Grand Rapids Chamber

Talent & Human Resources Summit
2026-11-10 07:30 - 11:30 (America/Detroit) | JW Marriott Grand Rapids, 235 Louis St NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
The Grand Rapids Chamber‘s Talent & Human Resources Summit is one of West Michigan’s premier gatherings for HR professionals, executives, and people leaders committed to shaping the future of work.
This signature event brings together thought leaders and industry experts to explore the latest trends and strategies in talent acquisition, retention, employee engagement, and organizational culture. Attendees will gain practical tools and insights to strengthen their people strategies, foster belonging, and build workplaces where both employees and organizations thrive.
Whether you’re leading HR initiatives, developing leaders, or driving organizational change, the Talent & Human Resources Summit offers inspiration, connection, and actionable solutions to meet the evolving needs of today’s workforce.
Join us as we advance West Michigan’s talent and leadership excellence together.

Registration & Pricing

Corporate Table

2026 Speakers
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2026 Panelists
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Event Sponsors
Premier Sponsor

Event Underwriter

Executive Sponsor

Chamber Champion

Inclusion Advocate

First Friday Update
2026-11-06 10:00 - 10:30, 2026-10-02 10:00 - 10:30, 2026-09-04 10:00 - 10:30 | Zoom Webinar
Registration

The 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.
Event Sponsors
Advocay Underwriter

Policy Supporter

2026 Speakers
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Chamber Happy Hour
2026-10-28 16:00 - 17:00, 2026-09-30 16:00 - 17:00, 2026-08-26 16:00 - 17:00 | Grand Rapids Chamber, 250 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Join the Grand Rapids Chamber for happy hour and networking with fellow and future members. Chamber Happy Hour takes place on Wednesdays throughout the year in our Work Café.
Event Sponsors
Premier Sponsor

Beer Fridge Sponsor

Food Partner

Chamber Champion

2026 Speakers
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OutPro Forum
2026-10-28 11:00 - 13:00, 2026-08-19 11:00 - 13:00 | Grand Rapids Chamber, 250 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Registration & Pricing

As a champion for a diverse and inclusive community, the Chamber is proud to provide OutPro, an LGBTQ+ professionals group that can serve as both a resource to employers and employees, as well as an affinity group for the LGBTQ+ community.
OutPro promotes a welcoming culture in the West Michigan community and offers social and professional networking opportunities throughout the city. OutPro events are attended by professionals at all career levels, representing a diversity of corporations, small businesses, and public and non-profit organizations.
Event Sponsors
Premier Sponsor

Event Underwriter

Community Trustee

Chamber Champion

2026 Speakers
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Leadership Lesson Breakfast
2026-10-27 07:30 - 09:00 | Grand Rapids Chamber, 250 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Registration & Pricing

Leadership Lesson Breakfasts feature strong community trustees and leaders sharing valuable leadership lessons.
2026 Speaker

Meredith Bronk

President and CEO

Progressive Companies

ABOUT Meredith Bronk

Event Sponsors
Premier Sponsor

Event Underwriter

Business Exchange Luncheon
2026-10-15 11:30 - 13:30 | Thousand Oaks Golf Club, 4100 Thousand Oaks NE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49525, United States
Registration & Pricing

The Chamber’s most popular networking series brings together West Michigan professionals to foster connections that turn into leads. This event provides members and future members with the opportunity to learn about the services and products offered in their communities through both open and facilitated networking. Expo tables, conversation, and a buffet of food are available upon arrival, followed by three rounds of 20-minute facilitated networking. It’s the go-to event for growing your social capital and building meaningful business relationships.
Event Sponsors
Chamber Champion

Business Expo Series Sponsor

2026 Speakers
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37th Annual ATHENA Awards Celebration
2026-10-14 15:30 - 17:30 | JW Marriott Grand Rapids: International Ballroom, 235 Louis St NW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
The ATHENA Awards Celebration honors those who embody, encourage, and promote the inclusion of women. Join us for an afternoon of celebration, inspiration, networking, and announcing our ATHENA award recipients on Wednesday, October 14!

The ATHENA Leadership Award is presented to an exceptional leader whose dedication to professional excellence, community service, and empowerment of women exemplifies the highest standards of leadership and mentorship.
The ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award is presented to a rising leader who demonstrates excellence, creativity, and initiative. They serve as a role model and improve the quality of life for others.
The ATHENA Organizational Leadership Award recognizes a company that intentionally fosters an environment for women to thrive. This organization is outstanding in their pursuit of supporting, developing, and honoring women leaders in every stage of their life and career.

