The Evolving Workplace Landscape

As organizations across the country reevaluate workplace expectations, the conversation around remote, hybrid, and in-office work has never been more complex or more critical.

The next Economic Strategy Session will explore the evolving landscape of work, bringing together regional insights and real-world business perspectives to examine what’s working, what’s not, and what comes next. The session will begin with a data-driven overview from Networks Northwest followed by a moderated panel of local business leaders offering a balanced look at the opportunities and challenges across remote, hybrid, and in-person environments.

Please join us on June 17 from 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Traverse City Country Club. Registration costs $50 for Traverse Connect Investor & Special Guests or $75 for Future Investors. Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, and Supporting Sponsor, Munson Healthcare, for making this series possible. 

→ Will you have interns working with your business this summer? Send them to the Summer Spark Intern Event on June 3 to kick off their time here in Traverse City.

→ Grand Traverse County is growing at a pace that puts it alongside Michigan’s most ambitious fast-growth markets, according to regional data.

→ Investor news! In response to the spring flooding, nine area credit unions established the Northern Michigan Flood Relief Fund, a micro-grant to provide direct financial relief to members who experienced hardship as a result of the disaster.

→ Come out and celebrate the achievements of Traverse Connect’s member businesses with ribbon cuttings this month: The Folded Leaf!

→ Traverse City commissioners approved the city’s 2026-27 budget, a tax break for workforce housing within the Commongrounds Cooperative, and a partnership for paramedic training.

→ A new $19.3 million affordable housing complex opened last week in Traverse City, with a developer pledge to hold rents below market rate for at least 45 years. 

→ Ten educators have been selected to receive the 2026 Outstanding Educator Award in recognition of their dedication to student success and their positive impact.

→ This year marks the 100th anniversary of the National Cherry Festival, which just so happens to kick off on the 250th birthday of America.

→ Michigan’s agriculture director announced a new round of state grants aimed at helping farmers afford refrigerated transport, helping to get locally grown food to market.

→ The Grand Traverse Mental Health Crisis and Access Center released its first scorecard in Traverse City to highlight the impact of its inaugural year of operations.

→ Traverse City will implement seasonal parking rate and enforcement changes beginning Memorial Day weekend.

Is your business approaching an important milestone like an anniversary or a new location? Traverse Connect will host a ribbon cutting for your special day and help spread the word about your business. If you’re already a Traverse Connect investor, we invite you to plan your celebration today!