2024 ANNUAL REPORT
MAJOR INVESTORS WHO WE ARE
PIVOTAL PARTNERS
COMMUNITY LEADERS
IGNITE INVESTORS
INFLUENCE INVESTORS
PINNACLE HOSPITALITY
IMPACT INVESTORS
ANDREWS UNIVERSITY
B&L INFORMATION SYSTEMS, INC.
BOSS SERVICES
BIGGBY COFFEE OF BERRIEN SPRINGS
BRADLEY COMPANY
BREAD+BAR
BUTZEL ATTORNEYS & COUNSELORS
CENTSIBLE
HEATING & AIR
CONDITIONING
COLSON GROUP
FLAGSTAR BANK
FLAUGH INSURANCE AGENCY
COLOMA / ST. JOSEPH KOA HOLIDAY
HONOR CREDIT UNION
INDIANA MICHIGAN POWER
LAKE MICHIGAN COLLEGE
THE LUMBER JAX
MICHIGAN GAS UTILITIES
MOERSCH HOSPITALITY GROUP
PRI MAR PETROLEUM, INC.
SILVER BEACH PIZZA
SPECIAL-LITE
STARKS FAMILY FUNERAL HOME
SOUTH SHORE
HEALTH & RACQUET CLUB
VAIL RUBBER WORKS, INC.
We are the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, a 501(c)6 non-profit, business advocacy and collectiveimpact organization proudly serving Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren counties. Established in 1954, we have been the trusted voice of the region’s business community for over seventy years.
What We Do: As the largest chamber in the region, we leverage our extensive network to strengthen regional assets, advocate for regional priorities, and cultivate an economic ecosystem that prepares our region for future opportunities. We do this by employing what we call our Ecosystem Approach, which focuses on the following four pillars of service:
• Leadership Development
• Business Development
• Economic Development
• Community Development
Our Mission: To leverage every available resource within our network for the advancement of our members and the betterment of all who live and work in our community.
Our Vision: To propel Southwest Michigan to national prominence as a vibrant, regional destination where business thrives, talent resides, and quality of life is second to none.
Our Organization:
A WORD FROM OUR PRESIDENT
Valued Member,
2024 was a transformative year for the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, marked by growth, collaboration, and impact. While I’m proud of all we’ve accomplished, none of it would have been possible without the generous support of our members, investors, and community partners. To that end, I hope you are as inspired as I am by the progress reflected in the pages ahead. After all, it is a testament to what we can achieve when we work together.
Arthur A. Havlicek President & CEO
OUR STAFF
CASSANDRA ADAMS
ARTHUR HAVLICEK President & CEO
SARAH SPOONHOLTZ Director of Membership & Events
JASMINE HANSEN
Membership Engagement Manager
MOLLY MCFADDEN Resource Development Manager
Finance & Administration Manager ALAIN PICHOT
Marketing Manager
NANCY KIERNAN
Bridgman CGA Director
OUR BOARD OF DIRECTORS
BRUCE PIEKARSKI TREASURER
Horizon Bank
ZACK EAST
United Way of Southwest Michigan
GRETA PEARSONBARRONS Pearson Construction Company, Inc.
DAVID COSTAS SECRETARY Silver Beach Pizza
DR. JIM GENDERNALIK
Family Physicians of St. Joseph, P.C.
SOROYA PIERREVANARTSEN
Corewell Health Foundation
MARK LEMOINE BOARD CHAIR
Coloma / St. Joseph KOA Holiday
ROBERT “BOB” CLARK Lake Charter Township
MONA LIVINGSTON
Indiana Michigan Power
ELEANOR REECE Whirlpool Corporation
OLIVIA STARKS VICE-CHAIR
Starks Family Funeral Homes
MATT DERBY Butzel Attorneys and Counselors
THOMAS NORBEY
A Visible Change Painting Co.
RON SORCE Four Winds Casinos
WELCOME NEW MEMBERS
We are thrilled to welcome 51 new members to the largest and most influential network of businesses and professionals in Southwest Michigan. We look forward to supporting their needs, amplifying their voices, and working on their behalf to drive economic growth throughout the region.