Nominate an Individual or Organization
Nominations are open now! Nominations will be accepted through Friday, June 12, and will be reviewed by the ATHENA Selection Committee to determine award finalists and recipients.

NOMINATE NOW

Award criteria is based on eight guiding principles of leadership:Authentic Self | Relationships | Giving Back | Collaboration | Courageous Acts | Learning | Fierce Advocacy | Celebration and Joy
Learn more at https://grandrapids.org/athena-grand-rapids/.

Registration & Pricing

Corporate Table

2026 Speakers
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Event Sponsors
Premier Sponsor

Finalist Reception

Program Underwriter

Lead Supporter

Chamber Champion

Toast Supporter

BloomAwards
2026-10-08 18:00 - 20:30 | Goei Center, 818 Butterworth St SW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49504
MomsBloom is hosting their annual fundraising event on Thursday, October 8th at 6pm at the Goei Center! This fundraising event celebrates the village behind every family, beginning with a lively cocktail hour featuring live music, drinks, appetizers, and a silent auction with exclusive experiences and products. The program will highlight MomsBloom’s impact through client stories and recognition of community members and companies who support postpartum families. Tickets start at $99 per person. To sponsor or purchase tickets, visit https://www.momsbloom.org/ba2026 or contact Kimber Wager at kimber@momsbloom.org.

Chamber 101
2026-10-07 07:30 - 09:00 | Grand Rapids Chamber, 250 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Registration & Pricing

Chamber 101 is designed for members looking to begin, continue or further involvement with the Chamber. Chamber 101 allows members to learn about the different Chamber offerings and how to start getting involved to make the most of your membership.
Event Sponsors
Chamber Champion

2026 Speakers
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Talent & Human Resources Workshop
2026-09-29 08:30 - 10:30 | Grand Rapids Chamber, 250 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Registration & Pricing

The Talent & Human Resources Workshop Series equips West Michigan’s business community with the tools, insights, and strategies to navigate today’s rapidly evolving workforce. Held quarterly, these workshops provide HR professionals, executives, and people leaders with a focused space to deepen their expertise year-round.
Each session delivers practical, real-world approaches to talent acquisition, retention, employee engagement, and building organizational cultures where people feel valued and supported. Whether you’re rolling out new HR initiatives, developing leaders, or driving organizational change, these workshops offer actionable guidance, peer connections, and strategies to strengthen your people practices and drive results.
This session is eligible for 1 SHRM PDC. Information on claiming your credits will be sent directly to your registered email address upon completion of the program.

2026 Speakers
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Event Sponsors
Premier Sponsor

Event Underwriter

Executive Sponsor

Chamber Champion

Inclusion Advocate

10th Annual Celebrate the Harvest
2026-09-23 17:00 - 20:00 | Goei Center, 818 Butterworth St SW, Grand Rapids, MI, 49504
Join us for an extraordinary evening where culinary artistry meets community spirit at Revive & Thrive’s 10th Annual Celebrate the Harvest Chef Dinner & Fundraiser! Indulge in a spectacular feast crafted by Revive & Thrive’s Executive Chef Mandy Thompson. Our evening continues with the much-anticipated live auction, where exclusive experiences await the highest bidder!
This isn’t just a dinner—it’s your chance to nourish our community while treating yourself to an unforgettable celebration. Tickets will vanish faster than dessert! Secure your seat at the table: https://onecau.se/cth2026!
All proceeds from Celebrate the Harvest will benefit Revive & Thrive and allow us to continue to provide fresh, medically supportive meals to those in Greater Grand Rapids facing cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.

Stitch by Stitch - Weaving Innovation into Your Family Business
2026-09-23 15:30 - 18:00 | Watermark Country Club, 1600 Galbraith Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49546, United States
Longevity in family business doesn’t happen by standing still, it’s earned through continual reinvention and a culture that welcomes new ideas.
At the heart of enduring enterprises is a blend of entrepreneurial spirit, creative problem-solving, and the confidence to evolve while honoring the past.
Seaman Corporation exemplifies this mindset. From its origins sewing lace on baby diapers to becoming a global provider of high-performance industrial fabrics, the company’s history is defined by reinvention and innovation.
Join us for an inside look at how this multigenerational business has built a culture that embraces change, navigates transitions, and positions the organization for long-term growth.
Our featured speaker, Richard Seaman, will share reflections from his decades of leadership and reveal how the company embeds innovation into its operating rhythm through:
Strategic planning that anticipates shifts in markets and technology
Digital and operational tools that unlock new opportunities
Leadership practices that encourage creativity and collaboration
Purposeful next-gen pathways that bring fresh thinking into the business
You’ll gain practical guidance for cultivating a culture where innovation thrives, helping your family business stay relevant, agile, and future-ready.

