Development Opportunities

& Trends for 2024

February 20, 2024 | 7:30 - 9:00 a.m.



Frederik Meijer Gardens

1000 E. Beltline Ave NE

Grand Rapids, MI 49525

Place matters in Greater Grand Rapids. From natural amenities and vibrant events to a low cost of living, Greater Grand Rapids offers residents and businesses alike a place to call home. Investments in placemaking, site readiness, and infrastructure are necessary as we strive to retain, grow, and attract new industries, businesses, and talent.

Join us for an update on current placemaking initiatives at The Right Place from President & CEO, Randy Thelen, followed by an expert panel discussion on the region’s development opportunities and trends for 2024.

Meet our Panelists:

Rachel Michaud | President & COO, Gillespie Group

President and COO of Gillespie Group, Rachel focuses on the strategic growth and elevation of overall leadership practices within the organization. An eye to the future, she oversees the executive team with a key focus on client, partner and community stakeholder relationships. A member of the Gillespie Group team for over 25 years, Rachel is instrumental in the success of the company in all aspects from business development to operational management. Recognized in 2022 as a Notable Woman in Construction, Design and Architecture in CRAIN’S Detroit Business publication, Rachel’s impact through strategic planning and project execution initiatives continue to enhance Gillespie’s continued success. 

Ryan Talbot | Owner, Talbot Development

Ryan Talbot is a Michigan native, University of Michigan and University of Texas Alum, and former product developer at Apple. He pivoted from tech to real estate development six years ago when joining a family member’s development company in Portland, OR and recently moved back to Michigan to start his own multifamily development firm. He is under construction on The Current, a 72 unit urban infill project in Creston and is planning future projects in Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor. 

Ben Smith | Partner, Heritage Development

Ben Smith is a Partner with Heritage Development Partners (HDP), a real estate development and investment firm focused on unique multifamily and mixed-use projects in select markets. In this role, Ben focuses on maintaining and growing debt and equity relationships, sourcing new investments, and managing the strategic growth of the company.  

Thank you to our Sponsor!