Whether you’re a brand-new member or renewing your commitment to Traverse Connect, we have two upcoming opportunities to maximize your membership benefits.

First, on April 20, the New Investor Orientation is designed to help you and your team discover how to use Traverse Connect’s powerful resources and program, boost your visibility by updating your business directory page, and expand your network through connections with fellow members. Bring your computer and join us for a brief presentation followed by one-on-one support and networking opportunities.

Then, on April 22, Traverse Connect is hosting our bi-monthly Coffee Connection at the Hickory Hills Ski Area. Whether you have recently joined or have been a long-time member, Coffee Connection is a fantastic opportunity to connect with our team and network with the Traverse City business community. Our Presenting Sponsor is HOME Agency! Coffee will be generously provided by Biggby Coffee , and pastries will be provided by MSU Federal Credit Union!

→ Hear why rural regions don’t just participate in national innovation; they lead it. Join us for From Education to Operations: How Northern Michigan Is Building a National Model for Drone Integration on April 22 at 11:30 a.m. during Northern Michigan Startup Week.

→ Come out and celebrate the achievements of Traverse Connect’s member businesses with ribbon cuttings this month: Northland Mobile to You & The Folded Leaf. Meet new businesses in town and celebrate with special deals, refreshments, networking, and more!

→ Northern Michigan Startup Week kicks off on Monday, April 20 with a free keynote presentation from Michigan’s Chief Innovation Officer, Ben Marchionna at Milliken Auditorium.

→ Employers are still having a hard time finding people to fill open positions. In many cases, this problem is already damaging productivity and profits.

→ In honor of National Apprenticeship Week, Northwest Michigan Works is hosting a free Registered Apprenticeship Lunch and Learn Workshop & Race to Talent Celebration on April 23 from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm.

→ Hagerty employees will work on a hybrid work model at the downtown office. For nearby restaurants and bars, the change could bring a long-awaited economic boost.

→ Short’s Brewing is expanding, with plans to open its third location in Traverse City.

→ Local agencies, including Disability Network Northern Michigan, collaborate to help unhoused residents with disabilities find housing in Traverse City’s tight market.

→ The new Northwest Education Services early childhood facility will provide spaces for teaching, professional development for early educators, host public playgroups, and more.

→ TVC’s seasonal flight service schedule will accelerate in the coming weeks as air carriers expand their flight operations for the spring, summer, and fall seasons.

→ East Bay Township presented its proposed Beach District Corridor Improvement Authority, a 20-year tax increment financing plan to fund safety upgrades, pedestrian crossings, sidewalks, and stormwater improvements.

→ TIF 97 has paid for Traverse City’s sidewalks, street work, and river wall repairs since 1997 is nearing expiration, and voters could decide its future as soon as this November.