Transforming Workforce Challenges Into Opportunities
Comprehensive job creation and workforce transition program for displaced workers from SpartanNash, Steelcase, and Utz
Comprehensive job creation and workforce transition program for displaced workers from SpartanNash, Steelcase, and Utz
Target Beneficiaries
Displaced workers from major layoffs
Direct Jobs
Permanent positions created
Annual Economic Impact
For the Grand Rapids region
This comprehensive business plan outlines the development of an indoor soybean production facility specifically designed to address workforce displacement from major local employers including SpartanNash, Steelcase, and Utz.
The plan integrates multiple advanced frameworks to create a robust workforce transition roadmap that transforms economic disruption into community resilience and sustainable agricultural innovation.
Timeline to full operation
Six specialized tracks designed to match displaced workers' backgrounds with indoor farming requirements
12-week program for 150 participants
16-week program for 200 participants
8-week program for 100 participants
10-week program for 150 participants
14-week program for 80 participants
18-week program for 50 participants
470 direct jobs across 8 categories with clear advancement opportunities
Entry Level: $18-22/hour | Experienced: $24-28/hour
Entry Level: $20-25/hour | Experienced: $27-32/hour
Entry Level: $22-28/hour | Experienced: $30-38/hour
Entry Level: $24-30/hour | Experienced: $35-42/hour
Entry Level: $22-28/hour | Experienced: $32-40/hour
Entry Level: $28-35/hour | Experienced: $40-48/hour
Entry Level: $65K-75K | Experienced: $80K-95K
Entry Level: $16-20/hour | Experienced: $22-25/hour
On-the-job training, basic certification, mentorship
Advanced skills, cross-training, leadership prep
Team leadership, advanced certification, management training
Department leadership, strategic planning, mentoring
Quantifiable benefits for the Grand Rapids community
Total Jobs Created
Direct and indirect employment
Annual Wage Impact
Combined direct and indirect
Tax Revenue
Annual generation for community
5-Year ROI
Community investment return
27-month roadmap to full operation
Months 1-2
Months 1-2
Months 3-5
Months 6-11
Months 12-23
Months 24-27
Month 28+
Whether you're a displaced worker seeking new opportunities or a partner interested in supporting our mission, we welcome your involvement.