BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Grand Rapids Chamber - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://grandrapids.org X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Grand Rapids Chamber REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Detroit BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260415T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260415T123000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111359 CREATED:20251203T194701Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260413T160027Z UID:10000375-1776250800-1776256200@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:National Civics Bee DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \nThe Grand Rapids Chamber is partnering with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation to host a civics competition that encourages young Americans to engage in civics and contribute to their communities. Participating 6th\, 7th and 8th graders will flex their civics knowledge for a chance to win recognition and cash prizes. Finalists will be invited to Washington\, DC to compete in the inaugural National Civics Bee national championship in Fall 2026. \nWHY CIVICS?\nThe Grand Rapids Chamber is participating in the National Civics Bee because we believe that informed and active citizens make for a strong country\, a strong economy\, and a strong workforce\, and that our continued prosperity depends on the strength of all three. Through the Bee\, we are promoting greater civic knowledge in Michigan and celebrating our civic pride. \nEvent Sponsors\nEvent Underwriters \n \n \n \n \nBusiness Partner URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/national-civics-bee-4-15/ LOCATION:Gerald R. Ford Presidential Museum\, 303 Pearl St NW\, Grand Rapids\, 49504\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_Civics-Bee-Graphic-a250-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260420T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260420T090000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111359 CREATED:20251203T195144Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260417T155539Z UID:10000383-1776670200-1776675600@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Breakfast With Legislators DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \nUPDATE: This event is sold out. Walk-in registration is not available. \nCheck out other upcoming advocacy & government affairs events here! \n  \nBreakfast with Legislators events provide Chamber members and their employees the opportunity to establish relationships with key decision makers and voice opinions on issues moving forward in Lansing. Networking and facilitated question-and-answer sessions offer firsthand information on upcoming legislation and House and Senate committee activities\, prompting great dialogue between legislators and Chamber members. \nDon’t just listen\, participate. Submit your questions for the legislative panel during your registration. \nWe’re pleased to welcome the following state leaders to our upcoming Breakfast with Legislators. This panel brings a strong mix of perspectives from both the Michigan Senate and House\, offering attendees a valuable opportunity to engage directly on key issues impacting our region. \n\nSenator Thomas Albert\nRepresentative John Fitzgerald\nRepresentative Carol Glanville\nSenator Mark Huizenga\n\nEvent Sponsors\nPremier Sponsor \n \n \nEvent Underwriters \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nBusiness Partners \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nChamber Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/breakfast-with-legislators-4-20/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/GRC_BWL-April-2026-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260501T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260501T103000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111359 CREATED:20251203T194959Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260501T125150Z UID:10000453-1777629600-1777631400@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration\n \nThe updates occur on the first Friday of each month from 10:00 – 10:30 a.m. We will provide a quick overview on current advocacy efforts and top priorities being accomplished to create a thriving and diverse business climate for all.  \nEvent Sponsors\nAdvocay Underwriters \n \n \n \n \n \n \nPolicy Supporters \n \n \n \n \n2026 Speakers\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet\, consectetur adipiscing elit\, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam\, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/first-friday-update-5-1/ LOCATION:Zoom Webinar CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Complimentary Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_FFU-May-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260518T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260518T100000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111359 CREATED:20260428T195519Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260515T130541Z UID:10000482-1779091200-1779098400@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Grand Rapids Candidate Forum DESCRIPTION:Join us for the Grand Rapids City Commission Candidate Forum\, an opportunity for the local business community to hear directly from the candidates running to shape the future of our city. \nThis event provides the chance to engage with candidates\, learn where they stand on key issues impacting Grand Rapids\, and hear their vision for the city. Hear from: \n\nLindsey Perez-Plescher (First Ward)\nSteve Tibbe (First Ward)\nCommissioner Lisa Knight (Second Ward)\nBryan Cody (Second Ward)\nCommissioner Kelsey Perdue (Third Ward) URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/grand-rapids-candidate-forum/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/Graphic-Town-Hall-05.18.26-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260602T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260602T113000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111359 CREATED:20251113T221510Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T175552Z UID:10000380-1780385400-1780399800@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:West Michigan CEO Summit DESCRIPTION:The West Michigan CEO Summit brings together some of the most influential entrepreneurs and executives leading West Michigan. Meredith Bronk\, President and CEO of Progressive Companies\, will serve as the 2026 CEO Summit Chair. With a career marked by transformative leadership\, Meredith’s guidance will be invaluable as we gather for this premier executive event. \nWhat to expect:\n\n Keynote presentations with tools for business growth\nInspiring leadership lessons\nThe opportunity to participate in facilitated discussions on key issues\nNetworking with fellow West Michigan executives\n\nAttending the West Michigan CEO Summit\nThe West Michigan CEO Summit is one of the best investments you can make in your professional and personal development. Together\, we can ensure Grand Rapids is the best place to live and work. Together\, we can foster a thriving and prosperous West Michigan for ALL. \nBe a part of leading a growing West Michigan at the CEO Summit. \n \n Registration & Pricing\n \n \n Corporate Table\n \n AGENDA \n7:30 A.M. Registration\, Buffet Breakfast\, & Networking \n8:05 A.M. Welcome from the 2026 West Michigan CEO Summit ChairMeredith Bronk\, President & CEO\, Progressive Companies \n8:20 A.M. Leadership LessonJulie Leonard\, CEO\, LMCU \n8:50 A.M. Leadership LessonAshlea Souffrou\, Founder & CEO\, SxanPro \n9:05 A.M. Break & Networking \n9:20 A.M. New CEO ChatDarrius Barnes\, President\, AC Grand RapidsKara Wood\, Executive Director\, Grand Action 2.0 \n9:32 A.M. Discussion – The Impact of Local Ownership in West MichiganMeredith Bronk\, President & CEO\, Progressive CompaniesRick Baker\, President & CEO\, Grand Rapids ChamberGreg McNeilly\, President & CEO\, The Windquest GroupRobert Roth\, Executive Chairman\, RoMan Manufacturing \n9:55 A.M. Leadership LessonGabriel Grant\, Founder & CEO\, Care Granted \n10:10 A.M. Break & Networking \n10:25 A.M. Leadership LessonDaniel Watts\, CEO\, US Signal \n10:45 A.M. Leadership LessonTricia Keith\, President & CEO\, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan \n11:05 A.M. Leadership Lesson: GRA250Brian Hooks\, Chairman & CEO\, Stand Together \n11:20 A.M. Closing RemarksMeredith Bronk\, President & CEO\, Progressive CompaniesJeff Lumpp\, President\, Hylant and Grand Rapids Chamber Board Chair \n11:30 A.M. Adjourn \nCEO Summit Chair\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Meredith Bronk \n \n \n \n President & CEO \n \n \n \n Progressive Companies \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Meredith Bronk\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nThe Impact of Local Ownership in West Michigan Panel\nModerated by Meredith Bronk\, President & CEO\, Progressive Companies \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Greg McNeilly \n \n \n \n CEO & President \n \n \n \n The Windquest Group \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Greg McNeilly\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Rick Baker \n \n \n \n President & CEO \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Rick Baker\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Robert Roth \n \n \n \n Executive Chairman \n \n \n \n RoMan Manufacturing \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Robert Roth\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nMeet our speakers\nTurn their experience into your competitive advantage. Hear Leadership Lessons from these local leaders as they break down career-defining moments into strategies you can apply to your own organization. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ashlea Souffrou \n \n \n \n Founder & CEO \n \n \n \n SxanPro \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ashlea Souffrou\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Brian Hooks \n \n \n \n Chairman & CEO \n \n \n \n Stand Together \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Brian Hooks\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Daniel Watts \n \n \n \n CEO \n \n \n \n US Signal \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Daniel Watts\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Darrius Barnes \n \n \n \n President \n \n \n \n AC Grand Rapids \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Darrius Barnes\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Gabriel Grant \n \n \n \n Founder & CEO \n \n \n \n Care Granted \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Gabriel Grant\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Julie Leonard \n \n \n \n President &CEO \n \n \n \n LMCU \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Julie Leonard\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Kara Wood \n \n \n \n Executive Director \n \n \n \n Grand Action 2.0 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Kara Wood\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tricia Keith \n \n \n \n President & CEO \n \n \n \n Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Tricia Keith\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nEvent Sponsors\nPremier Sponsor \n \n \nTrustee Sponsor \n \n \nLive Chamber Voices Sponsor \n \n \nExclusive Technology Sponsor \n \n \nEvent Underwriter \n \n \n \n \n \n \nLead Supporter \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nChamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nMedia Sponsor URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/west-michigan-ceo-summit-2026/ LOCATION:JW Marriott Grand Rapids: International Ballroom\, 235 Louis St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Annual Events & Summits ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/WMCEO-2026-Graphic-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260605T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260605T103000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111400 CREATED:20251203T194957Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T171938Z UID:10000455-1780653600-1780655400@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration\n \nThe updates occur on the first Friday of each month from 10:00 – 10:30 a.m. We will provide a quick overview on current advocacy efforts and top priorities being accomplished to create a thriving and diverse business climate for all.  \nEvent Sponsors\nAdvocay Underwriter \n \n \n \n \n \n \nPolicy Supporter \n \n \n \n \n2026 Speakers\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet\, consectetur adipiscing elit\, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam\, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/first-friday-update-6-5/ LOCATION:Zoom Webinar CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Complimentary Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_FFU-June-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260618T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260618T180000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111400 CREATED:20260427T162914Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260427T162914Z UID:10000481-1781798400-1781805600@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Ending Homelessness: A Celebration of Impact DESCRIPTION:Registration\n \nThe event is an opportunity for private\, public and philanthropic partners working to end chronic homelessness to highlight successes and progress towards shared goals. \nWho should attend\nWhether you are a frontline service provider\, business leader or a community investor – we want you to join us for a time to celebrate and recommit to a vibrant and prosperous community for all. \nEvent Sponsors\nPolicy Supporter URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/ending-homelessness-a-celebration-of-impact/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Annual Events & Summits,Complimentary Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/GRC_Ending-Homelessness-2026-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260625T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260625T100000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111400 CREATED:20251203T194853Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260507T144152Z UID:10000419-1782374400-1782381600@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Chamber Issues Forum: Childcare & Public Spaces for Public Good DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \nMaking childcare more accessible and affordable remains a top priority for the business community and is an important factor in workforce participation and growth. As employers across West Michigan face talent issues\, the rising cost and limited availability of childcare remains a barrier to keeping parents from entering\, reentering\, or staying in the workforce. \nJoin the Grand Rapids Chamber for a Chamber Issues Forum exploring how public spaces and public-private partnerships can be leveraged for public good\, with a focus on innovative childcare solutions. Michigan’s nationally recognized Tri-Share model has shown what is possible when business\, government\, and community partners work together to share responsibility and cost—demonstrating the power of collaboration to support working families while strengthening the economy. \nThis forum will take place at Rapid Central Station\, home to a new on-site childcare facility that exemplifies how infrastructure and public space can be reimagined to meet community needs. Attendees will hear from Tracie Coffman of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation on the role of public spaces in advancing early childhood and family well-being\, followed by a panel discussion featuring perspectives from architecture\, policy\, philanthropy\, and service providers on designing and sustaining childcare solutions that work for families and employers alike. \nAgenda Highlights Include:\n\nPresentation on childcare and public spaces for public good\nPanel discussion with moderated Q&A\nNetworking with business and community leaders\nOptional tours of the new child care facility at Rapid Central Station\n\nThis event will provide data-backed insights and real-world examples to help business leaders better understand the role they can play—alongside public partners—in advancing childcare solutions that support workforce participation and long-term regional growth. \nBe part of the conversation shaping childcare solutions and public spaces that benefit our community. \nMeet our speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jeffrey Capizzano \n \n \n \n President \n \n \n \n Policy Equity Group \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Jeffrey Capizzano\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Scott Lewis \n \n \n \n President/CEO \n \n \n \n YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Scott Lewis\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Tracie Coffman \n \n \n \n Program Officer \n \n \n \n W.K. Kellogg Foundation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Tracie Coffman\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Zach Verhulst \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Pure Architects \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Zach Verhulst\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nEvent Sponsors\nCo-Premier Sponsor \n \n \n \n \nEvent Underwriter URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/chamber-issues-forum-6-25/ LOCATION:The Information Center at The Rapid Central Station\, 250 Cesar E. Chavez Ave SW\, Grand Rapids\, 49503-4005\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_CIF-June-Graphic-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260806T123000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260806T180000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111400 CREATED:20260211T163013Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T194955Z UID:10000379-1786019400-1786039200@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:West Michigan Housing Summit DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \nJoin housing leaders\, stakeholders\, and community members from across the region at the West Michigan Housing Summit for a dynamic\, solutions-focused conference centered on innovative strategies for addressing housing challenges. \nThis summit brings together cross-sector voices committed to moving beyond conversation and toward coordinated action on the region’s most pressing housing challenges. \nWHAT TO EXPECT\nA dynamic opening session from Sam Cummings and Ryan Kilpatrick\, reflecting on where we’ve been\, where we are now\, and where we’re headed together as a region. \nSix targeted breakout sessions addressing critical housing issues\, including: \n\nA legislative panel featuring leaders in housing reforms.\nStrategies for effective public engagement around housing and growth\nCorridor development and place-based investment to drive vibrancy\nPathways and tools for emerging developers\nThe limitations of subsidy-only approaches to housing affordability\nEffective\, coordinated responses to homelessness\n\nClosing with Energy\nCoby Lefkowitz will tie together insights from the day and challenge attendees to think boldly optimistic about the future of housing through coordinated\, cross-sector solutions. \nCoby is the author of Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like where he explores how we can create more beautiful and livable communities. \nDonor and sponsor support makes this convening possible and positions partners at the center of regional housing leadership. Sponsors gain visibility with key decision-makers\, align their brand with measurable community impact\, and help catalyze the ideas and collaborations that move housing solutions forward. \n \nWHO SHOULD ATTEND\nThis summit is for leaders and changemakers committed to improving housing outcomes\, including: \n\nHousing practitioners and advocates\nGovernment and public sector leaders\nDevelopers and real estate professionals\nEmerging developers and entrepreneurs\nNonprofit and community-based leaders\nPhilanthropic and funding partners\nPolicy and civic engagement professionals\nAnyone invested in housing affordability\, availability\, and stability\n\nIf you’re working to shape the future of housing in West Michigan\, this summit is for you. \n AGENDA \n12:30 p.m. Registration and Networking \n1:00 p.m. Opening Remarks and IntroductionJennifer Radaz\, Housing NextRyan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development ServicesSam Cummings\, CWD Real Estate Investment \n1:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break \n1:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions \nState Legislative PanelState Representatives Wooden\, Grant and AragonaModerated by Joshua Lunger\, Grand Rapids Chamber \nPublic EngagementJason Wheeler\, Wheeler DevelopmentRyan Schmidt\, Indigo Design + DevelopmentRowan Brady\, City of Grand RapidsModerated by Rebekah Kik\, City of Kalamazoo \nCorridor RedevelopmentCameron VanWyngarden\, Plainfield TownshipNicole Hofert\, City of WyomingModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services \n2:40 p.m. Transition + Networking Break \n2:55 p.m. Breakout Sessions \nAffordability Won’t Be Solved by Subsidy AloneDave Levitt\, Third CoastBev Thiel\, Habitat for Humanity of Kent CountyModerated by Ryan Kilpatrick\, Flywheel Community Development Services \nEffective Response to HomelessnessThelma Ensink\, Degagé MinistriesAdrienne Goodstal\, North Kent ConnectTenisa Frye\, Family Promise of West Michigan \n4:00 p.m. KeynoteCoby Lefkowitz\, author of “Building Optimism: What a World that Looks Better\, Works Better\, and Feels Better Could Look Like”  \n5:00 p.m. Happy Hour \n6:00 p.m. Adjourn \nMeet our speakers\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Coby Lefkowitz \n \n \n \n Co-Founder & Principal \n \n \n \n Backyard \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Coby Lefkowitz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jen Radaz \n \n \n \n Sr. Manager \n \n \n \n Housing Next \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Jen Radaz\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ryan Kilpatrick \n \n \n \n Founder + CEO \n \n \n \n Flywheel Community Development Services \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ryan Kilpatrick\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Sam Cummings \n \n \n \n Managing Partner \n \n \n \n CWD Real Estate Investment \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Sam Cummings\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nEvent Sponsors\nPremier Sponsor \n \n \nHousing Champions URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/west-michigan-housing-summit-2026/ LOCATION:Richard M. DeVos Center\, GVSU’s Pew Campus\, 401 Fulton St W\, Grand Rapids\, 49504\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Annual Events & Summits ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/GRC_WMHS-2026-Graphic-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260807T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260807T103000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111400 CREATED:20251203T194955Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T171945Z UID:10000456-1786096800-1786098600@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration\n \nThe updates occur on the first Friday of each month from 10:00 – 10:30 a.m. We will provide a quick overview on current advocacy efforts and top priorities being accomplished to create a thriving and diverse business climate for all.  \nEvent Sponsors\nAdvocay Underwriter \n \n \n \n \n \n \nPolicy Supporter \n \n \n \n \n2026 Speakers\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet\, consectetur adipiscing elit\, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam\, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/first-friday-update-8-7/ LOCATION:Zoom Webinar CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Complimentary Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_FFU-August-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260827T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260827T100000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111400 CREATED:20251203T194851Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260508T164829Z UID:10000420-1787817600-1787824800@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Chamber Issues Forum DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \nChamber Issues Forum events provide an opportunity for members to be part of the conversation around the most pressing topics impacting business in Michigan at the local\, state\, and federal levels. These events provide members with unbiased\, data-backed information and discussion to help make better decisions for organizations. \n2026 Speakers\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet\, consectetur adipiscing elit\, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam\, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat \n\nEvent Sponsors\nPremier Sponsor \n\n \nEvent Underwriter URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/chamber-issues-forum-8-27/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_CIF-August-Graphic-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260904T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260904T103000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111400 CREATED:20251203T194952Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T171951Z UID:10000457-1788516000-1788517800@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration\n \nThe updates occur on the first Friday of each month from 10:00 – 10:30 a.m. We will provide a quick overview on current advocacy efforts and top priorities being accomplished to create a thriving and diverse business climate for all.  \nEvent Sponsors\nAdvocay Underwriter \n \n \n \n \n \n \nPolicy Supporter \n \n \n \n \n2026 Speakers\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet\, consectetur adipiscing elit\, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam\, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/first-friday-update-9-4/ LOCATION:Zoom Webinar CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Complimentary Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_FFU-September-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260921T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260921T090000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111400 CREATED:20251203T195142Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T172634Z UID:10000384-1789975800-1789981200@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Breakfast With Legislators DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \nBreakfast with Legislators events provide Chamber members and their employees the opportunity to establish relationships with key decision makers and voice opinions on issues moving forward in Lansing. Networking and facilitated question-and-answer sessions offer firsthand information on upcoming legislation and House and Senate committee activities\, prompting great dialogue between legislators and Chamber members. \nDon’t just listen\, participate. Submit your questions for the legislative panel during your registration. \nEvent Sponsors\nEvent Underwriter \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nBusiness Partner \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nChamber Champion URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/breakfast-with-legislators-9-21/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/GRC_BWL-September-2026-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261002T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261002T103000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111400 CREATED:20251203T194950Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T171958Z UID:10000458-1790935200-1790937000@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration\n \nThe updates occur on the first Friday of each month from 10:00 – 10:30 a.m. We will provide a quick overview on current advocacy efforts and top priorities being accomplished to create a thriving and diverse business climate for all.  \nEvent Sponsors\nAdvocay Underwriter \n \n \n \n \n \n \nPolicy Supporter \n \n \n \n \n2026 Speakers\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet\, consectetur adipiscing elit\, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam\, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/first-friday-update-10-2/ LOCATION:Zoom Webinar CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Complimentary Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_FFU-October-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261106T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261106T103000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111400 CREATED:20251203T194948Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T172005Z UID:10000459-1793959200-1793961000@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration\n \nThe updates occur on the first Friday of each month from 10:00 – 10:30 a.m. We will provide a quick overview on current advocacy efforts and top priorities being accomplished to create a thriving and diverse business climate for all.  \nEvent Sponsors\nAdvocay Underwriter \n \n \n \n \n \n \nPolicy Supporter \n \n \n \n \n2026 Speakers\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet\, consectetur adipiscing elit\, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam\, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/first-friday-update-11-6/ LOCATION:Zoom Webinar CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Complimentary Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_FFU-November-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261120T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261120T100000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111400 CREATED:20251203T194848Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260206T210200Z UID:10000421-1795161600-1795168800@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Chamber Issues Forum DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \nChamber Issues Forum events provide an opportunity for members to be part of the conversation around the most pressing topics impacting business in Michigan at the local\, state\, and federal levels. These events provide members with unbiased\, data-backed information and discussion to help make better decisions for organizations. \n2026 Speakers\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet\, consectetur adipiscing elit\, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam\, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat \n\nEvent Sponsors\nPremier Sponsor \n \n \nEvent Underwriter \n \n \nChamber Champion URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/chamber-issues-forum-11-20/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/GRC_CIF-November-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261204T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261204T103000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111400 CREATED:20251203T194945Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T172012Z UID:10000460-1796378400-1796380200@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration\n \nThe updates occur on the first Friday of each month from 10:00 – 10:30 a.m. We will provide a quick overview on current advocacy efforts and top priorities being accomplished to create a thriving and diverse business climate for all.  \nEvent Sponsors\nAdvocay Underwriter \n \n \n \n \n \n \nPolicy Supporter \n \n \n \n \n2026 Speakers\nLorem ipsum dolor sit amet\, consectetur adipiscing elit\, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam\, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/first-friday-update-12-4/ LOCATION:Zoom Webinar CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Complimentary Events ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRC_FFU-December-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261207T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261207T090000 DTSTAMP:20260515T111400 CREATED:20251203T195140Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260506T172621Z UID:10000385-1796628600-1796634000@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Breakfast With Legislators DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \nBreakfast with Legislators events provide Chamber members and their employees the opportunity to establish relationships with key decision makers and voice opinions on issues moving forward in Lansing. Networking and facilitated question-and-answer sessions offer firsthand information on upcoming legislation and House and Senate committee activities\, prompting great dialogue between legislators and Chamber members. \nDon’t just listen\, participate. Submit your questions for the legislative panel during your registration. \nEvent Sponsors\nPremier Sponsor \n \n \nEvent Underwriter \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nBusiness Partner \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nChamber Champion URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/breakfast-with-legislators-12-7/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/GRC_BWL-December-2026-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR