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Our 2025 Impact Report Is Here!
The 2025 Impact Report showcases the Chamber’s work in driving business growth, strengthening community connections, and supporting our local economy.
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Stay Informed - Election 2026
Your Chamber is keeping an eye on the upcoming election. As a community member, we encourage you to stay informed using official state resources, and we will continue to share updates as more information becomes available.
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Your Voice Matters!
As the leading voice of Manistee County’s business community, the Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to advocating for policies that strengthen our economy, support workforce development, and foster a competitive business environment.
If you or your organization are facing a legislative or regulatory challenge that affects your operations, we want to hear from you. Please use this form to request the Chamber’s support, engagement, or action on local, state, or federal policy matters.
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Welcome to the Team!
Please join us in welcoming Kaylie Jensen as our new Engagement Specialist!
In this role, Kaylie will be building relationships with our investors and supporting the businesses that make Manistee County thrive. If you see her out and about, be sure to say hello and give her a warm welcome.
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Help us Congratulate!
Please join us in congratulating Nicole Kaminski on her transition from Program Specialist to Operations Manager!
In her new role, Nicole will help ensure the Chamber’s programs, events, and day-to-day operations run smoothly while continuing to support our investors and community.
| | Economic Development Investor Spotlight: City of Manistee | | |
The City of Manistee, the largest community in Manistee County, is a vibrant hub for investment, opportunity, and growth. From its historic downtown to its industrial park and strong infrastructure, the city provides the foundation for businesses to thrive and residents to enjoy a high quality of life.
Proactive economic development is a priority for Manistee. The City focuses on intentional growth that benefits all residents, supporting projects that strengthen the tax base, improve infrastructure, and address community needs, such as affordable housing.
“From a local leadership perspective, economic development work is especially important as communities like ours navigate real challenges, meeting the need for affordable housing, addressing aging infrastructure, and maintaining a strong tax base, while also preserving the character that makes Manistee special.”
- Bill Gambill, City of Manistee, City Manager
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Manistee Area Leadership Program: Tribal Day
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During Tribal Day, participants met with leadership and staff to learn about Tribal history, governance, and the services that support the community, including Tribal Courts, Public Safety, and Commerce.
The group also visited the Little River Casino Resort, receiving a tour and presentation on Casino operations and involvement in the community and the group then toured Casman Academy, a makeup tour from the rescheduling of Education Day, followed by a public speaking presentation and time dedicated to advancing their class project.
A special thank-you to our program sponsors, Munson Healthcare Manistee Hospital, Filer Credit Union, West Shore Community College, our power hour sponsor, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, and our Roger Vasquez sponsor Republic Services, for their continued support of the Manistee Area Leadership Program!
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Facade Grant Program
Own a property in the Manistee Downtown District? Apply for a Manistee DDA Façade Grant, which helps fund exterior renovations and restorations. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis - any time is a great time to enhance your downtown property!
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Match on Main Grant Program
The Manistee Downtown Development Authority (DDA) is now accepting local business applications for the Match on Main Grant Program, which provides up to $25,000 in reimbursement funding to small businesses in traditional downtown districts. Businesses interested in applying or learning more should contact the Manistee DDA at director@manisteedowntown.com.
Eligibility requirements:
- Located within the Manistee DDA boundaries
- Operate from a physical storefront with face-to-face sales of products or services
- Have site control (or be able to obtain it prior to application submission)
- Be a Michigan-headquartered for-profit or nonprofit business
- Provide the required 10% cash match
Eligible project expenses may include:
- Technical assistance and design services
- Interior building renovations
- Permanent or semi-permanent outdoor space activation
- Marketing, technology upgrades, point-of-sale systems, or operational improvements
- Inventory purchases
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State of the Community -
April 24, 2026
Join us for this year’s State of the Community on Friday, April 24, 2026, at Little River Casino Resort for a collaborative morning centered on the priorities shaping Manistee County.
This event will bring together local business leaders, public officials, educators, healthcare professionals, and community stakeholders for breakfast, networking, and a series of panel discussions focused on the issues impacting Manistee County.
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Active Shooter Response Training - April 30, 2026
The Manistee Area Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Manistee County Sheriff’s office, is offering a FREE Community Active Shooter Preparedness Course to help individuals and businesses learn how to respond during an active shooter situation.
Date: Thursday, April 30, 2026
Location: WSCC - Manistee Downtown Education Center; Classroom B, 400 River Street, Manistee, MI
Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
*Registration may be limited
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The Art of Giving Great Service
Join this hands-on workshop with ZingTrain to learn practical tools you can use right away, from supporting your team to strengthening everyday service. Connect with others across the community and walk away with ideas you can put into action.
Date: Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Location: West Shore Community College - Main Campus, 3014 N Stiles Rd, Scottville, MI
Time: 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM
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Interested in Sponsorship?
Explore our 2026 sponsorship opportunities, designed to boost your visibility while supporting the Manistee business community.
Opportunities available for:
- Manistee Area Leadership Program
- Annual Golf Outing
- Chamber UnTapped
- Ladies Nine & Wine
- Manistee National Forest Festival
Reach out to Nicole at Operations@ManisteeChamber.com for more information.
| | Did You Know Your Chamber Can Save You Money? | | |
Check out our Investor Benefits Packet, designed to support you and your business.
This packet highlights exclusive services, programs, and cost-saving opportunities available through trusted providers and their local partner agents, including:
- Auto-Owners Insurance programs offered through local, independent agents
- Accident Fund Workers’ Compensation solutions provided by authorized community agents
- OEO Energy Solutions
- BCN Services
- Michigan Chamber of Commerce
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