"Michigan is not an island of misery, surrounded by prosperity," said Jim Epolito of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

Despite the struggles of the auto industry, Michigan isn't going down quietly.

"The Michigan Economic Growth Authority approved projects and incentives for projects to create over 7,400 jobs in Michigan," Governor Jennifer Granholm announced Monday.

More than 7,400 jobs statewide bringing more than $2.3 billion in investments. One of the companies will create hundreds of jobs in Eaton Rapids.

"Those jobs could have gone to Mexico," said Rep. Mike Simpson. "But we were able to put together an incentive package that made the new company, White and Green Motors, stay in Eaton Rapids and headquarter in Eaton Rapids."

The new company will expand where Von Weise once planned to and will invest $3.5 million into the facility. Plus...they're hiring.

"We've been operating since the 1940s," said CEO Marc Ryder. "It's basic manufacturing of electric motors."

Electric motors for snow blowers, lawnmowers, and snowmobiles. It should help to soften the blow of the thousands of jobs lost in the auto industry.

"There are all kinds of jobs for all kinds of people," the governor said.

But it may not have been possible without some help. The state offered White and Green Motors $1 million in tax breaks, in addition to the more than $200,000 in incentives offered by the city.

"Without the help, this opportunity and ability to create jobs may not have been available for us," Ryder said.

Nineteen other companies are expanding too, thanks to tax breaks. Many of those are in the renewable energy sector. Most are already hiring, others will put up a help wanted sign once construction of new facilities is complete.