MEDC grant program powers new business development at innovative tech firm

Baker Engineering, a leader in power, propulsion and advanced technology solutions for aerospace, defense industry companies and government-contracting agencies, announced today it has added staffing and innovative manufacturing and research equipment as a result of a state grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

The company, which is owned by the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of the Potawatomi (NHBP) Tribe, obtained two grants totaling $158,800 from the MEDC’s Tribal Business Development Program. The grants were used to purchase workstations, manufacturing tools, technology updates, laboratory equipment, software and hardware used for naval command operations, and a state-of-the-art dynamometer for high-performance engine testing. With the increased production capabilities, Baker Engineering secured contracts with new customers, including the U.S. Coast Guard, requiring the addition of two new staff members.

“As a small business competing in the global power and propulsion industry, we need the latest equipment to meet the needs of our customers. However, that equipment can be costly, so we’re grateful to receive these two grants from the MEDC’s Tribal Business Development Program. They were essential in helping us to add equipment and staff, and subsequently drive new business growth for our firm.”

Luke Wackerle

President, Baker Engineering

Baker Engineering and MEDC

Baker Engineering is based in Nunica, Michigan, and was founded in 1965. It specializes in custom propulsion solutions for military and commercial manned and unmanned systems. The company performs research, design, testing and manufacturing of combustion engines. Baker was purchased by Waséyabek Development Company in 2018. Waséyabek is the non-gaming economic development company of the NHBP.

“We’re thrilled to see how these targeted grants were used to spur economic growth in the West Michigan region,” said Tom Durkee, Project Manager of the MEDC Tribal Business Development Program. “Our goal is to be a resource for Michigan’s federally recognized Tribes, supporting them as they pursue economic sustainability through business growth and diversification. Our Tribal partners and our state’s overall economic ecosystem benefit when we work together to promote entrepreneurship in Indian Country.”

“Economic development is powered by investment, and that’s exactly what the MEDC Tribal Business Development Program grants provided to this Tribally-owned company. Indian Country is fortunate to have the MEDC as a partner as Michigan Tribes work to build greater economic sustainability and prosperity in our state.”

Deidra Mitchell

President & CEO, Waséyabek

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