Northern Michigan Leaders Gather at Sold-Out Economic Symposium to Discuss Region’s Economic Future
340 business, government, and community leaders from across Northern Michigan gathered on May 15 at Boyne Mountain Resort for the 2026 Economic Symposium, hosted by the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance.
The sold-out event brought together regional leaders to discuss the opportunities and challenges shaping Northern Michigan’s economy, with a strong focus on workforce shortages, attainable housing, childcare access, industry growth, and regional collaboration.
A highlight of the event was the release of the Spring 2026 edition of the Economic Pulse Report, the NLEA’s bi-annual publication that provides an up-to-date snapshot of Northern Michigan’s economy through survey data collected from local businesses and government leaders.
According to the report, surveyed business owners in the NLEA region identified staffing, attainable housing, and childcare as the top three barriers to business growth. Businesses experiencing staffing shortages estimated they could hire an additional 321 employees over the next two years if a more robust talent pool were available.
“The conversations taking place at the Economic Symposium reflect both the challenges and the tremendous opportunities facing Northern Michigan,” said Payton Heins, President and CEO of the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance. “Business and community leaders across the region are looking for collaborative solutions that support long-term economic growth, workforce development, and vibrant communities.”
The symposium’s keynote address was delivered by David Malpass, who served as President of the World Bank from 2019 to 2023 and is currently a Distinguished Fellow at Purdue University’s School of Business. Malpass also shared his Northern Michigan roots, having been raised in East Jordan and Petoskey, respectively.
The symposium also recognized outstanding leaders and organizations making significant contributions to Northern Michigan’s economic growth and community vitality. Precision Hardwoods received the Innovative Financing Award for its creative approach to financing business growth. Aster Brands was honored with the Project of the Year Award in recognition of its continued innovation and growth. The Guts and Grit Award was presented to Victories Square, Lofts at Lumber Square, and The Block at Petoskey for their dedication to advancing transformative housing projects in Petoskey.
The event concluded with a “Conversation with the Northern Michigan Caucus,” featuring State Representative Parker Fairbairn, State Representative Cam Cavitt, and State Senator John Damoose. The discussion focused on issues impacting Northern Michigan communities, businesses, and economic development efforts including the importance of investing in infrastructure, reducing barriers to housing and childcare opportunities, and supporting small business.
Attendees also participated in four industry-focused breakout sessions designed to highlight the strength and diversity of Northern Michigan’s economy:
- Made in Northern explored the region’s manufacturing sector and featured panelists Mandy Chmura (Temprel), Jim Dunn (Dayton Lamina), Joy Korte (Moran Iron Works), and Fred Powell (Manthei Wood Products).
- Grown in Northern Michigan focused on agriculture and agribusiness, with panelists Jimmy Spencer (Pond Hill Farm), Bob Sherman (Burnette Foods), Todd Peterson (Maple Moon Sugarbush and Winery), and Dr. Tim Boring (Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development).
- Built in Northern Michigan highlighted the construction industry and included Rocky Beydoun (Power Construction), Dan Brown (Burdco Incorporated), Ben Brower (Stillwater Custom Cabinetry), and Travis Lake (Kokosing).
- Open for Business examined how communities can foster investment-friendly environments and featured Mayor Melyssa Lindenthal (City of East Jordan), Travis Alden (SME), Emily Hackworth (City Manager, St. Joseph), and Isaac Hall (Great Lakes Capital).
The NLEA expressed appreciation to the sponsors whose support helped make the event possible, including Consumers Energy, ITC Holdings, Enbridge, Great Lakes Energy, Networks Northwest, Baker College, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Kilwins, Cunningham-Limp, Munson Healthcare, Artemis Development, Boyne Mountain Resort, Hartleb Insurance Agency, Burdco Incorporated, Event Theory, Enhance, and Short’s Brewing.
