Economic Development Since it's beginning, Decatur has attracted a variety of industries that have helped the area grow and draw in new settlers and residents. The first settlers arrived to "Little Prairie Ronde" in 1829 to farm the rich soil and take advantage of the abundance of the surrounding lakes and forests. The coming of the railroad in 1848 determined the location of the Village of Decatur and also opened the door to industry. By the turn of the 20th century, Decatur had attracted sawmills, a tannery, a stave factory, several flour mills, grain and produce warehouses and a stockyard. Immigrants from Ireland, Holland and central Europe poured into the area surrounding the village to farm the fertile land. This history of industry and spirit of commerce continues in Decatur today. Ideally situated between Detroit and Chicago on I-94, Decatur offers business owners a sound employee base and room for growth.

Schools Decatur Public Schools are committed to providing every student with the academic challenges and support necessary for individual success. With nearly 1,200 students from pre-Kindergarten through twelfth grade, our staff commits to the belief that "it takes a village" to raise a child. That's why Decatur Public Schools shows its dedication to student advancement with state-of-the-art technology facilities, computers in every classroom, new gym facilities and more. To find out more about Decatur Public Schools, please call (269) 423-6800 or visit www.raiderpride.org.

Industry While there are over 50 companies involved in Decatur's Chamber of Commerce, a handful of large companies drive Decatur's economy. Special-Lite, Inc. produces high quality Fiberglass Reinforced Polyester, Aluminum Flush, Stile and Rail, Colonial, Wood Grain, and Sanitary doors in many custom and standard configurations to meet your needs. Midwest Fasteners is the second largest employer in the Decatur area with over 100 loyal employees. Midwest Fasteners is an industry leader in the manufacturing and supply of StudWelded Fasteners and StudWelding Systems. The company recently completed a large expansion making room for their expected growth. Northstar Grain, LLC features a 160+ year old feed mill that provides local agricultural producers with the agronomy & nutritional services they need to increase their fertility and profitability. With nearly 6 million bushels of grain marketed annually and the continual expansion of grain storage and rail facilities, Northstar Grain has positioned themselves to be a leader in the grain handling and fertilizer industries.

Available Space Decatur would love to welcome your new business! Several existing buildings, as well as buildable properties, are available for incoming industry. Please contact the Village Manager to find out more at (269) 423-6114.