BE A PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER, BECOME A MEMBER TODAY!
Berrien Springs Bridgman
Berrien Springs
Watervliet
ROCK HOSPITALITY— COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT
BUSINESS RECOGNITION BREAKFAST
We celebrated our 70th anniversary at our 2024 Business Recognition Breakfast. With over 630 in attendance, the event represented not only the largest annual meeting in over 20 years, but also ranked among the largest gatherings in the history of the organization.
SIGNATURE EVENTS
Our Signature Events are more than gatherings— they’re catalysts for growth, collaboration, and impact. From celebrating success to fostering meaningful connections, these events energize our business community and strengthen Southwest Michigan’s economy.
SPONSOR ONE OF OUR EVENTS, REACH OUT TO US TODAY!
Best New Business Base Bowls & Company
Small Business of the Year
Peat’s Cider Social
Non-Profit of Excellence
LOGAN Autism Learning Center
Economic Impact
Lane Automotive
Rising Star
Justin “ Juice” Koehneke, Watermark Brewing Company
Pat Moody Award
Jim “Jimbo” Shelton, Shelton’s Farm Market
2024 EVENT SPONSORS:
Title:
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ANNUAL WINE AND NINE GOLF OUTIING
We held our second Annual Wine and Nine Golf Outing at Pipestone Creek Golf Course last June. This fun, female-focused event stands as the only golf outing of its kind in our region. Meant to provide an unintimidating atmosphere, the sold-out event saw over 70 female professionals attend and take advantage of complimentary lessons, networking, golf, and—of course—wine!
2024 EVENT SPONSORS:
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Wine Sponsors:
Presenting:
ANNUAL GOLF OUTING
Another sold-out success was our 64th Annual Chamber Golf Outing at Lake Michigan Hills Golf Club. Nearly 200 members were on hand to enjoy 18 holes at one of Southwest Michigan’s finest courses—and were able to enjoy some food, fun, and fellowship at the 19th Hole After Party.
2024 EVENT SPONSORS:
Title Sponsor:
Presenting:
Flag Pin Sponsor:
Golf Cart Sponsor:
Golf Clinic Sponsor:
Hole Sponsors:
Event Sponsors:
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CELEBRATORY EVENTS
Whether launching a new business, marking an anniversary, or celebrating a major achievement, we take pride in supporting our members every step of the way. In the past year, we were honored to be part of 33 ribbon cuttings, 2 groundbreaking ceremonies, and 2 grand openings across our region. Join us in honoring their milestones and recognizing their contributions to a thriving local economy.
GROUND BREAKINGS
2 KINGS. 2 CITIES. TOGETHER. Benton Harbor/St. Joseph
SURF INTERNET Bridgman
GRAND OPENINGS
COREWELL HEALTH PRIMARY CARE Bridgman
COREWELL HEALTH PRIMARY CARE Dowagiac
RIBBON CUTTINGS
2 KINGS. 2 CITIES. TOGETHER. Unveiling—Benton Harbor/St. Joseph
AIRA FITNESS Opening—Stevensville
BABE’S RIVERFRONT BAR & GRILL Renovation—Benton Harbor
BERRIEN TALENT COLLABORATIVE Milestone—Benton Harbor
BRIDGMAN AMERICAN LEGION Renovation—Bridgman
(CASA) COURT APPOINTED SPECIAL ADVOCATES Opening—Benton Harbor
CASEY’S GENERAL STORE
Opening—Berrien Springs
COLOMA/ST. JOSEPH KOA HOLIDAY
Renovation—Benton Harbor
COUNTRYSIDE ACADEMY ELEMENTARY
Opening—Benton Harbor
D’AGOSTINOS NAVAJO BAR & GRILLE
Renovation—Bridgman
DOROTHY & AL’S FARM MARKET
VILLWOCKS OUTDOOR LIVING
Opening—Berrien Springs
FLOWERS EARLY LEARNING CENTER
Opening—Millburg
FOREVER CLEAN SOAP WORKS
Milestone—St. Joseph
HANNAPEL
Opening—Bridgman
HEALTH ELEVATED
Opening—St. Joseph
LAKE TIME BREWING & SPIRITS
Opening—Bridgman
LIFEPLAN
Opening—Benton Harbor
LINCOLN TOWNSHIP PUBLIC LIBRARY
Renovation—Stevensville
“LITTLE LIBRARY”
Opening—Stevensville
LOGAN CENTER AT LAKE MICHIGAN COLLEGE
Opening—Benton Harbor
MONTE PACKAGE COMPANY
Expansion—Riverside
NEW HEIGHTS LAUNDRY HUB
Opening—Benton Heights
PEAT’S CIDER SOCIAL
Unveiling—Stevensville
REFINED BARBER COMPANY
Opening—Berrien Springs
