Description

Economic Development In Your Place Fall Conference is when MEDA takes its education on the road for learning, networking, and touring in communities around the state.

Agenda

View a full schedule of sessions, speakers, and topics.

Agenda Snapshot

Welcome and Opening Remarks
Amy Shamroe, Mayor, City of Traverse City

Aligning State Priorities for a Lasting Impact in Your Region 
Panelists will share insights on current initiatives, collaborative opportunities, and how state-level policies empower local communities to work together toward sustainable growth.
Panelists: Representatives, Michigan’s Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity

Community Coordination of Shared Water and Sanitary Sewer Infrastructure 
Explore the range of Michigan Act 425 Agreements for infrastructure expansion across jurisdictional lines in use, analyze patterns within Opportunity Zones, and understand the implications for economic development.
Robert Carson, AICP, Regional Director of Community Development, Networks Northwest
Zach Vega, AICP, Community Planner, Networks Northwest

The Economic Impact of Health Care and the Michigan Impact of OBBBA
There is a powerful intersection between health care and economic development. Public health, mental health, workforce wellness, and health care infrastructure investments drive business attraction, talent retention, and long-term prosperity. Gain insight into leveraging health and hospital system resources.
Adam Carlson, Senior Vice President, Advocacy, Michigan Health and Hospital Association
Jim Lee, Senior Vice President, Data Policy & Analytics, Michigan Health and Hospital Association

Lunch/Membership Meeting

Guiding a Successful and Vibrant Environment for Small Businesses
Get the latest insights into Michigan’s small business climate and navigating challenges such as workforce recruitment and retention, securing funding for innovation, integrating AI into operations, managing energy expenses, overseeing remote teams, and complying with earned sick time regulations
Moderator: Kelli Saunders, Vice President of Policy and Engagement, Small Business Association of Michigan; Panelists: Michael DeBruyn, President, Great Lakes Stainless; Russ Knopp, Owner, Comfort Keepers; Courtney Lorenz, Founder & Idealist, Cultured Kombucha

Blue Tech at the Water’s Edge: The Freshwater Research & Innovation Center at Discovery Pier
Traverse City is emerging as a Great Lakes hub for the “blue economy” with the new Freshwater Research & Innovation Center (FRIC) at Discovery Pier. This facility brings together research, education, and entrepreneurship to accelerate freshwater technologies and connect innovators with resources for global impact.
Moderator: Nick Posavetz, Vice President, Plante Moran Realpoint; Panelists: Warren Call, President and CEO, Traverse Connect; Matt McDonough, Chief Executive Officer, Discovery Center and Pier; Jason Slade, Vice President for Strategic Initiatives, Northwestern Michigan College; Craig Wesley, Executive Director, 20Fathoms

Activities

There will be an Evening Reception on the 29th at a downtown brewery. Location and details forthcoming.

Location and Hotel Reservations

Delamar Hotel
615 E. Front St.
Traverse City, MI 49686

Reservations for the event will be made by individual attendees directly with Reservations at 231-947-3700 and by identifying as an attendee of the MEDA Fall Conference. Reserve by October 6th for a rate of $129++/night. Hotel room rates are subject to MI occupancy/sales tax of 11% (subject to change) and a daily service charge of $12.00. Taxes are subject to change without notice. Rates quoted are for single/double occupancy. There is an additional person charge of $85 per person, per night for triple/quad occupancy. Maximum occupancy is four guests.

Thank You Sponsors

Event Sponsor

The DTE Energy Efficiency Program for Business is designed to help organizations make smarter energy choices that support both financial savings and environmental responsibility. By encouraging practical upgrades—such as high-efficiency lighting, HVAC systems, and energy management technologies—the program helps reduce energy waste and operating costs. It also offers a variety of rebates and incentives to make these improvements more attainable. Whether you're just beginning to explore energy-saving opportunities or looking to expand your efforts, the program provides the guidance and resources to help you take the next step with confidence. Explore how your business can benefit—visit our website or contact us today to get started.
Website: dteenergy.com/business
Phone: 855-748-2525
Email: saveenergy@dteenergy.com

Reception Sponsor

Since 2021, Double Haul Solutions (DHS) has been a trusted partner for communities, organizations, and teams striving to overcome challenges and achieve meaningful outcomes. At the core of our approach is the Double Haul Network, which allows us to design custom project teams that align with the specific needs of each client. The network includes a diverse roster of experts: community builders, human resources and labor relations specialists, policy advisors, project managers, engagement strategists, planning and economic development professionals, financial consultants, and more. This flexible approach ensures that no matter the goal, the right skill sets are always within reach. At DHS, we’re about more than solving problems—we’re about building lasting relationships with leaders who share our passion for community progress. Like the purposeful motion of a double haul cast, we help our clients reach further and achieve their goals with precision and impact. Together, let’s create real and lasting change. Contact: Nate Geinzer, Founder/CEO, Double Haul Solutions, PH: 248-207-5293.

Sponsor this Event

View Sponsorship Package Options

Contact Cassandra at cjorae@medaweb.org with any questions or to sponsor.

Our Commitment

MEDA is committed to making our event accessible to all attendees. If you require any accommodations to fully participate, please contact Catie at catie@medaweb.org or 517-241-0011 at least 5 days before the event. There is also an option to list your dietary restrictions on the registration form.