required, along with certifications like CEcD (Certified Economic Developer). Strong networking, negotiation, and communication skills help build effective partnerships and foster stakeholder collaboration. These competencies enable Economic Development Managers to drive sustainable growth, attract investment, and successfully implement development initiatives within communities.

What is the difference between Economic Development Manager vs Urban Planner?

AspectEconomic Development ManagerUrban Planner
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in economics, urban planning, or related field; often certifications in economic developmentBachelor's or master's in urban planning, geography, or related field; licensure may be required
Work EnvironmentGovernment agencies, economic development organizations, private sectorMunicipalities, government agencies, consulting firms
Employer & Industry UsageFocuses on economic growth, business attraction, and job creationFocuses on land use, zoning, and community development

While both roles aim to improve communities, the Economic Development Manager concentrates on economic growth and business development, whereas the Urban Planner focuses on land use and urban design. Their skills and work environments often overlap, but their core objectives differ.

Is economic development a good career path?

Economic development managers plan and implement strategies to improve local economies, often working with government agencies, businesses, and community organizations. The role requires strong analytical, communication, and project management skills, and it can offer opportunities for advancement and community impact. It is considered a stable career with demand in many regions, especially for those with relevant education and experience.

What job categories do people searching Economic Development Manager jobs in Portage, MI look for?

The top searched job categories for Economic Development Manager jobs in Portage, MI are:

What cities near Portage, MI are hiring for Economic Development Manager jobs?

Cities near Portage, MI with the most Economic Development Manager job openings:

Economic Development Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Economic Development Manager job openings in Portage, MI as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 21% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 90% Physical, 4% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,728 per year, or $46.5 per hour.

Fund Development Specialist - Kalamazoo

Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan

Kalamazoo, MI • On-site

$17.11/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 12 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Develop and maintain relationships with donors, volunteers, and community leaders to support fundraising efforts.

  • Make phone calls to set up meetings with corporate, individual, prospective, and lapsed donors, and meet with donors to deliver the Girl Scout mission and secure donations.

  • Maintain donor information in CRM (Donor Perfect) and assist with developing fund development plans, processes, and procedures.

Job description


Position Summary
Join our Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan (GSHOM) friendly and exciting Fund Development team. We want a highly motivated person to join our team as we work to ensure all girls gain courage, confidence, and character! Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan is the preeminent leadership development organization for girls in the nation.
In this position, you will be raising funds in multiple counties including corporate donors and individual donors. This position will coordinate fundraising efforts while cultivating and stewarding corporate/individual donors. You will be responsible for working with current donors, lapsed donors, and prospective donors. The Fund Development Specialist will provide input and actively participate in goals and objectives.
Essential Functions
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with donors, volunteers, and community leaders to support the growth of Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan.
  • Phone calls to set up donor meetings with corporate and individual donors.
  • Phone calls to prospective donors (cold calls), current donors, and lapsed donors.
  • Meet with corporate and individual donors. During these meetings, the candidate will be delivering the Girl Scout mission which will result in a donation.
  • Maintain donor information in CRM (Donor Perfect).
  • Assist with the development of all fund development plans, processes, and procedures.
  • Other duties assigned.
Preferred Competencies
  • Strong interpersonal and written skills with the goal of being persuasive.
  • Exceptional networking and donor relations skills.
  • Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
  • Attention to details.Proven to be organized and exhibit follow-through on tasks and goals.
  • Strong computer skills.
  • Ability to identify and analyze fundraising opportunities.

Organizational Values
  • Integrity: our people are hardworking, honest, effective communicators, and take responsibility for actions and outcomes, even when no one’s watching.  
  • Positive Mindset amp; Attitude: our people choose to perceive and react through a lens of empathy, enthusiasm, curiosity, and helpfulness while being passionate, solution-oriented, service-minded, and driving towards goals. 
  • Unquestionable Excellence: our people actively take initiative to fulfill our mission and are willing to work hard to bring our vision to life through resilience, determination, inspiration, personal growth and continuous learning. 
  • Mission Driven: our people are inclusive and care deeply about girl development. in partnership with stakeholders throughout the organization, they utilize strategic planning and patience to move strategy and the mission forward. 
  • Collaborative Changemaker: our people are intentionally present and forward thinkers dedicated to inspiring others and sharing skills through mentoring, service leadership, practicing radical candor, taking risks, intentional youth development, who are open to change and feedback.
Work Schedule
  • Full-time position working at least 40 hours per week.
  • More hours may be required during peak seasons.
  • Position may require multiple evenings and occasional weekend work.
  • Benefits
  • Medical, Dental, Vision
  • Life
  • Disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts
  • 403(b)
  • Vacation
  • Sick
  • Personal Leave
  • Holiday Pay
  • Mileage Reimbursement
Equal Employment Opportunities Statement
Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ancestry, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, marital status, religion, age, disability, gender identity, results of genetic testing, or service in the military. Equal employment opportunity applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leave of absence, compensation, and training.
Other Duties
Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.
Girl Scouts Heart of Michigan is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

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