Southwest Michigan First shares the good news of the region it serves on FIRST & 42—our own media platform where we communicate about the people and companies you should get to know, community events, economic updates and more.
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Business Consulting, Community Development, Economic Development, and More
Southwest Michigan First distributes positive news about the region it serves through FIRST & 42, a digital platform offering updates on what the organization and local businesses are doing, as well as other regional happenings, in our geographical latitude—parallel 42. You can enjoy FIRST & 42 news from us in two ways: when you want it on the standalone site or delivered straight to your inbox through our digital newsletter called “First & 42: The Kalamazoo Region’s Digital Daily” on Mondays. Subscriptions are free, so there is no excuse not to get all that you need to know fast and at your fingertips—meaning on your phone, computer or watch.
If you’re interested in staying up to date with all of our latest news and announcements, click the button below to explore all that FIRST & 42 has to offer.
Berrien Community Foundation awards $ 470,000 in scholarships to 84 students
6/28/2025
Berrien Community Foundation is awarding more than $470,000 in scholarships to support the academic journeys of 84 Southwest Michigan students.
Berrien Community Foundation (BCF) hosted its “Wicked Adventure” Scholarship Celebration this week at Hidden Pointe Event Hall in Benton Harbor.
New Leadership at Disability Network Southwest Michigan
5/28/2025
We are proud to welcome Kelley Kellis (she/her) as the new President & CEO of Disability Network Southwest Michigan. A lifelong resident of southwest Michigan, Kelley brings a strong connection to our region and deep experience in building equitable, people-centered systems.
Making radio waves: Western’s student-run station wins best in nation
4/28/2025
It’s always a great day to be a Bronco—especially when that day includes being recognized as the best college radio station in the nation. Western Michigan University’s 89.1 WIDR-FM earned top billing with the Abraham & Borst Award for Best Overall Station.
Welcome to LaFontaine Automotive Group: Driving the Future in Kalamazoo
2/28/2025
LaFontaine Automotive Group is thrilled to join the vibrant Kalamazoo community. As a Michigan-based, family-owned business with nearly 50 years of experience in the automotive industry, we are committed to building lasting relationships.
One of Michigan’s most beloved fast-food chains is set to make a return this year in a major way. It’s almost like Christmas Day for olive burger fanatics statewide! Here’s what we know so far:
Michigan Works! Recognizes Outstanding Workforce Development Achievements
12/30/2024
The Michigan Works SW Workforce Development Board highlighted significant achievements in workforce development during its recent meeting, unveiling the 2024 Annual Report. The report celebrated the contributions of individuals and organizations driving workforce innovation and growth.
Michigan Cracks Top 10 in National Site Selection Ranking
11/16/2024
The state continues to reap the rewards of its Make It in Michigan economic development strategy, moving up two spots in Site Selection’s 2024 Business Climate Rankings.
How Discover Kalamazoo is reaching WMU students, visitors
10/28/2024
A new partnership between Western Michigan University and Discover Kalamazoo aims to get students more engaged in the community. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the WMU Student Center Wednesday afternoon for Discover Kalamazoo’s visitors’ center.
$56M Affordable Housing Development Coming to Kalamazoo
9/28/2024
A new $56 million affordable housing development is coming to Kalamazoo.
The 7.4-acre development, River’s Edge, is located on two parcels of land: 508 Harrison Street and 660 Gull Road. It will have 228 units, with 184 of the units being affordable…
Senior living facility plans 10 new buildings in Kalamazoo
8/28/2024
Developers at a Kalamazoo senior living facility are planning additional meetings with residents after some components of a new project angered neighbors. The 72-acre campus at 1400 N. Drake Road welcomed its first residents in 1975.
New tenant coming to century-old bank building in downtown Kalamazoo
7/28/2024
A new Horizon is coming to downtown Kalamazoo, as part of a vision to provide a variety of attractions and amenities in one corner of downtown.
Horizon Bank is planning to open a new professional office in the Monroe Building located at 151 E. Michigan Ave., according to Treystar, the owner of the