U.P. Perspectives

Perspective delivered by

Ashley Szczepanski

Director of Marketing, LSCP.

MARQUETTE COUNTY, MI- The Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP) Board of Directors have named the incoming CEO for the economic development organization. Christopher Germain, who is currently employed as a Senior Redevelopment Ready Communities (RRC) Planner with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) will start his role as CEO in the beginning of June 2022.

MARQUETTE COUNTY, MI- Lake Superior Community Partnership (LSCP) CEO Sarah Lucas has recently been appointed to State of Michigan’s newly established Office of Rural Development.

News from Sarah Lucas and Lake Superior Community Partnership, sharing the U.P. Perspective:

With a 25-year history in Marquette County’s economic development, the LSCP has seen many things come and go – and its past and present put us in a good spot for the future.

News from Sarah Lucas and Lake Superior Community Partnership, sharing the U.P. Perspective:

As many know, the LSCP and other U.P. partners have long advocated for the creation of the Office of Rural Development, which was established by Governor Whitmer in January. Last week, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development announced that I’ve been appointed to the new office.

Senators Secured Major Funding for Northern Michigan University in the Recently Passed Budget Bill

WASHINGTON—U.S. Senators Debbie Stabenow and Gary Peters announced that Northern Michigan University will receive $1.2 million through the U.S. Department of Agriculture to help fill the gap in fast, affordable internet service in the Upper Peninsula and Northern Michigan.

News from Sarah Lucas and Lake Superior Community Partnership, sharing the U.P. Perspective:

A critical goal in economic development is ensuring that businesses have the capital that they need to get started and grow. Understanding that funding can sometimes be difficult to access, the LSCP encourages businesses to take advantage of the opportunities available. These opportunities include the grants and loans available this month to businesses who are still recovering from the impact of the pandemic, new businesses, and start-ups, or those that could grow with a little additional support.

News from Sarah Lucas and Lake Superior Community Partnership, sharing the U.P. Perspective:

Celebrating the Value of Winter in Marquette County

While the U.P. has always understood the value of winter, every four years the Winter Olympics are a worldwide reminder of what winter has to offer. And this year, thanks to its star, Nick Baumgartner, they’re also a celebration of the U.P. and all its winter glory.

News from Sarah Lucas and Lake Superior Community Partnership, sharing the U.P. Perspective:

Economic development doesn’t just happen – it happens in a place.

It may sound obvious, but location is everything for any business or development venture. When businesses or developers decide where to locate or expand, they ask questions about the community they’re considering investing in, and how it supports business growth and economic sustainability. How difficult is it to obtain the permits or approvals needed to develop or open a business? Is there enough infrastructure, and is it affordable and efficient? Are there amenities like housing, good schools, parks, trails, services, and shopping that will attract a workforce?