A new state pilot grant program aims to retain and attract creative-industries talent in five Michigan communities, including Traverse City.

The Michigan Film & Digital Media Office (MFDMO) - a division of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) - is launching the Creative Chambers program to foster opportunities for those working in the creative industries. The initiative hopes to boost talent in fields such as creative technology, graphic design, communication, marketing, visual and performing arts along with culture-centered and heritage professions.

A $300,000 grant allocated will be allocated to Traverse City over three years from MFDMO through a formal partnership with the Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce. “Through the Creative Chambers and creative alliance program, we hope to leverage partnerships and resources within our community to help spur the development and attraction of creative talent and industries to our region,” says Traverse City Area Chamber of Commerce CEO Doug Luciani.

Other selected Creative Chamber pilot communities include Ann Arbor/Washtenaw County, Detroit, Grand Rapids and Marquette. In total, nearly $1.5 million will be divided among the five regions "as part of a tailored approach to attract and retain the talent driving Michigan’s creative economy," according to the MEDC.