GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Grand Rapids’ proposed amphitheater will bear the name of Acrisure.

Acrisure, an insurance broker and financial technology company, is providing $30 million to support the project.

“Today, we celebrate one of West Michigan’s leading companies and its commitment to making a positive impact on the future of our city and our region,” said Carol Van Andel, co-chair of development organization Grand Action 2.0.

Acrisure’s name can also be found on the Studio Park building at Ottawa Avenue and Oakes Street SW, where it has been an anchor tenant since 2021.

“We are thrilled to play a role in the development and growth of Grand Rapids,” Acrisure CEO Greg Williams said. “The Acrisure Amphitheater is poised to be the next great cultural landmark of the city and region. It is a great honor to have our name associated with such a first-class venue in a growing and dynamic city . . . a place we call home. As stated before, our intent was to not just move into Grand Rapids, but to have real impact once here. This contribution, along with others we’ve made, helps fulfill that commitment.”

Grand Action 2.0
Co chair Tom Welch announces Acrisure as the lead name sponsor for the planned 12 thousand seat amphitheater set to be built in downtown Grand Rapids. Acrisure is providing $30 million towards the project. pic.twitter.com/my7s3fr1yS

— joelafurgey (@joelafurgey) September 22, 2023

The amphitheater along the Grand River on Market Avenue near US-131 is still in the works, but when it’s done it’s expected to have a capacity of about 12,000 and host around 50 events per season.

Grand Action 2.0, the group behind the amphitheater vision, is aiming to raise $70 million in private donations to fund the project. With a total price tag of $184 million, it will also require $114 million in public funding.

The Grand Rapids-Kent County Convention/Arena Authority will own and operate the amphitheater after its anticipated completion in the spring of 2026.

The plot where it is expected to be built, 201 Market, has been eyed for redevelopment for years. It currently houses Grand Rapids public works.

The city of Grand Rapids on Friday closed on the deal to purchase a former Kent County Road Commission site on Scribner Avenue NW. It will move public works there, freeing up a big chunk of the 31-acre riverfront development site that will be anchored by the amphitheater.

The move won’t happen until 2026, so the city still has to find a temporary location for some city operations so construction on the amphitheater can begin next spring. 

“It’s a big lift. It’s a real big lift,” Grand Action 2.0 Executive Director Kara Wood said.

But, she added, no worries”

“Really, this is a great exciting launch point for us moving forward.”