|
Join us for the 2026 Economic Forecast Breakfast, featuring Dr. Paul Isely, Associate Dean and Professor of Economics at Grand Valley State University’s Seidman College of Business.
Dr. Isely will share his annual analysis of national, state, and regional economic trends - and what they mean for Northwest Ottawa County. From workforce and housing to inflation and consumer behavior, discover how upcoming shifts in the economy could impact your organization. Dr. Isely will prepare a personalized forecast specifically for our community.
This is more than a forecast - it’s your roadmap for planning ahead. Whether you’re refining your business strategy, preparing budgets, or exploring growth opportunities, Dr. Isely’s data-driven insights will help you make informed decisions for the year to come.
About the Speaker:
Dr. Paul Isely joined GVSU in 1995 after earning his Ph.D. and M.S. in Economics from Purdue University. With research rooted in West Michigan data, his work explores innovation, sustainability, and the forces shaping our regional economy.
| | |
Congratulations to Abiding Health Concierge Medicine on their ribbon cutting ceremony!
Abiding Health Concierge Medicine delivers personalized, evidence-driven care that listens deeply, treats thoughtfully, and adapts continually—so patients achieve lasting wellness and peace of mind.
Gabriel Dunn, MD, is a native of Grand Haven, a board-certified family medicine physician and owner of Abiding Health Concierge Medicine. Together with his wife, Ali Dunn, they strive to provide deeply personal, accessible healthcare—walking with you through every stage of life to support body, mind, and spirit.
Welcome, Dr. Gabriel and Ali Dunn, to the Grand Haven community and the Chamber of Commerce!
| Leadership Connect Education Day | |
Last week, our 2025-26 Leadership Connect cohort participated in Education Day, a day dedicated to deepening their understanding of the educational systems that serve Northwest Ottawa County.
Throughout the day participants heard from over 20 local education leaders representing local school districts, the Ottawa Area Intermediate School District (OAISD), Thompson M-Tec, MCC and GRCC. These leaders, through insightful presentations and honest conversations, shared valuable perspectives on both the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead; and reinforced the importance of informed leadership and advocacy to ensure sustainable and thriving systems.
One of the most impactful aspects of the day were the behind-the-scenes tours - including the Careerline Tech Center, Thompson M-Tec and GRCC - which helped participants visualize modern learning environments and allowed participants to witness students actively engaged in learning and preparing for their futures.
Thank you to all of the educators and administrators who generously shared their time, expertise and passion with this next generation of community leaders.
To learn more about Leadership Connect, reach out to Nicole here.
| Rise & Connect: Early Bird Networking Breakfast | |
These networking breakfasts do not happen without the generous support of our members! Consistently attracting over 70 attendees, these breakfasts are a warm and productive start to your Fridays. Will you sponsor the next breakfast to build relationships from all over Northwest Ottawa County?
January 16 at The Kirby House
February 20 at the Holiday Inn Spring Lake
March 20 at the Holiday Inn Spring Lake
EB Sponsor $400
- 4-minute presentation to attendees
- Company logo & link on event registration page
- Company logo on Early Bird Program
- Breakfast for (3)
-
Access to attendee list following event
EB Expo Table $300
- 8 ft table
- Sponsor recognition from the podium
- Company logo on Early Bird Program
- Company logo & link on event registration page
- Breakfast for (1)
- Marketing material to be handed out at expo table
- Access to attendee list following event
Email Heather Solomon here to sponsor your Early Bird Breakfast!
| | |
LEADS vs. Roundtables: Which is Right for You?
At the Chamber, we offer two powerful ways to connect - each with a unique focus. Whether you’re looking to grow your client list or grow your knowledge, here’s how to plug in:
| | |
LEADS Networking Groups
- Purpose: Build business through referrals and networking
- Membership: One person per industry (exclusive seat)
- Focus: Referrals, leads, and relationship‑building
- Frequency: Weekly meetings (Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays)
End Goal: Generate leads and business for members
| | |
Management Roundtables
- Purpose: Share knowledge, ideas, and best practices
- Membership: Open to multiple people from the same industry
- Focus: Peer learning, discussion, and problem‑solving
- Frequency: Monthly sessions
- End Goal: Gain insights and solutions to challenges
Roundtables offered: CEO, Manufacturing, HR, Marketing & Sales Leadership, Accounting
| | |
Both programs are designed to strengthen your business and your connections. Which one fits your goals best?
