2026 West Shore Business & Economic Summit

What’s ahead for our region? Join us for the West Shore Business & Economic Summit on Thursday, Nov. 12, for an afternoon focused on the issues, trends, and opportunities impacting our rural communities. Hear from knowledgeable speakers on the economy, cybersecurity, and legislative developments from Lansing, while connecting with business and community leaders from across the West Shore. Come ready to learn, make connections, and gain insights to help your organization navigate what’s next. The event runs 1-4:30 p.m. followed by a cocktail hour until 5:30 p.m.

Session Information

1:15 PM "EVERYONE'S TALKING, NOBODY LISTENING" KEYNOTE – The summit begins at the college’s Center Stage Theater with opening keynote speaker David VanderMolen, founder of Inspired 2 Change. VanderMolen will explore how listening can help individuals become more effective leaders.

2:30 PM CYBERSECURITY PANEL DISCUSSION – A cybersecurity panel featuring representatives from healthcare, insurance, finance, education and the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) will follow. The session will highlight potential risks and practical strategies for protecting individuals, employees and businesses.

3 PM "CIVILITY IN COMMUNICATION" – VanderMolen will return for a session on civility in communication, focusing on ways to navigate difficult conversations while keeping teams productive and engaged.

3:45 PM LEGISLATIVE LANDSCAPE – The final presentation will feature Wendy Block of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce. Following the November elections, Block will share insights from Lansing and discuss potential implications for local communities and businesses.

4:30-5:30 PM COCKTAIL HOUR – The summit will conclude with a happy hour, providing attendees an opportunity to continue conversations and build professional connections.