Gathering nearly 300 business and community leaders, alongside state and federal officials, the symposium highlighted innovation and its crucial role in shaping the region's economic landscape. Throughout the day, attendees engaged in dynamic discussions and gained valuable insights from esteemed speakers and industry experts.

The day began with keynote speeches from Brian Britton, President and CEO of Kilwins Chocolates Franchise, and Jake Manthei, President of Aster Brands, igniting inspiration and setting the stage for a day filled with economic insight and opportunity.

Breakout sessions delved into critical topics such as innovation in outdoor recreation, housing construction, land-based industries, and strategies for navigating the tight labor market. Attendees had the opportunity to learn from local innovators and industry leaders, gaining insights to drive economic success within the community.

The Symposium also featured an award showcase, honoring the following recipients: Lifetime Achievement Award – Ed Grice; Project of the Year Award – Manthei Wood Products; Guts and Grit Award – The Community of Cheboygan, accepted by Dan Sabolsky, Cheboygan City Manager.

“This year’s Symposium was an important celebration of the innovation happening right here in this region. We look forward to building upon this momentum at next year’s event,” said Payton Heins, president of Northern Lakes Economic Alliance.

NLEA, established in 1984, is a regional economic development organization serving Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, and Emmet Counties in Northern Michigan. NLEA works directly with local units of government on infrastructure projects, facilitates local company growth and expansion, and assists many local companies on a wide range of issues that help retain existing jobs and create new jobs. For more information visit northernlakes.net

MBN was on hand for this event, and will be sharing both a synopsis video on the day and a video on the luncheon, a breakout session, and afternoon panel discussion - check back in for those videos in coming days).