For more information or to get involved, contact: April Tripp Director of Programs & Events Office: 616.842.4910 | Direct: 616.846.3165 | email
| |
Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram so you don't miss anything! | |
Did you know flu germs can spread through tiny droplets from coughs, sneezes and even talking? It's important for those with higher risk of serious complications to get the flu vaccine and to be up to date on their COVID-19 vaccine and boosters.
To read about how contagious the flu is, take a look at this related article by Dr. James Grant, executive vice president and chief medical officer at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.
| | |
Our bi-weekly ENews reaches more than 3,600 engaged professionals in the community—don’t miss your chance to get noticed!
Advertising Opportunities:
-
Banner Ad – $75/issue, Image (750w x 200h), linked to your URL, PDF, or email.
-
Content Block Ad – $150/issue, Image (550w x 300h), 50–70 word description, linked to your URL, PDF, or email.
-
Member Spotlight – $250/issue, 350-word article (written by you, edited by the Chamber), 2 high-quality photos, plus feature placement on the Chamber Newsroom page & social media!
We’d love to feature your Member Spotlight in an upcoming issue!
Reach out to Heather to advertise in ENews.
| | |
Do you have a list of loved ones and people you want to recognize this holiday season, but decision fatigue is holding you back?
Consider Dune Dollars for anyone local - your mail carrier, our public safety officers, teachers, friends, neighbors, co-workers, coaches, and anyone else you want to celebrate and thank!
- Every Dune Dollar spent supports our neighborhood businesses instead of leaving our community.
- More support for small businesses means more opportunities for local workers.
- A strong local economy funds schools, parks, and essential services that benefit everyone.
- One card is customizable and can be spent at over 50 merchants.
For a full list of participating merchants, please click here. You can purchase Dune Dollars online here, stop into the office to purchase them in person, or pick up plastic, refillable and customizable cards at Tri-Cities Historical Museum, Borr's Shoes, and LMCU on Jackson.
| | The Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting | |
It’s time to celebrate excellence in our community! Nominations are now open for the Chamber Excellence Awards, which will be presented at our Chamber Annual Celebration on Thursday, April 30, 2026, from 5:30-9:00pm at Spring Lake Country Club.
This is your chance to shine a spotlight on the organizations that inspire us, drive innovation, and strengthen Grand Haven, Spring Lake, and Ferrysburg.
We will honor outstanding achievements across four categories:
-
Mission in Action Award - recognizing non‑profits that demonstrate extraordinary impact and service.
-
Entrepreneurial Excellence Award - celebrating small businesses (less than 30 employeese) that embody innovation, resilience, and growth.
-
Strategic Success Award - honoring medium‑sized businesses (31-150 employees) that balance growth, community impact, and leadership.
-
Business Innovator Award - spotlighting large businesses (over 150 employees) driving transformation and setting new standards.
Important Notes:
-
All nominees must be current Chamber members in good standing.
-
Nominations close on Friday, February 27, 2026.
Help us recognize the leaders who are shaping our region’s future. Your nominations ensure that the businesses and organizations making a difference get the recognition they deserve.
| | Ambassador of the Year Recipient | | |
"Jennifer embodies everything we value in the Ambassadors Council and across our Chamber community," says Mark Allen, President and CEO of The Chamber. "Her enthusiasm and optimism inspires others to engage and connect with one another and work together to support businesses and the community."
To read more about Jennifer Johnson and the Chamber Ambassador of the Year award, click here.
| | |
Learn more about upcoming events by visiting our events calendar.
Curious about event sponsorship opportunities? Contact Heather Solomon by email or by calling 616.842.4910.
| | We would like to recognize our Premier Partners | | |
Our office is open M-F 9AM - 4PM,
call at 616.842.4910, or email a staff member directly.
We look forward to hearing from you!
| | |
Would you like to advertise in our eNews?
Contact Director of Marketing & Communications, Megan Tobin.
| | | | |