SOUTH SHORE HEALTH & RACQUET CLUB
Expansion—St. Joseph
SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN DERMATOLOGY
Opening—St. Joseph
SURF INTERNET
Opening—Bridgman
THE AESTHETICS LOUNGE & SPA
Milestone—St. Joseph
THE BOARDWALK
Opening—Benton Harbor
THE GARAGE ON FERRY STREET
Renovation—Berrien Springs
THE LAB. MARTIAL ARTS AND FITNESS
Opening—Stevensville
THE PILLAR CENTER
Opening—Benton Harbor
TOTH PARK PLAYGROUND
Renovation—Bridgman
ADVOCACY
Our advocacy efforts help keep members and elected officials informed of issues affecting the Southwest Michigan business community. From local CEO Council meetings to time spent at the Capitol, we are working tirelessly to ensure the “Voice for Business” in Southwest Michigan is heard loud and clear.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
CEO Council
We convened elected leaders and community stakeholders from across the region on a monthly-basis for our Chief Elected Official (CEO) Council meetings. By providing a consistent platform for peer-to-peer collaboration and dialogue between key decisionmakers, we help shape strategies that drive regional economic growth and business success.
Capitol Trips
Engaging directly with lawmakers is critical to ensuring the voice of Southwest Michigan businesses is heard. We made several trips to the Capitol throughout the year, including a trip with the Leadership Accelerator cohort. These visits provide invaluable opportunities to influence policy decisions that impact our region’s economic landscape.
Michigan Chamber
Chamber President & CEO Arthur Havlicek and Board Member Eleanor Reece had the privilege of representing Southwest Michigan on the Michigan Chamber Board of Directors. Through their leadership and engagement, Southwest Michigan’s perspective was effectively represented in statewide policy decisions.
‘‘The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber of Commerce hosts some of the most insightful workshops and seminars. The knowledge and skills we’ve gained through these events have helped us improve our practices and deliver value for taxpayers.” - Michelle Heit, New Buffalo Township Supervisor
ESTA and Tip Credit Reform
In 2024, Michigan’s Supreme Court rulings on the Earned Sick Time Act (ESTA) and the elimination of the “Tip Credit” posed significant risks to businesses and workers. We responded by organizing roundtables, information sessions, and one-on-one meetings to educate stakeholders and advocate for legislative solutions. We’re hopeful our efforts, along with those of our allies statewide, provided the drumbeat necessary to catalyze reforms and ensure a more balanced policy approach.
Data Center Legislation
We successfully advocated for legislation extending sales and use tax exemptions for data centers until 2050. Sponsored by Rep. Joey Andrews, this policy not only strengthens Michigan’s value proposition for high-tech industries, it gives Southwest Michigan—which boasts abundant freshwater resources and reliable nuclear energy—an even bigger competitive advantage against regions across the country.
‘‘
Collaborating with the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber has been instrumental in advancing our region. Their leadership in advocating for workforce development, economic growth, and the restart of the Palisades Nuclear Plant has been crucial in strengthening and revitalizing Southwest Michigan, and I’m proud to have worked alongside them to achieve these critical milestones.”
– State Representative Joey Andrews
Berrien Talent Collaborative
We helped secure a $500,000 state grant for the Berrien Talent Collaborative, a youth apprenticeship program developed in partnership with Lake Michigan College, Berrien RESA, and the Greater Niles Chamber. This funding, obtained with the help of Rep. Joey Andrews, supports Michigan’s first county-wide youth apprenticeship model, advancing workforce development and creating new career pathways for local students.
