UM-Dearborn’s iLabs’ eCities research recognizes Charter Township of Commerce for supporting business in their community

UM-Dearborn’s iLabs’ eCities research recognizes Charter Township of Commerce for supporting business in their community

Charter Township of Commerce, December 23, 2024 – The Charter Township of Commerce
has been recognized for its successes and efforts in contributing to Michigan’s entrepreneurial
growth and economic development in the annual eCities study conducted by researchers at
iLabs, University of Michigan-Dearborn’s Office of Engagement and Impact. The Charter
Township of Commerce was honored as a five-star community along with 91 other communities
across the state.

We are excited to win the award again for 2024. This year makes 4 years in a row we have
received this award. It shows the great team work and dedication we have to all our
residents and businesses said Larry Gray, Township Supervisor.

The eCities study analyzed publicly available data from 277 communities from 54 counties in
Michigan. Researchers focused on the five-year changes in property values, community assets,
and tax rates, which can demonstrate the growth, investments, and cost of doing business
within the community. For example, over the five-year period of 2019-2023, these communities
increased their capital assets by an average of 3.71 percent per year by investments such as
new buildings, roads and bike paths, and library renovations. Further, these places are home to
86 percent of Michigan’s real commercial property and have 64 percent of the state’s total
property value. Communities that have seen the strongest growth in business development over
the past five years, while controlling the costs of doing business in town, are designated as five-
and four-star communities.

Although accounting for less than 20 percent of the State’s cities and townships, the 277
communities analyzed are home to 71 percent of Michigan’s population and 87 percent of the
state’s commercial property. “Each year, we enjoy recognizing the efforts made by cities and
townships throughout Michigan to support business growth and entrepreneurship in their
communities,” said Kari Kowalski, Assistant Director of iLabs.

eCities homepage:
umdearborn.edu/ecities