Investments will support new home builds and the construction or renovation of rental units 

Lansing, MI– On Dec 16th, Governor Gretchen Whitmer awarded grants to help construct 145 new homes and rental housing to increase the supply of housing units for Michiganders in six counties. The local organizations will receive $8.4 million to build 76 new homes and build or upgrade 69 rentals. 

“Expanding affordable housing is critical to helping Michigan families put down roots in their communities,” said Governor Whitmer. “That’s why I set a goal for Michigan to create or preserve 75,000 housing units over the next four years. On Dec 16th’s announcement will get us closer to that goal by investing in affordable housing across the state. I am committed to growing Michigan’s economy, lowering costs for families, and building a state where everyone can thrive.” 

The grants come as part of the Missing Middle program, which is administered by the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) and uses federal resources allocated under the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 and provides funding to developers investing in, constructing, or substantially rehabbing properties. The program encourages economic mobility and increases the attainable housing stock of both rental and for-sale properties in Michigan. The grants will reduce the amount charged to the buyer or renter, making the housing unit affordable for folks between 185% and 300% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. 

“We knew before the pandemic that there were limitations in our state’s housing stock, and the pandemic exacerbated some of those challenges. These funds are essential in helping us equitably fill some of those gaps by increasing affordability,” said?Chad Benson, rental development director at MSHDA. 

A total of $50 million was allocated to MSHDA for creation of the program. It’s anticipated a second funding round will be announced in spring 2023, when grants will be awarded for new construction and rehab for either single family homes or rental units. 

To qualify for the Missing Middle Housing Program, awardees had to have tax exempt nonprofit status and have a proven track record of doing business in Michigan. Here are the grantees, pending State Administrative Board approval:

*** Rehabilitated units. All other housing units are new. 

Michigan’s Statewide Housing Plan 

The Whitmer-Gilchrist Administration has taken a holistic approach to increase housing supply, lower costs, set bold housing goals, and make investments to make homes more comfortable, safe, and energy efficient. Governor Whitmer released Michigan's first Statewide Housing Plan in partnership with the Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) to ensure that every Michigander has access to affordable housing that meets their needs. To tackle the state's housing crisis, Governor Whitmer laid out the ambitious goal of creating 75,000 new or rehabilitated housing units within the next five years. On Dec 16th’s housing legislation will build on the work Governor Whitmer has started to help more families get into a home that meets their budget.