Indian River — The Northern Lakes Economic Alliance (NLEA) will host its next Catalyst Conversations event, Tools and Resources for Local Investment, on Wednesday, September 23, from 10 to 11:30 a.m. at the COP ESD building in Indian River. The event will bring together regional, state and federal resource providers to help local leaders and businesses better understand the tools available to advance development and investment in Northern Michigan.
The Spring 2026 Economic Pulse Report found that 100% of local government leaders surveyed want to see additional development in their communities, with desired development ranging from mixed-use and residential to industrial projects. At the same time, 74% of business leaders reported plans for a physical expansion within the region over the next four years.
While there is significant interest in growth and investment, navigating the resources and processes needed to move projects forward can be challenging. Catalyst Conversations: Tools and Resources for Local Investment will provide attendees with an overview of programs, financing tools and other resources available to help overcome barriers and turn development opportunities into viable projects.
“Northern Michigan has no shortage of communities and businesses looking to invest and grow, but knowing where to turn for resources can make all the difference in moving a project forward,” said Jessica Lovay, Senior Program Manager for Community Investment. “This conversation is designed to connect local leaders and businesses with the organizations and tools that can help make those investments possible.”
The event will feature presentations from experts representing federal, state and regional organizations, including:
- Donald Mulson, Business Programs Director with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, will discuss federal programs that support public and private sector investment, best practices for moving projects forward, and opportunities for investment in the region.
- Jessica Lovay, Senior Program Manager for Community Investment with NLEA, will highlight development-financing tools available to local governments and explain how NLEA connects regional projects with resources and partners.
- Julie Lowe, Brownfield Coordinator with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), will explore EGLE programs and brownfield resources that can help address environmental barriers and prepare properties for redevelopment.
- Lindsey Clark, Senior Community Development Manager with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC), will discuss MEDC programs that support public and private investment, along with best practices for helping projects move forward.
Together, these resources can help communities and businesses address barriers to development, prepare properties for investment and identify funding and partnerships that support successful projects.
The event is open to local government and community leaders, businesses, developers, economic development partners and others interested in advancing investment in the region.
Catalyst Conversations: Tools and Resources for Local Investment
Wednesday, September 23, 2026 | 10–11:30 a.m.
Wednesday, September 23, 2026 | 10–11:30 a.m.
COP ESD Building | Indian River, Michigan
Registration is required. To learn more and register, visit https://thenlea.com/calendar/catalyst-conversations-tools-and-resources-for-local-investment/
