The City of Flint is being named a Gateway for Growth community by the New American Economy and Welcoming America, two organizations that advocate in favor of immigration as an economic development tool. Flint is among 12 communities receiving the distinction, including Wayne County and Grand Rapids in Michigan.
As an Gateway for Growth community, Flint will receive a combination of research, technical assistance, and matching grants from to support the development of strategies to welcome immigrants. Gateways for Growth also serves as a network in which local communities can learn from each other and share best practices.
“The facts prove it — cities that embrace immigration as a growth strategy reap the benefits,” said John Feinblatt, president of New American Economy. “The Gateways for Growth Challenge spurs more local leaders to step up and make immigration a centerpiece of their economic agenda.”
Approximately 2,000 immigrants live in the City of Flint, according to US Census Bureau data from 2017.
“The City of Flint is pleased to partner with the International Center of Greater Flint on this important initiative,” Mayor Karen Weaver said. “New Americans are a vital component of Flint’s rebirth and revitalization. We look forward to the strategies and ideas that will come from this exciting initiative.”
Related story: Building global connections locally with new International Center of Greater Flint
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