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Michigan ranks as a top 5 state for agricultural diversity in the nation.
Michigan is home to more than 2,000 food manufacturers and employ almost 38,000 people in the state, producing over $23 billion of economic activity in 2023.
Michigan is the No. 1 producer of tart cherries (77% of total U.S. production in 2025), pickling cucumbers, dry beans, chestnuts and asparagus. And Michigan ranks first in milk production per cow.
Michigan ranks #11 in the nation and #2 in the Midwest for wine production.
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A Taste of Michigan
As the second-most agriculturally diverse state in the nation, it’s no surprise that some of your favorite crops are grown in Michigan. Agriculture has cemented its position as a leading industry in the state, directly supporting 805,000 jobs and generating an annual $104.7 billion in total economic impact in Michigan.
Michigan is home to nearly 1,800 dairy farms with 427,000 dairy cows. In 2019, Michigan produced 11.4 billion pounds of milk, accounting for 5.2% of total U.S. milk production. This type of agribusiness environment along with MEDC’s support was critical in securing projects like the 142-acre site in St. Johns, which was chosen in Fall 2018 as the location for a new dairy processing facility by Spartan Michigan, LLC. When completed this joint venture between Glanbia plc, Dairy Farmers of America, Inc. and Select Milk Producers, Inc. is expected to manufacture cheese, whey protein powder and process more than 8-million pounds of milk per day, making it among the largest dairy processing facilities in the nation.
The project is supported by an estimated $27.6 million in grants and tax abatements from Michigan Strategic Fund and our partners including the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, and Michigan Department of Transportation. The project is expected to generate a total investment of $425 million and create up to 259 jobs, helping Mid-Michigan workers earn stronger wages and further invigorating Michigan’s dairy industry.
Top Agribusiness Companies in Michigan
Michigan's optimal resources for the agriculture industry is highlighted in several episodes of The Michigan Opportunity Podcast. Now in its sixth season, host Ed Clemente has been joined by several guests specializing in agribusiness, agritourism, and more. Click on the episode links to the right and listen to insightful conversations and hear about new, emerging global trends.
Recent Agribusiness Episodes:
Living in Michigan
Michigan’s attractive business climate is surpassed only by its natural beauty and active lifestyle. With four seasons, 11,000 lakes and the country’s longest freshwater coastline, Michigan offers ample opportunities to enjoy all kinds of recreational activities. We also have the lowest cost of living of any state in the Midwest. When it comes to living and doing business, nothing compares to Pure Michigan.
Michigan is an Industry Leader
