NLEA Strategic Planning Update

The NLEA completed the second stage of our strategic planning process last week by hosting community feedback sessions in Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, and Emmet Counties. The sessions began with a brief overview of the NLEA and local economic trends, then transitioned to facilitated group feedback exercises. The strategic planning process kicked off in May at the 2024 Northern Lakes Economic Symposium with an early impressions survey and will continue over the coming months with additional stakeholder sessions, interviews, and public survey. We'll share a summary of what we're hearing so far in next month's newsletter so stay tuned!

The NLEA strategic planning efforts have been generously supported by the Fund for the Community of the Petoskey-Harbor Springs Area Community Foundation and the Cheboygan County Community Foundation.

NLEA Celebrates Staff Work Anniversaries This Month!

The NLEA is excited to celebrate two members of the team this month on their 10th and 3rd year work anniversaries! Thank you Jessica and Sam for all you do to support our region's businesses and communities!

Payton Heins on 9&10 News

NLEA President, Payton Heins, was recently invited on 9 & 10 News' Good Day Northern Michigan show to talk about NLEA's role in economic development and the success of our recent Economic Symposium and Showcase.

NLEA Supports Community Education

In addition to the NLEA's strategic planning community sessions this month, staff have been busy meeting with community leaders across the region, highlighting important economic trends and sharing NLEA project updates.

NLEA President Payton Heins addressed the Tip of the Mitt chapter of the Service Corp of Retired Executives (SCORE), discussing the role of the NLEA in supporting local businesses and top issues we're hearing about from business leaders across the region.
Payton Heins and Strategic Initiatives Manager Sam Bailey were invited to present at a recent Boyne City Commission meeting on key economic and demographic trends impacting talent and housing.
Sam Bailey led an economic development training for Leadership Cheboygan, a leadership development program through the Cheboygan Area Chamber of Commerce, as part of their Economy Day. Bailey defined economic development, highlighted recent NLEA projects in the county, and examined economic and demographic trends impacting the county.
Economic Development Manager Chris Bauer was invited to share updates on NLEA projects at a recent Cheboygan City Council meeting, including NLEA's support to businesses in pursuing port infrastructure grant opportunities.

"Let's Grow Michigan" National Poll Final Report

"Let's Grow Michigan" released their National Poll Final Report. The report highlights the results of a survey of 6,000 young people (median age of 23) who were asked what's most important to them in deciding where to live. Top factors included housing affordability, safety, quality of healthcare, walkability, and access to nature and outdoor activities.