Economic Development

The City of Coopersville is committed to promoting economic development and encouraging growth by offering tools for business owners to build, grow, and expand in Coopersville. Two programs include:

  • Industrial Facilities Tax Abatement Program
  • Renaissance Tool & Die Zones

See below for more information about these programs.

Industrial Facilities Tax Abatement Program

What is an Industrial Facilities Tax (IFT) Abatement?


Industrial Facilities Tax (IFT) abatements suspend certain taxes on industrial or manufacturing facilities and equipment (as listed on the application) for a specific period of time. Abatements are granted by the legislative body of the city, township, or village in which the facility will be located, with oversight provided by the State.

The City of Coopersville began approving the first industrial districts in early 1978 and abatements in July 1979. Using specific criteria for selection and follow through, the Industrial Tax Abatement Program meets the City’s primary objective of stabilizing property taxes and expanding and diversifying the City’s tax base.

The City has put together a comprehensive and detailed report concerning purpose, history, and current program for IFT Abatements. Click on the following links to download the report or learn about the City's process:


To apply for an IFT abatement in Coopersville, supply the following documents to the City Clerk:
  • Cover Letter, including size, scope, and years requested
  • State Application
  • Building Permit
  • Equipment list (building/land)
  • Form 3222 (if applicable)
  • Lease Agreement (if applicable)
  • $750 fee (check, cash, or money order)

In order for the State to process abatement requests for the following calendar/tax year, applications must be received at City Hall by September 1 if a Industrial Development District (IDD) needs to be created and September 30 if the business is already in an IDD. The City requires 30 days to create an IDD and 30 days to process IFT Applications before they can be submitted to the State Tax Commission. Any application received by the State after October 31 may or may not be considered or awarded by the end of the calendar/tax year.

If you have questions or require assistance with any portion of the application process, please contact the City Clerk at (616) 997-9731 or clerk@cityofcoopersville.com. Another excellent resource is Amanda Murrey of Lakeshore Advantage, who can be contacted at  amanda.murray@lakeshoreadvantage.com or (616) 776-5226 ext 205. 

Renaissance Tool & Die Zones

The MEDC, Michigan Strategic Fund, and the City encourage tool and die manufacturers to participate in this program. 

Established as an innovative economic development program in 1996, Renaissance Zones are regions of the state set aside as virtually tax-free for any business or resident presently located in or moving to one of the zones. The expanded program now comprises 166 zones and sub-zones throughout the state.The MEDC approved the first Coopersville Tooling Coalition zone in 2005, and it has expanded and been renewed over the years and includes several tool & die companies within the city.  

In order to qualify, the property designated must be leased or owned by a qualified tool and die business and used primarily for tool and die operations. The company must have fewer than 50 full-time employees and the City Council must agree by resolution to abate the business' local taxes. In addition, the business must enter into a qualified collaborative agreement which designates synergistic opportunities with other qualified tool and die shops, including collaborative marketing and the development of standardized processes and management methods.

All tool and die companies required to report to the Michigan Strategic Fund must file a progress report with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation on January 31 of each year. Companies required to report should use the Renaissance Zone Progress Reporting Form.

If you would like more information:


To find out more information or begin the application process, contact the MEDC at (888) 522-0103 or email RenZoneProgram@michigan.org. Alternately, contact the Coopersville Tooling Coalition, Phillip Allor at (616) 837-9721.

Partner Organizations

The City of Coopersville works directly with several organizations which provide support services, information, and programs to businesses. Contact them via their websites for more information.

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Downtown Development Authority
The DDA corrects and prevents deterioration in the business districts, encourages historic preservation, creates and implements development plans, and promotes economic growth in the DDA. 
CoopersvilleDDA.com








​Successful businesses rely on partners with a focus on the future, whose vision for tomorrow drives innovation today, whose big ideas are matched only by their ability to achieve them. Lakeshore Advantage is that kind of partner. Lakeshore Advantage is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to economic growth in West Michigan.
LakeshoreAdvantage.com


Michigan Economic Development Corporation

The MEDC has assisted the city to build and grow infrastructure by providing grants. The MEDC has been instrumental in its support of Coopersville's development.

Vision is nothing without the ability of implementation. In order for success to be achieved, opportunities must first be created. The MEDC strives for partnerships that will flourish with the application of programs, incentives and innovative strategies.
MichiganBusiness.org