The Right Place, Franklin Partners, and City of Wyoming Awarded “Deal of the Year” in Real Estate/Development by Crain’s Grand Rapids Business

The Right Place, Inc., in partnership with the City of Wyoming and Franklin Partners, has been awarded the 2025 Deal of the Year in the Real Estate/Development category by Crain’s Grand Rapids Business as part of its annual M&A Deals and Dealmakers Awards.

Each year, the awards celebrate transformational deals and visionary dealmakers who contribute to West Michigan’s economic growth and community impact. This year’s recognition highlights the collaborative effort that brought new life to Site 36 in the City of Wyoming, a 74-acre site that had remained vacant for 15+ years.

The winning “community deal” brought Corewell Health, Benteler Automotive, and Gelock Heavy Movers to the long-dormant site, representing a significant win for the region’s economic development and job creation efforts.

“This project is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together,” said Randy Thelen, President and CEO of The Right Place. “From city leaders and the development team at Franklin Partners, to our team at The Right Place, and the three outstanding companies that have committed to this site, this has been a collective effort, built on shared vision, hard work, and persistence.”

The Right Place also assisted the City of Wyoming in obtaining a $450,000 grant through the MEDC to develop the new outdoor marketplace, Godwin Mercado, at the site.

Being recognized alongside other regional leaders underscores The Right Place’s commitment to driving sustainable economic growth through strategic partnerships and high-impact community development.

Read more about the recognition from Crain’s.