BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Grand Rapids Chamber - ECPv6.15.18//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:20261002T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261002T103000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193643 CREATED:20251203T194950Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T175828Z UID:10000458-1790935200-1790937000@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell 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:20261007T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261007T090000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193643 CREATED:20251203T193958Z LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T180146Z UID:10000418-1791358200-1791363600@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Chamber 101 DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/chamber-101-10-7/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Complimentary Events,Networking ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Chamber-101-October.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261014T153000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261014T173000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193643 CREATED:20251114T193605Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T162435Z UID:10000377-1791991800-1791999000@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:37th Annual ATHENA Awards Celebration DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/37th-annual-athena-awards-celebration-2026/ LOCATION:JW Marriott Grand Rapids: International Ballroom\, 235 Louis St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Annual Events & Summits,Talent & Human Resources ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Graphic-ATHENA-Awards-Celebration-10.14.26.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261015T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261015T133000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193643 CREATED:20251203T194510Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T205539Z UID:10000449-1792063800-1792071000@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Business Exchange Luncheon DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/business-exchange-luncheon-10-15/ LOCATION:Thousand Oaks Golf Club\, 4100 Thousand Oaks NE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49525\, United States CATEGORIES:Networking ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Graphic-BEX-10.15.26-2.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261027T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261027T090000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193643 CREATED:20251203T195404Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T162942Z UID:10000394-1793086200-1793091600@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Leadership Lesson Breakfast DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/leadership-lesson-breakfast-10-27/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Talent & Human Resources,Talent Development ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/GRC_LLB-October-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261028T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261028T130000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193643 CREATED:20251203T194800Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T162859Z UID:10000413-1793185200-1793192400@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:OutPro Forum DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/outpro-forum-10-28/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Networking,Talent & Human Resources ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Graphic-OutPro-10.28.26-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261028T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261028T170000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193644 CREATED:20251203T194130Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T163426Z UID:10000438-1793203200-1793206800@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Chamber Happy Hour DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/chamber-happy-hour-10-28/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Complimentary Events,Networking ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/GRAPHIC-CHH-10.28.26.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261106T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261106T103000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193644 CREATED:20251203T194948Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T175833Z UID:10000459-1793959200-1793961000@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell 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:20261110T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261110T113000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193644 CREATED:20251113T201427Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260406T140526Z UID:10000378-1794295800-1794310200@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Talent & Human Resources Summit DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/talent-human-resources-summit-2026/ LOCATION:JW Marriott Grand Rapids\, 235 Louis St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Annual Events & Summits,Talent & Human Resources ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/GRC_THRS-Graphic-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261112T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261112T180000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193644 CREATED:20251203T194233Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260205T141702Z UID:10000429-1794499200-1794506400@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:West Michigan Minority Contractors DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/west-michigan-minority-contractors-11-12/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Complimentary Events,Economic Growth,Networking ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Graphic-WMMC-11.12.26-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261117T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261117T170000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193644 CREATED:20251203T194825Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T163828Z UID:10000426-1794927600-1794934800@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:ATHENA Leadership Forum DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/athena-leadership-forum-11-17/ LOCATION:TBD CATEGORIES:Talent & Human Resources ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Graphic-ATHENA-Leadership-Forum-11.17.26.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261119T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261119T133000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193644 CREATED:20251203T194546Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T205549Z UID:10000450-1795087800-1795095000@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Business Exchange Luncheon DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/business-exchange-luncheon-11-19/ LOCATION:Sheraton Grand Rapids Airport\, 5700 28th St SE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49546\, United States CATEGORIES:Networking ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Graphic-BEX-11.19.26-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261120T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261120T100000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193644 CREATED:20251203T194848Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260206T210200Z UID:10000421-1795161600-1795168800@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Chamber Issues Forum DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell 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:20261203T080000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261203T100000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193644 CREATED:20251203T195116Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T205558Z UID:10000441-1796284800-1796292000@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Business Exchange Breakfast DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/business-exchange-breakfast-12-3/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Networking ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/BEXB-December-scaled.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261204T100000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261204T103000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193644 CREATED:20251203T194945Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260107T175841Z UID:10000460-1796378400-1796380200@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:First Friday Update DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell 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:20260409T193645 CREATED:20251203T195140Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260323T143013Z UID:10000385-1796628600-1796634000@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Breakfast With Legislators DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell 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 BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261208T083000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261208T103000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193645 CREATED:20251203T194410Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260311T163551Z UID:10000424-1796718600-1796725800@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Business Growth Workshop DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/business-growth-workshop-12-8/ LOCATION:Grand Rapids Chamber\, 250 Monroe Ave\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Economic Growth ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/BGW-December.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20261217T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20261217T133000 DTSTAMP:20260409T193645 CREATED:20251203T194507Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260224T205605Z UID:10000451-1797507000-1797514200@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Business Exchange Luncheon DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n If you plan to sell your business at any point\, whether it’s soon or decades from now\, this four-part private webinar series provides the essential knowledge every business owner needs before putting their company on the market. Participants will discover the full range of exit strategies available\, from traditional sales to employee buyouts to family transitions\, and learn the critical steps to maximize business value and ensure a smooth transition. This series is specifically designed to prepare and equip business owners with the options to make informed\, confident decisions regarding one of the most significant financial and emotional transitions they may encounter in their lifetime. Participants will also have the opportunity to ask our series’ experts candid questions and get real answers—while remaining completely anonymous. \n \n \n \n Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit \n \n \n \n Stay in control by understanding your options before you’re forced to act.Protect your business\, which is likely your largest asset\, while learning to grow it and exit on your terms.Learn how to avoid costly mistakes by gaining insight from experienced advisors on valuation\, timing\, and deal structure.Discover the steps successful owners take years in advance to intentionally build value and better exit outcomes. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Event Sponsors \n \n \n \n \n Chamber Champion \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n 2026 Speakers \n \n \n \n Lorem 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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Christine Simon \n \n \n \n Vice President of Government Affairs \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Christine Simon\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Snyder \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer \n \n \n \n Consumers Energy \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Snyder\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Michael Fleck \n \n \n \n Director of Reliability & Regional Planning \n \n \n \n ITC Holdings Corporation \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Michael Fleck\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Natalie Stewart Mitchell \n \n \n \n SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development \n \n \n \n Switch \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/business-exchange-luncheon-12-17/ LOCATION:Sheraton Grand Rapids Airport\, 5700 28th St SE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49546-6976\, United States CATEGORIES:Networking ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Graphic-BEX-12.17.26-1.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR