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I&M Launches Regional Economic Development Effort, Includes Benton Harbor Site
The utility company's new "Future Ready Sites Accelerator" program aims to prepare sites for potential manufacturers and large employers.
Published on Feb. 7, 2026
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Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) has selected a site in Benton Harbor, Michigan as part of its new regional economic development initiative called the "Future Ready Sites Accelerator" program. The program, launched in partnership with InSite Consulting, is designed to evaluate and prepare industrial sites across Indiana and Michigan to be more attractive for major business investments and expansions.
Why it matters
The goal of the Future Ready Sites Accelerator is to increase the number of "shovel-ready" locations that can compete for large-scale projects at the national level, bringing new jobs and expanding the local tax base. This effort could help revitalize the Benton Harbor area, which has faced economic challenges in recent years.
The details
Through the program, selected sites like the one in Benton Harbor's Lake Michigan Industrial Park will undergo in-depth analysis, site visits, and one-on-one coaching from InSite Consulting. The assessments will determine the sites' readiness for development and identify any infrastructure or environmental improvements needed to attract potential investors and large employers.
- I&M launched the Future Ready Sites Accelerator program in December 2025.
- The Benton Harbor site was selected as one of five locations across Indiana and Michigan to participate in the new initiative.
The players
Indiana Michigan Power (I&M)
A utility company that provides electricity to customers in Indiana and Michigan, and is launching the new regional economic development program.
InSite Consulting
A national firm specializing in industrial site evaluations that is partnering with I&M on the Future Ready Sites Accelerator program.
Lake Michigan Industrial Park
The industrial site in Benton Harbor, Michigan that was selected to participate in I&M's new economic development initiative.
What’s next
The Benton Harbor site in the Lake Michigan Industrial Park will undergo a comprehensive review by InSite Consulting to assess its infrastructure, environmental factors, and any development barriers.
The takeaway
I&M's new Future Ready Sites Accelerator program represents a proactive effort by the utility company to help prepare industrial sites across the region for potential major business investments. By working to make these locations more "shovel-ready," the program aims to attract new employers and jobs to communities like Benton Harbor that have faced economic challenges.
