Develop & Invest

Opportunities for Development and Investment

Southfield offers unmatched advantages for development and reinvestment, with a central Metro Detroit location at the Center of It All, a strong and diverse commercial footprint, and citywide, development-ready infrastructure. Supported by a proactive City team and a streamlined review process, Southfield is a prime destination for real-estate investment, redevelopment, and corporate expansion.

Why Invest in Southfield?

Location & Market Strengths

Southfield’s central, freeway-connected location and strong commercial base create a powerful environment for large-scale investment and redevelopment.

•    Central Metro Detroit hub:  "The Center of It All"
•    Immediate access to I-696, M-10, and Telegraph Road
•    High corporate density and strong daytime population
•    Diverse office, tech, and industrial market activity

 

Talent & Education

Southfield benefits from a deep regional talent pipeline supported by universities and training institutions.

• Lawrence Technological University (LTU) talent pipeline
• Access to top regional universities
• Diverse, highly skilled professional and technical workforce

Innovation Ecosystem

Southfield’s innovation district supports product development, prototyping, and early-stage commercialization.
•    Centrepolis SmartZone advantage
•    Product development support
•    Prototyping labs and advanced testing capabilities
•    Hardware and manufacturing innovation resources
•    Ideal for tech, mobility, clean-tech, and emerging industries

 

Economic Development Tools & Incentives

Southfield offers a range of incentives to support redevelopment, reinvestment, and job creation. The Business & Economic Development Department (BED) coordinates most local and state incentive programs, ensuring projects move smoothly through the review and approval process.

Brownfield Incentives
Brownfield matters are administered through the Southfield Brownfield Redevelopment Authority (SBRA).

Typical tools include environmental assessment support, eligible activity reimbursement, and tax-increment financing (TIF) for redevelopment projects.

Local & State Incentives Coordinated by BED
BED works directly with the Michigan State Tax Commission and the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) to coordinate the following programs:
• PA 146 — Obsolete Property Rehabilitation Act (OPRA)
• PA 198 — Industrial Facilities Exemption (Industrial, R&D, Tech)
• PA 210 — Commercial Rehabilitation Act
• PA 328 — Personal Property Tax Exemption

Other incentive programs are managed through the State of Michigan. These programs may support rehabilitation, renovation, modernization, new equipment, or facility investment depending on the statute and eligibility. Click the button below for more information.

Economic Development Incentives & Applications