Register for the next Catalyst Conversation!
Join us for a session exploring solutions to the growing challenges of a shrinking working-age population and increasing staff shortages in northern Michigan. Learn practical strategies to ensure your organization attracts and retains the talent needed to succeed. Hear real-world examples from employers, including Abe Manthei of the Manthei Group, Ryan Schultz of Mr. Chain, Rena Dam of Global Detroit, and Dustin Stabile of Mackinaw Trail Winery and Brewery, who have successfully built new talent pipelines and workforce resources. Light refreshments will be provided. To sponsor this event or future ones, please contact Sam Bailey at sam@thenlea.com.
Out ‘N’ About
The NLEA team continues to advance business growth, infrastructure, and redevelopment projects across northern Michigan. This latest month included opportunities to celebrate some of the successes!
NLEA Joins Regional and State Leaders to Celebrate Aster Brands Expansion in Harbor Springs
Payton Heins, President & CEO, joined Representative Parker Fairbairn, 107th District, regional partners, and state leadership at the new home of Aster Brands in Harbor Springs. Aster Brands manufactures steel forming systems and provides engineering, marketing, and sales support as well as new product development for the concrete manufacturing industry. They outgrew their space in Charlevoix County and recently began their move and expansion into the vacant industrial site, retaining and adding critical family-sustaining jobs in the region. Jake Manthei, President of Aster Brands, provided an update on the company’s move, highlighted exciting plans for continued innovation and growth, and led a tour of their new and still evolving space. Payton stressed the impressive impact of Aster Brands’ expansion and its importance to the region.
NLEA Presents to House Appropriations Subcommittee – Labor and Economic Opportunity
Chris Bauer, Sr. Special Projects Officer for Infrastructure and Development; Ron Adams, Cheboygan Airport Authority President; and Michael Jermeay, Airport Manager, presented to the House Appropriations Subcommittee – Labor and Economic Opportunity on the importance of infrastructure improvements, and the economic impact of the Cheboygan County Airport. Chris has been working with the Cheboygan County Airport on these efforts, and earlier this year, Representative Cameron Cavitt, 106th District, sponsored a funding request to allow the airport to undertake this project.
NLEA Joins Regional and State Leaders to Celebrate Precision Hardwoods
Dave Kronberg, Director of Business Growth, joined Representative Cameron Cavitt, 106th District, and other regional partners at Precision Hardwoods to celebrate their new state-of-the-art sawmill. This expansion will add 18 new jobs in southeastern Cheboygan County and boost production capacity. Using cutting-edge machinery, the mill maximizes yield from every log – producing high-quality lumber while minimizing waste. Residuals like dust and chips are repurposed for nearby particle board manufacturing. NLEA was proud to attend this celebration and support this exciting growth for northern Michigan’s wood products industry.
We Can Help You Fund Your Next Project! |
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Grants and Incentives Assistance The NLEA has a team of economic and community development professionals with experience in grant writing services and incentive assistance to support your next development project. Contact Jessica Lovay to see how we can help you! Low-Interest Business Loan Assistance We can help you explore your financing options through our partnerships with Great Lakes Energy (GLE) and Venture North. Reach out to Dave Kronberg to learn more about these programs and how you may qualify. Great Lakes Energy Loan Programs - 0% GLE USDA Loan (up to $1M)
- GLE Revolving Loan Fund (up to $250,000)
Venture North Loan Programs - Express Loan ($5 – $25,000)
- New Business Micro Loan (up to $50,000)
- Existing Small Business Loan (up to $350,000)
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North Central Michigan College’s Regional Impact |
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North Central Michigan College (NCMC) plays an essential role in our region’s economic future and we’re proud to celebrate their impact! A recently released report highlights $78.9 million in economic impact to northern Michigan in the 2023-24 fiscal year, including: - 1 in 66 jobs in the region created by NCMC.
- NCMC alumni have added $61.4 million in income.
- Associate degree graduates earn, on average, an increased $8,400 annually.
- Taxpayers gain $1.50 and society gain $7.20 for every $1 invested.
From Fast-Track programs to associate degrees to the new Bachelor of Nursing program, NCMC is preparing the skilled talent our economy needs to thrive. Read the full report here. |
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Startup Coaching Available in the NLEA Region |
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NLEA’s Small Business Support Hub partner, 20Fathoms, is offering free startup coaching in Elk Rapids and Petoskey. Entrepreneurs are invited to stop in and connect with a startup coach who can provide help with troubleshooting, opportunity and gap analysis, resources, connections, and getting clear about strategic priorities. Specialty coaching about access to capital and for Indigenous entrepreneurs is also available by appointment. Coaching is free! View the calendar for availability. |
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Join us for a session exploring solutions to the growing challenges of a shrinking working-age population and increasing staff shortages in northern Michigan. 