Palisades Nuclear Power Plant
We have been a vocal advocate for the historic restart of the Palisades Nuclear Power Plant. Working closely with Holtec International through the Nuclear Regulatory Commission’s public engagement process, we’ve highlighted the plant’s economic impact on our region and its crucial role in helping Michigan meet its clean energy goals. Special thanks to Congressman Bill Huizenga, Sen. Aric Nesbitt, and Rep. Joey Andrews for their vital support in bringing this plant back online.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Our leadership development initiatives empower professionals of all ages and career stages with the skills, connections, and knowledge needed to drive our region forward. By cultivating a strong pipeline of business and community leaders, we help ensure a vibrant and prosperous future for Southwest Michigan.
LEADERSHIP ACCELERATOR
Leadership Accelerator, the region’s premier leadership development program, is designed to engage, empower, and develop the next generation of leaders in Michigan’s Great Southwest. During this intensive seven-month curriculum, a diverse cohort of current and emerging leaders undergo a transformational learning experience and gain access to the skills, knowledge, and networks necessary to excel in their roles, lead their organizations, and make a lasting impact on our community.
The program is run in partnership with Lake Michigan College, an organization that inherently understands that prosperity for our community is dependent on visionary and skilled leaders who are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of tomorrow. Together, with support from the Leadership Advisory Council, we work to deliver holistic leadership programming focused on personal evolution, professional development, and community engagement.
Please join us in congratulating the 28 emerging leaders who graduated as part of our 2024 Leadership Accelerator Cohort.
In partnership with:
‘‘
Leadership Accelerator highlighted the critical importance of effective leadership in our community. I’m leaving the program not only with new tools to apply in my role but also with a deeper commitment to contributing to our region’s growth and success.”Trevor Carlson, Prairie Real Estate Group
2024 GRADUATES
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT
Our leadership development initiatives empower professionals of all ages and career stages with the skills, connections, and knowledge needed to drive our region forward. By cultivating a strong pipeline of business and community leaders, we help ensure a vibrant and prosperous future for Southwest Michigan.
NEXTGEN YOUNG PROFESSIONALS
NextGen Young Professionals helps emerging leaders build a strong professional network and forge connections that may lead to new business collaborations, mentorship opportunities, or even future career advancements. Through networking events, workshops, community service opportunities and seminars, we create a supportive environment for personal and career growth for individuals between the ages of 21 and 40.
In 2024, NextGen continued to build momentum, expanding its reach and impact through dynamic programming, community engagement, and strategic partnerships. With a strong focus on fostering young professionals and entrepreneurship, we introduced new initiatives, strengthened existing programs, and deepened our commitment to the community.
2024 SPONSORS:
‘‘ The NextGen Young Professionals Program has been transformative for my career. From day one, I felt welcomed into a dynamic community of ambitious individuals with similar goals and aspirations. If you’re a young professional eager to unlock your potential and thrive in your career, I highly recommend this program!” - Grayson Ege, Mid-West Family Southwest Michigan
Networking Events:
• Kingfisher Cocktails & Tacos, St. Joseph
• Lazy Ballerina, St. Joseph
• Watermark Brewing Company, Stevensville
• Pipestone Indoor, Benton Harbor
• KitchenAid Senior PGA, Benton Harbor
• Coloma/St. Joseph KOA Holiday, Benton Harbor
• Sturgis Bank and Trust, St. Joseph
• The Swab Agency at Weko Beach House, Bridgman
• South Shore Health & Racquet Club, St. Joseph
• Peat’s Cider Social, Stevensville
Community Service Events:
• Downtown Benton Harbor Clean up with Prairie Real Estate Group
• Rake-a-Difference with United Way of Southwest Michigan
• Career Day with the Boys and Girls Club of Southwest Michigan
NextGen Board of Directors
GRETA PEARSON-BARRONS
Chair—Pearson Construction
AMBER HAACK
Vice-Chair—Horizon Bank
CHELSEA BRANDT
Treasurer—Horizon Bank
MEL DALY
Events—Peat’s Cider Social
AVERY BACKUS
Events—Edgewater Automation
BRITTANY LEE
Marketing—Corewell Health
SARAH LANCASTER
South Shore Health and Racquet Club
FORREST AVERY Venanpri Group
TREVOR CARLSON
Prairie Real Estate Group
GABI HAVLICEK
Berecz & Associates, PLC
GILLIAN WRIGHT
Honor Credit Union
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Our business development initiatives equip entrepreneurs and established companies with the tools, connections, and strategic support needed to thrive in a competitive marketplace. Through tailored resources and expert guidance, we help businesses innovate, expand, and grow.
HYPE PITCH COMPETITION
Southwest Michigan’s brightest entrepreneurial talent gathered at the Watermark Solarium for the debut of HYPE—Highlighting Young Professional Excellence. Hosted in partnership with the Emerge Innovation Hub, this dynamic event provided a unique platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to present their ideas and compete for meaningful cash prizes and in-kind support to launch or grow their businesses.
The evening began with an engaging panel discussion featuring successful young entrepreneurs, including:
• Aiyenede Akhigbe (Sticky Spoons Jam, LLC)
• Chris Mason (Watermark Brewing Company)
• Stephanie Ott Williams (Base Bowls & Company)
• Dustin Lester (Pipestone Indoor Country Club and Pipestone Creek Golf Course)
These panelists shared their entrepreneurial journeys, offered valuable insights, and later served as judges for the pitch competition.
The competition itself featured seven contestants, with awards going to the top three, plus a special Crowd Favorite Award chosen by live audience voting. The winners are depicted to the right. Additional contestants included Ezekiel-Wheels of Berrien Springs, Bare Naked Salts and Soaps of Niles, and Paige Solutions, LLC of St. Joseph.
With over $60,000 in cash and in-kind prizes awarded, HYPE is laying the groundwork for a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region. We hope the event will continue to strengthen Southwest Michigan’s reputation as a place where young entrepreneurs can find the financial backing, mentorship, and community support needed to thrive.
Title:
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2024 EVENT SPONSORS:
Participating:
In Kind Sponsors:
Media Partners:
1ST PLACE ($15,000):
Zo’s Mini Donuts Zoey & Lydia Heyn Sawyer
2ND PLACE ($10,000): Willowbrook Farms Vanessa Frias Cassopolis
‘‘We are so proud of our contestants for their hard work, creativity, and passion— they truly embody what this event is all about. Together, we’ve ignited a spark that will continue to inspire and shape the future of our business community.” -
Jasmine Hansen, Member Engagement Manager and Program Lead
for HYPE In partnership with:
3RD PLACE ($5,000):
Muddy Puddles Preschool Angela & Ricky Rhodes Stevensville
FAVORITE ($2,500)
Hyde’s Lifestyle Taekwondo
James Hyde St. Joseph
CROWD
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Our community development initiatives focus on removing obstacles that hinder economic growth and regional prosperity. Through strategic partnerships and targeted initiatives, we’re creating the conditions necessary for businesses to thrive, talent to reside, and quality of life to remain second to none.
HOUSING
A lack of affordable, accessible housing not only limits our region’s ability to attract and retain talent but also stifles economic development. We have actively engaged on behalf of our members by advocating for policy reforms, participating in regional planning efforts, and fostering alignment among stakeholders in an effort to drive meaningful solutions.
Local Zoning and Ordinance Reform
We have made it a priority to advocate for more flexibility in zoning and ordinance policies at the local level as a means to simplify the housing development process, drive regional growth, and meet the increasing demand for affordable, accessible options. These efforts are key to fostering a thriving housing market that supports economic development and creates more opportunities for residents to live, work, and thrive in Southwest Michigan.
MSHDA Regional Housing Partnership
As a member of the Southwest Michigan Regional Housing Partnership (Region J), we have collaborated with regional stakeholders to develop a Regional Housing Action Plan. Covering Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, and Van Buren counties, the partnership formed in May and has since met regularly to establish workgroups, set regional priorities, and define strategies with key performance indicators to measure success. These workgroups focus on specific priority areas and meet frequently to develop goals and action plans.
