This study examined the economic development role of small businesses in Macomb County, Michigan, in order to identify those businesses which are most significant in terms of their contribution to economic development and, which therefore, would warrant public support for their retention and growth. Using these criteria, the study isolated the role played by the tool and die, machine making, and fabricated metal parts industries. In addition, the study considered the significance of administrative and auxiliary businesses, the coordinating and research arms of manufacturing industries in Macomb County. While the latest economic census of Macomb County private businesses revealed that these areas have suffered a relative deline over the past 7 years, considerable amounts of wages are still earned in these industries. Although service sector employment (a low-wage industry) has grown, the manufacturing area still accounts for a majority of the wages earned in Macomb County. The study concluded, therefore, that the economic development of Macomb County would best be served by retaining and expanding these high-wage industries. The study suggested several ways of implementing this goal: first, the establishment of a county-wide technology center that can conduct research and aid in developing the necessary machinery to enable the metal-bending industries to remain competitive; second, the establishment of an import-export center that can aid these industries in penetrating foreign markets; and third, the application of job training funds to the needs of individuals within these industries. The study anticipates a key role for Macomb Community College in working with government, business, labor, and the community to rejuvenate and retain the metal-bending industries. (Author/KC)