UM-Dearborn’s iLabs’ eCities research recognizes Charter Township of Commerce for supporting business in their community!

Charter Townhip of Commerce, February 3, 2026 – The Charter Township of Commerce has been recognized for its successes and efforts in contributing to Michigan’s entrepreneurial growth and economic development in the annual eCities study conducted by researchers at iLabs, University of Michigan-Dearborn’s Center for Innovation. The Charter Township of Commerce was honored as a four-star community along with 94 other communities across the state.

We are excited to win the award again for 2025. This year makes 5 years in a row we have

received this award. It shows the great team work and dedication we have to all our

residents and businesses said Larry Gray, Township Supervisor.

The eCities study analyzed publicly available data from 277 communities from 54 counties in Michigan. Researchers focused on the five-year changes in property values, community assets, and tax rates, which can demonstrate the growth, investments, and cost of doing business within the community. For example, over the five-year period of 2020-2024, these communities increased their capital assets by an average of 5.14 percent per year by investments such as park and trail improvements, bridge reconstruction, and road projects. Further, these places are home to 86 percent of Michigan’s real commercial property and have 63 percent of the state’s total property value. Communities that have seen the strongest growth in business development over the past five years, while controlling the costs of doing business in town, are designated as five- and four-star communities.

Although accounting for less than 20 percent of the State’s cities and townships, the 277 communities analyzed are home to 71 percent of Michigan’s population and 86 percent of the state’s commercial property. “Each year, we are proud to recognize cities and townships throughout Michigan that support business growth and entrepreneurship in their communities,” said Kari Kowalski, Assistant Director of iLabs.


eCities homepage:
umdearborn.edu/ecities