TTWO-DAY SUMMIT
In December 2024, the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, in collaboration with the Southwestern Michigan Association of REALTORS®, hosted the “Escaping the Housing Trap” Summit at Corewell Health Lakeland. The two-day event featured Chuck Marohn, founder of Strong Towns, and focused on addressing the housing affordability and accessibility challenges facing Southwest Michigan. Based on Marohn’s book Escaping the Housing Trap: The Strong Towns Solution Housing Crisis, the summit provided
‘‘This summit gave us a unique opportunity to unite stakeholders from various sectors and work together on addressing immediate housing needs while laying the groundwork for long-term growth,” said Luke Jeffries, CEO of the Southwest Michigan Association of REALTORS® . ”The event successfully launched conversations that will drive future efforts to improve housing in the region.”
attendees with key insights into the tension between housing as both an investment and shelter, and how local change can help restore balance to the housing market.
Over 150 community leaders, developers, real estate professionals, elected officials, and concerned citizens joined us for the event, participating in collaborative workshops, discussions, and sessions on topics such as zoning
reform, incremental development, and eliminating parking minimums. By fostering alignment among diverse groups, the event sought to empower attendees to work together in building stronger, more resilient communities in Southwest Michigan.
Our work with Strong Towns isn’t over—stay tuned!
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Our community development initiatives focus on removing obstacles that hinder economic growth and regional prosperity. Through strategic partnerships and targeted initiatives, we’re creating the conditions necessary for businesses to thrive, talent to reside, and quality of life to remain second to none.
In partnership with Lake Michigan College, Berrien RESA, and the Greater Niles Chamber, we launched the Berrien Talent Collaborative —an employer-led initiative that connects high school students with education and job development resources through a registered apprenticeship program. As Michigan’s first county-wide apprenticeship effort, it earned a $500,000 state grant for its potential to scale statewide. Through this program, high school juniors and seniors gain hands-on industry training, earn school credit, receive wages, and develop in-demand skills, all while securing guaranteed employment with their sponsoring business after graduation. Visit www.berrientalent.org to learn more.
‘‘
We should be providing every possible resource to support job development. That is why I fought to include $500,000 for this collaborative project in this year’s budget.” - Rep. Joey Andrews
CHILDCARE
Flowers Early Learning: We played a key role in helping Tri-County Head Start evolve its business model and brand to better serve families across the region. Rebranded as Flowers Early Learning, the organization will now offer tuition-based childcare slots in addition to Head Start-eligible placements, increasing access for working families. The model change coincided with the acquisition of the Millburg Campus from Countryside Academy, creating the first permanent, purpose-built early childhood education facility in Tri-County Head Start’s 52-year history. This milestone was soon followed by a $50,000 grant from Carolyn’s Kids for playground improvements at the new center, which has the capacity to serve over 100 families in our community.
‘‘
The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber has been an invaluable partner as we navigated a historic transition for our organization. Their advocacy, promotion, and hands-on support—especially in securing and celebrating our new Millburg location— have strengthened our ability to serve families and work to expand access to high-quality early childhood education.” - Chanda Hillman, M.P.A., CEO/Executive Director of Flowers Early Learning
Tri-County Implementation Lead: Building on our success with Flowers Early Learning, we have been selected by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation to lead the Childcare Implementation Task Force for Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren. In this role, we will coordinate resources, strengthen cross-sector collaboration, track childcare data, and advocate for increased investment and policy improvements. This initiative aims to expand access for working families, address the region’s childcare shortage, and integrate early learning into economic development strategies to support long-term growth.
In partnership with:
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
For us, economic growth isn’t just about big projects— it’s about the steady, incremental improvements that enhance everyday life for businesses and residents alike. Whether supporting small business growth or fostering public-private collaboration, we are committed to driving sustainable development that benefits our entire region.
SUCCESS OF THE CGA MODEL
Our Chamber and Growth Alliance (CGA) model represents a community-driven, incremental approach to economic growth. Inspired by proven methods such as Economic Gardening® and the Main Street Approach™ framework, our CGAs focus their efforts on implementing small, strategic improvements that collectively drive long-term economic success.
