Detroit Never Left: Highlights from the Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals Annual Conference
Midwest Regional Director, Logan O’Neill, IOM, OhioCED, and Communications Director, Kristy LeVasseur, IOM
Michigan has become a national leader in clean energy investments and jobs, with federal policies spurring more investment in the sector. With 33 clean energy-related projects in motion, chambers throughout the state are working with businesses in their community and region to make the most of this economic boom. To help support the Michigan chamber industry, two CICE staff members traveled to Detroit for the Michigan Association of Chamber Professionals (MACP) annual conference in late October.
Economic growth and innovation were popular topics at this year’s conference. CICE’s Midwest Regional Director, Logan O’Neill, IOM, OhioCED, reflected upon his many conversations with Michigan chamber executives interested in everything from sustainability to the possibility of grant dollars relating to clean energy projects. In general, many chambers are starting important initiatives like developing business networks, creating neutral space for impactful community conversations, and becoming more active in economic development beyond the traditional business attraction.
The MACP Annual Conference included an in-depth tour of Detroit, highlighting how far the city has come in the last decade to make Detroit a destination. Among many interesting stops, like on-field access to the Detroit Lions’ Ford Field, participants toured the stunning revitalization of the Michigan Central Station by the Ford Motor Company. This historic building has become the home of Ford’s electric vehicle and connected services teams, bringing new life and 2,500 employees to the Corktown neighborhood. The first day ended with a tour of the Detroit Regional Chamber’s downtown offices. This regional chamber is helping to lead the way in Detroit’s success with several vital programs around workforce development, public policy, and regional collaboration.
Chambers are one of the most trusted economic voices in their communities, and this conference highlights their ingenuity and passion to grow their communities. Over this three-day conference, CICE staff engaged with Michigan chamber professionals eager to continue to see their communities thrive. The work of a chamber professional is complex but rewarding, and CICE will continue supporting these chamber leaders in their critical work, especially as they build the case for clean energy investments.
