Packed Agenda for Northern Michigan Policy Conference
Northern Michigan’s most impactful policy event is quickly approaching. Join fellow business leaders, decision makers, and elected officials on Friday, January 23, 2026, at the Grand Traverse Resort & Spa for a full day of compelling conversations.
In a must-attend election year, the Northern Michigan Policy Conference returns with a robust agenda of panels, “policy pairs,” and a gubernatorial forum where voices from across Michigan’s political spectrum will engage directly with northern Michigan business leaders. Moderated throughout the day by Kyle Melinn, News Editor of MIRS, Michigan’s gubernatorial candidates will present their visions one-on-one in a series of engaging segments. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear directly from these candidates on a spectrum of issues shaping our region and state. View the full agenda of the day here.
As a member of the Northern Michigan Chamber Alliance, Traverse Connect would like to thank our sponsors for making this event possible: Diamond Sponsors, Consumers Energy and ITC Holdings, and Ruby Sponsor, Munson Healthcare. The Gubernatorial Forum is sponsored by DTE.
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→ Executive members and above, remember to schedule your investor advertising for 2026! Advertising is also available for purchase for Network investors. Learn more here.
→ Forbes breaks down the energy predictions for 2026 including Michigan’s leadership in the electric vehicle and aerial mobility industries.
→ Northwestern Michigan College agreed to sell the Boardman Lake Campus to the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa for $27 million.
→ East Bay Township’s newly formed Corridor Improvement Authority board is working to finalize its new tax increment financing plan.
→ Here’s a sampling from the most recent Traverse City Business News, which looks ahead to more than 20 people, places, and projects to watch in 2026.
→ Michigan wants to be the next major manufacturer of drones if everything goes according to plan.
→ Michigan’s future mobility economy is emerging as a regional system, shaped by geography instead of being defined by a single corridor, company, or technology.
→ The Traverse City Business Legends Hall of Fame welcomes two new inductees: Louise Hagerty and R. Floyd Clinch. Congratulations!
→ The Potato Gallery, located on Boon Street, celebrated a grand opening on December 16 and is hot and ready with comfort food for the winter.
→ Groups interested in using Traverse City’s former public library and museum, the Caregie Building, and Bijou by the Bay can submit their proposals soon.