Municipalities that invest in becoming a CGA Community also gain a dedicated professional assigned exclusively to that footprint, providing the increased capacity and expertise necessary to support businesses, attract investment, and maximize project potential.
In early 2024, we cemented a partnership with the City of Bridgman and Lake Charter Township, allowing us to hire Nancy Kiernan as the full-time Director of the Greater Bridgman Area Chamber and Growth Alliance (CGA). Since then, the Bridgman CGA has led or co-led multiple key initiatives to strengthen the local economy. Here are some highlights broken across the Main Street Model’s proven Four Point ApproachTM:
Economic Vitality
• Supporting 2 new business launches, 1 renovation, and 1 expansion
• Compiling a commercial property inventory
• Facilitating $2.5M in community funding applications
• Providing technical assistance to 20+ businesses
• Achieving Redevelopment Ready Community “Engaged” status for Bridgman
Design
• Updating kiosk wayfinding maps at the beach and downtown
• Partnering with the Corridor Improvement Authority to update welcome signage at Exit 16
Promotion
• Establishing a dedicated website—bridgmancga.org
• Publishing an updated Discover Bridgman brochure
• Supporting events like Makers’ Trail festival and Celebrate Bridgman
• Coordinating the Holiday Village event
Organization
• Doubling the size of the CGA Board of Directors
• Hosting multiple “Commerce & Conversations” events
• Awarding $1,000 in scholarships to local students
• Circulating Summer and Fall CGA newsletters
INTERNATIONAL VISITS
Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI):
We partnered with Andrews University to welcome over thirty Vietnamese entrepreneurs and CEOs to Southwest Michigan as part of their Global Executive Institute Program. Together, we explored solutions to global challenges like automation and population decline, strengthening connections and opening the door for future collaboration.
Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO):
We partnered with JETRO, Southwest Michigan First, Cornerstone Alliance, and several other economic development organizations to host over thirty Japanese entrepreneurs at LMC’s Hanson Tech Center, where we worked together to highlight the benefits of doing business in Southwest Michigan.
ORGANIZATION DEVELOPMENT
Last year, we proudly launched two new 501(c)3 entities under our organization’s umbrella in an effort to better serve our members and adapt to our region’s evolving needs. In doing so, we’ve laid the foundation for even greater impact—and we’re just getting started.
SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN REGIONAL CHAMBER FOUNDATION
The 501(c)3 Regional Chamber Foundation will play a vital role in funding the Regional Chamber’s four pillars of service and overall program of work, ensuring Southwest Michigan remains a great place to live, work, and raise a family for generations to come.
Mission: To EMPOWER the region’s business community through Leadership, Business, Economic, and Community Development.
Recognizing the importance of this work, communityminded investors like Corewell Health South Foundation, Frederick S. Upton Foundation, AEP Foundation, Sturgis Bank & Trust, and more have already stepped up to support our vision.
‘‘The Upton Foundation believes in the Chamber’s vital work to strengthen our region, as it closely aligns with our mission to enrich communities through growth, collaboration, and opportunity. We share a vision for a thriving Southwest Michigan and are proud to honor Frederick S. Upton’s legacy by supporting their efforts to drive lasting prosperity.”
- Carrie Vill, Frederick S. Upton Foundation
DISCOVER SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN
Discover Southwest Michigan is the region’s first and only 501(c)(3) organization focused exclusively on growing our population. Through data-driven marketing and personalized relocation services, Discover’s work will address impending demographic challenges and ensure the long-term vitality of our region.
Mission: To GROW the region’s population through talent attraction and relocation services.
Recognizing this innovative approach, Discover Southwest Michigan was awarded a $100,000 grant from the state of Michigan in October of 2024 to serve as a pilot program in the hopes of potentially scaling its innovative talent attraction approach statewide.
INVEST IN SOUTHWEST MICHIGAN’S FUTURE
We are dedicated to making Southwest Michigan one of the most vibrant, inclusive, and economically prosperous regions in the nation. Our progress, however, relies on the generosity of members and investors like you. Every contribution helps continue our momentum in shaping a brighter future for Southwest Michigan.
HELP SHAPE THE FUTURE. SUPPORT THE CHAMBER TODAY!
