Our Civic Innovation Labs team is busy finding, researching, testing, and developing new approaches to civic engagement, placemaking, and redevelopment to share with community leaders. We focus on the latest trends in planning and community development with an eye on helping our members become more economically and environmentally sustainable. We have a track record of helping communities with transformative local projects and we would love to share what we’ve learned with you. Visit placemaking.mml.org for examples of past projects.
Contact
Melissa Milton-Pung, Program Manager, Policy Research Labs
[email protected], (734) 669-6328
Richard Murphy, Program Manager, Policy Research Labs
[email protected], (734) 669-6329
Placemaking and Redevelopment Assistance Programs
Crowdfunding
The League partners with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) and Patronicity to offer crowdfunding assistance for public space projects through the Public Spaces, Community Places program. Projects that meet program criteria can receive a funding match for the dollars raised through the Patronicity platform. In addition to this support for public projects, the League is also working to educate entrepreneurs and community leaders about the opportunities in Michigan for investment crowdfunding. Learn more about both types of funding at crowdfundingmi.com and contact League staff to discuss how it might apply in your community.
Redevelopment Ready Communities (RRC)
MEDC has established participation in the RRC program as baseline criteria for communities seeking to receive assistance for community development projects. League staff have an unparalleled depth of experience with RRC and, through support from MEDC, can offer our members assistance navigating the program. Please contact us for more details.
Michigan Vacant Property Campaign (MVPC)
MVPC is a partnership between the League and Center for Community Progress, Community Economic Development Association of Michigan, and Michigan Community Resources. Collectively, these entities work to assist local efforts to address the physical deterioration caused by vacant properties and preserve the places where people live, help struggling communities become stronger, and help people stay in the neighborhoods they love. MVPC offers pro bono education, technical resources, and customized site assessments. Learn more at michiganvacantproperty.org or contact League staff.
Michigan Green Communities Network (MGC)
MGC is a collaborative effort led by numerous local governments, statewide organizations and state agencies to share resources and knowledge around clean energy and environmental sustainability. Each year, participating communities have the opportunity to measure their progress and are recognized for their achievements via the MGC Challenge. Learn more and sign up at migreencommunities.com.