Grand Rapids metro area is part of the Empowering American Citizens Initiative [Video]

GRAND RAPIDS. MICH. — In today’s economy, West Michigan competes with other regions for employees and sales. To help, Fifth Third Bank, along with the Kenan Institute, has launched the Empowering American Cities Initiative, delivering relevant, local information tailored to business leaders.

“These represent 150 what we call micro-economies, or extended metropolitan areas, or EMAS.” Said The Keenan Institute, as they detailed what’s in the Empowering American Citizens Initiative.

The initiative was made in collaboration between Fifth Third Bank and The University of North Carolina’s Keenan Institute.

“Different cities have different economies, and they have very different outcomes.” Said Fifth Third Bank Chief Economist Jeff Korzenik.

He says the website will give businesses and regions the data they need to compete, all in one spot.

“It’s a unique project because it looks at the economy not as a national economy, but as 150 micro-economies.” Said Korzenik.

Randy Thelen, The Right …