Last Thursday, February 5, 2026, Southwest Michigan First hosted its third annual State of Economic Development event, welcoming more than 500 regional stakeholders, business owners, and community leaders for an afternoon focused on economic insights, emerging trends, and the future of our regional economy.
The program opened with a data-driven economic outlook from Dr. Chris Thornberg, founding partner of Beacon Economics, who provided timely analysis of the Southwest Michigan economy and broader national trends. Attendees also heard from futurist Erica Orange, who explored how artificial intelligence is reshaping business, talent, and innovation, and what leaders should be thinking about now to stay competitive.
An engaging entrepreneurship panel highlighted the strength and momentum of Southwest Michigan’s startup ecosystem. Panelists shared lessons learned, success stories, and strategies for building and scaling businesses in our region. Panelists included:
- Elizabeth Bernhard, Executive Director, South Haven Regional Business Hub
- Carl Brown, Executive Director and Cofounder, Startup Zoo
- Dwayne Powell Jr., Cofounder, Chief Operating Officer, and Managing Partner, Kalamazoo Forward Ventures
- Andrew Robinson, President and CEO, The Emerge Innovation Hub
- Phill Swanson, Southwest Michigan First Entrepreneurship Hub
Jonas Peterson shares The Road to Regional Prosperity, highlighting over $9.5 billion in economic impact and the next three years of focused growth for Southwest Michigan.
Jonas Peterson, CEO of Southwest Michigan First, also introduced The Road to Regional Prosperity, the organization’s new three-year strategic action plan that builds upon the previous one. The plan outlines targeted strategies and tactics designed to position Southwest Michigan as one of the most economically prosperous regions in Michigan and the United States. Jonas shared highlights from recently completed and ongoing industrial, residential, and community projects, representing more than $9.5 billion in economic impact over the past three years.
Each conversation throughout the afternoon reinforced the importance of regional collaboration and alignment around shared goals that benefit all seven counties in Southwest Michigan.
A highlight of the event was hearing from all four leading Michigan gubernatorial candidates, who shared their vision for the state’s future:
- Jocelyn Benson, Michigan Secretary of State
- Mike Duggan, former Mayor of Detroit
- John James, U.S. Representative, Michigan’s 10th District
- Aric Nesbitt, Michigan Senate Minority Leader
Their perspectives served as a powerful reminder that strong leadership, innovation, and forward-thinking policy are essential to Michigan’s long-term economic success.
As part of the Thrive in Southwest Michigan regional talent attraction campaign, Southwest Michigan First also gave away seven curated experiences—one for each county—showcasing the unique amenities, attractions, and quality of life that make our region an exceptional place to live and work.
The 2026 State of Economic Development underscored what makes Southwest Michigan so special: a shared commitment to growth, opportunity, and regional collaboration. When we work together around common priorities, everyone wins. Our region is stronger than ever.
It’s a great time to be in Southwest Michigan!
Thank you to our presenting sponsor, Consumers Energy; our title sponsors Imperial Beverage, Zeigler Auto Group, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, Clark Logic, Great Lakes Capital and IP USA, Huntington Bank, Kabundant, Western Michigan University, Priority Health, CSM Group, Consumers Concrete, Greenleaf Hospitality Group, Honor Credit Union, PNC Bank, The Kalamazoo Promise, and Wiser Financial Group; plus our general sponsors: Advia Credit Union, Allied Mechanical Services, Aunalytics, AVB, County National Bank, Custer, Denso, First National Bank of Michigan, Fishbeck, Greenleaf Trust, Heco Inc., Kzoom, Michigan Economic Development Corporation, Nulty Insurance, Peregrine, Plante Moran, Southern Michigan Bank and Trust, South Michigan Child Care Coalition, Sturgis Bank, TowerPinkster, W.E. Upjohn Institute, and Wolverine Building Group.
Without their generous support, this program would not be possible.