Upcoming Events

2026 Economic Symposium

The 2026 Economic Symposium will take place on Friday, May 15^th at Boyne Mountain Resort from 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM. This year’s theme, “Made, Grown, and Built in Northern Michigan,” highlights the industries that power our regional economy — manufacturing, agriculture, and construction. The event brings together business leaders, policymakers, and community members from across the region to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping Northern Michigan’s future.

David Malpass, former President of the World Bank and U.S. Treasury Undersecretary for International Affairs, will serve as the keynote speaker. Malpass will share insights on macroeconomic trends and the role industries like manufacturing, construction, and agriculture play in the broader global economy — and what those trends mean for Northern Michigan.

The Symposium is an opportunity to be in the room with the leaders, innovators, and decision-makers shaping the future of our region. Consider reserving a full table for eight — tables are placed closer to the stage, making it a great way to bring your team and experience the event together. Secure your seats today and join the conversation on May 15^th.

There are still select sponsorship opportunities available. Contact Wes Sovis to learn more. 

We are grateful for the generous support of our sponsors, Consumers Energy, Enbridge, Great Lakes Energy, Networks Northwest, Baker College, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, ITC Holdings, Kilwins, Cunningham-Limp, Munson Healthcare, and Artemis Development.

Save the Date!

Save the date for Friday, June 5, and join us for Development Spotlight: Petoskey!

This event will shine a light on growth, investment, and development momentum in Petoskey and the surrounding area. Building on the strong engagement and collaborative energy from our 2025 Spotlight in East Jordan — which brought together local leaders, developers, business owners, and community partners — we’re excited to continue the conversation by highlighting current projects, emerging opportunities, and the vision shaping Petoskey’s future. 

Stay tuned for more details coming soon! 

We are grateful for the generous support of our sponsors, Consumers Energy and Michigan Office of Rural Prosperity.

NLEA in Action

Education and Policy

Sam Bailey Joins Good Day Northern Michigan to Discuss the Economic Symposium

Strategic Initiatives Manager, Sam Bailey, recently joined 9&10 New's Good Day Northern Michigan to discuss regional economic trends and the upcoming Economic Symposium.

Business Growth & Retention

Dave Kronberg and Wes Sovis Explore Year-Round Jobs in Northern Michigan's Craft Beverage Industry

NLEA staff Dave Kronberg and Wes Sovis recently toured Short’s Brewing Company’s Elk Rapids brewing and canning facility. Our team proactively conducts resource visits with companies to stay attuned to the most pressing challenges and opportunities facing businesses across diverse sectors. These visits allow us to immediately connect business leaders to critical opportunities that support their growth. If you'd like to consult with the NLEA team, contact Dave Kronberg.

We Can Help You Fund Your Next Project!

Grants and Incentives Assistance

The NLEA has a team of economic and community development professionals with experience in grant writing services and incentive assistance to support your next development project. Contact Jessica Lovay to see how we can help you!

Low-Interest Business Loan Assistance

We can help you explore your financing options through our partnerships with Great Lakes Energy (GLE) and Venture North. Reach out to Dave Kronberg to learn more about these programs and how you may qualify.

Great Lakes Energy Loan Programs

• 0% GLE USDA Loan (up to $1M)
• GLE Revolving Loan Fund (up to $250,000)

Venture North Loan Programs

• Express Loan ($5 - $25,000)
• New Business Micro Loan (up to $50,000)
• Existing Small Business Loan (up to $350,000)

In Case You Missed It

Consumers Energy Foundation to Award $50,000 for Three Small Towns in Put Your Town on the Map Competition

20Fathoms Hosts Startup Coaching in Traverse City and Virtually

Rehmann Expands Northern Michigan Presence

MDARD Grant Application Window Closing April 15

Two Businesses in the NLEA Region Awarded Small Business Grants

Michigan Veteran Entrepreneur Lab Hosts Pitch Competition

Learn More About NLEA Services

The NLEA is a nonprofit economic development organization serving Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, and Emmet Counties and has been helping businesses and communities succeed and grow since 1984. Whether you are a community looking for assistance with property redevelopment and grant management or a business looking for assistance to secure funding for new equipment or expansion, the NLEA is here to help you. Learn more about these and additional services below.

Meet Dave!

As your local resource, we're here to help your business succeed and grow -- with support for funding, site selection, local incentives, development, and data to back your project. Learn more below.

Meet Jessica!

We support communities in retaining and attracting year-round, family sustaining jobs through economic development training, local incentives, and infrastructure funding. Learn more below.

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CONTACT US

231.582.6482

info@thenlea.com

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