CRAINSGRANDRAPIDS.COM I DECEMBER 25, 2023
Waséyabek bolsters federal contracting unit Deal for Maryland software firm strengthens bid for defense work By Mark Sanchez
Mike Wall, executive director of automotive analysis at S&P Global Mobility in Grand Rapids, speaks during an automotive outlook event hosted by the Economic Club of Grand Rapids. | RUSS CLIMIE, TIBERIUS IMAGES
Auto suppliers: Set aside ‘West Michigan nice’ EV shift fuels uncertainty in negotiations with OEMs By Kayleigh Van Wyk
The widespread electrification of vehicles is poised to have a significant effect on automakers and the broader supply base, with some West Michigan-based suppliers already grappling with what the shift means for their business. While the industry in recent years has navigated supply chain challenges, with inflationary pressures and the recent strike by
the UAW against the Detroit 3, its future will be defined by how it tackles the transition to electric vehicles. That’s according to Mike Wall, executive director of automotive analysis at S&P Global Mobility in Grand Rapids, who spoke during an automotive outlook event hosted earlier this month by the Economic Club of Grand Rapids. “For folks that think, ‘Boy, we’re seeing a lot more EVs out there,’ we’re at the tip of the tip of
the iceberg,” Wall said. “They are coming.” According to data from S&P Global, more than 300 EV models will be available by 2030, up significantly from 26 models available in 2021. However, consumer skepticism toward EV technology continues to grow. S&P Global surveys found that openness to purchasing electric vehicles See AUTO on Page 20
Buying a majority stake in a Maryland software company gives Waséyabek Development Co. LLC a platform to delve deeper into federal contracting. The non-gaming economic development arm of the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi closed earlier this month on the deal with VES LLC, which is based at the U.S. Army’s Aberdeen Proving Ground and contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense for software and technical solutions. VES becomes part of Waséyabek’s Federal Group of compa-
Zoning changes would allow for more residential projects A Grand Rapids board has voted to rezone about 30 acres of land immediately west of the Grand River in an effort to spur the type of mixed-use development across the river to the east. The Grand Rapids Planning Commission voted unanimously on Dec. 14 to recommend the city commission rezone 22 parcels along Front and Scribner avenues, between Leonard Street to the north and Sixth Street to the
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nies. Terms of the deal were undisclosed. VES staff remain, including CEO Matthew Vidovich and COO Bryan LeBaron who continue to lead the company. Waséyabek Development connected with VES after deciding to focus in 2023 on growing its See WASÉYABEK on Page 20
City eyes 30 acres of riverfront land By Rachel Watson
VOL. 40, NO. 27 l COPYRIGHT 2023 CRAIN COMMUNICATIONS INC. l ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
Waséyabek Development Company’s deal for Maryland-based software firm VES will help bolster the investment company’s federal contracting portfolio.
south. The parcels — one of which is owned by the city while the rest have various private owners — sit between US-131 to the west and the Grand River to the east. The plan is to prepare the land for potential redevelopment, particularly housing. The request, initiated by city planning staff, is expected to move to the city commission for final approval in early 2024. The request would also benefit the developers of a multi-story residential tower that has stalled as city planners deliberated over options for the site. Planning Director Kristin Turkelson said even though this See RIVERFRONT on Page 20
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT $56M federal loan lays groundwork for tribe’s growth
CRYSTAL BALL See what executives think is in store for 2024
REAL ESTATE Rocky’s bar abruptly closes as Corewell Health scoops up more property
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