KALKASKA — WarBird Protection Group, Inc. is launching operations in Kalkaska after receiving state and local support for an expansion expected to create at least 110 new jobs in northern Michigan.
The company, founded in 2023 to develop personal protective products for law enforcement, military personnel and sportsmen, will collocate design, manufacturing, sales and distribution under one roof at its new facility. The project includes at least $3 million in capital investment, with jobs starting at $20.65 an hour, above the regional median wage.
The Michigan Strategic Fund board approved a $750,000 Michigan Business Development Program performance-based grant to support the project, which was also being considered in Florida and Arizona.
Local support is coming from the Village of Kalkaska and the Economic Development Corporation of the County of Kalkaska. Northwest Michigan Works! is offering a talent recruitment and training proposal valued at up to $307,870.
“This MEDC grant is a powerful endorsement of WarBird’s potential to drive economic growth and fulfill our life-saving mission,” said Matt Davis, WarBird CEO. “Every job created will contribute to the production of equipment that makes a real difference.”
Kalkaska Village Manager and Police Chief Aaron J. Popa said the addition of WarBird will benefit the community. “This is a great addition to our community and will create future commercial growth in our town,” Popa said. “As the Police Chief I will be proud to say our officers are wearing bulletproof vests that were manufactured by WarBird in our community.”
Jessica Willis, director of Northwest Michigan Works!, said the jobs will directly benefit the local economy. “Northwest Michigan Works! is committed to partnering with WarBird and MEDC to ensure this new development and growth is a success for our region,” Willis said.