Emerging Leaders Fall Cohort Kickoff
2026-09-22 11:45 - 17:00 | Grand Rapids Chamber, 250 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Registration & Pricing

If you are a professional with a passion for growing your career and becoming actively engaged in the community, Emerging Leaders offers the ideal setting to expand your horizons.
Make Grand Rapids your classroom with five half-day sessions that combine tours, speakers, activities, and interdisciplinary discussions that build community connections, leadership skills, and insight into issues facing Grand Rapids.
Event Sponsors
Premier Sponsor

2026 Speakers
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Breakfast With Legislators
2026-09-21 07:30 - 09:00 | Grand Rapids Chamber, 250 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Registration & Pricing

Breakfast 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.
Don’t just listen, participate. Submit your questions for the legislative panel during your registration.
Event Sponsors
Event Underwriter

Business Partner

Chamber Champion

Business Exchange Luncheon
2026-09-17 11:30 - 13:30, 2026-08-20 11:30 - 13:30 | Calvin University – Prince Conference Center, 1800 E Beltline Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI, 49546, United States

Business Growth Workshop
2026-09-15 08:30 - 10:30 | Grand Rapids Chamber, 250 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Registration & Pricing

Business Growth Workshops focus on developing business knowledge and sharing best practices through providing hands-on time with subject matter experts.
Event Sponsors
Program Underwriter

Chamber Champion

Underwriter

2026 Speakers
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Women In Leadership Fall Cohort Kickoff
2026-09-14 13:00 - 16:30 | Grand Rapids Chamber, 250 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Registration & Pricing

Women in Leadership is a customized program for women leaders who are ready to take charge of their careers, develop as a leader and form lasting relationships with the fellow women in their cohort. Based on research and trends, this workshop will empower participants to shatter the glass ceiling and achieve their goals.
Event Sponsors
Premier Sponsor

Trustee Sponsor

2026 Speakers
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LeadUp Fall Cohort Kickoff
2026-09-10 13:00 - 16:30 | Grand Rapids Chamber, 250 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Registration & Pricing

Having the opportunity to lead and influence a team is no easy feat. Lead Up: Leadership Development for New Managers is designed to guide new managers through the concepts, principles, and best practices necessary for a successful transition. Learn how to define, assign, and enable others to do the work, all while building a culture around trust and transparency.
Gain insights on things you haven’t considered before and breakdown important subjects to engage, retain and inspire your team. An interactive curriculum and individual coaching included in the program have been tailored specifically to build a strong foundation of leadership skills.
Event Sponsors
Premier Sponsor

2026 Speakers
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Latina Connect
2026-09-10 08:00 - 10:00 | Grand Rapids Chamber, 250 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Registration & Pricing

Latina Connect meets our Latina business professionals and community members where they are. This program works to support Latinas in making new connections and growing as leaders.
Latina Connect está diseñado para respaldar a las profesionales latinas y miembros de la comunidad, fomentando nuevas conexiones y fortaleciendo su liderazgo.
2026 Speakers
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Event Sponsors
Premier Sponsor

Event Underwriter

Chamber Champion

Interpreter Sponsor

Media Sponsor

West Michigan Minority Contractors
2026-09-03 16:00 - 18:00 | Grand Rapids Chamber, 250 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Registration & Pricing

West Michigan Minority Contractors (WMMC) is made up of minority-owned and women-owned businesses in the construction trades, as well as general contractors. The program aims to strengthen contractors through cultivating relationships and new business partnerships among participants. Through WMMC, you can promote your products and services, develop business relationships, and help strengthen the contractor community in West Michigan.
2026 Speakers
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Event Sponsors
Program Underwriter

Chamber Champion

Underwriter

Business Exchange Breakfast
2026-09-03 08:00 - 10:00 | Grand Rapids Chamber, 250 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Registration & Pricing

What to expect:
This event will reflect the layout of our staple networking event, the Business Exchange Luncheon with a few revisions. We will provide a light breakfast and plenty of coffee to start your day with connections to elevate your business.
During this event, participants will have the opportunity to tell other West Michigan business professionals about their business and pitch their products, services, or needs in a “speed-dating” roundtable format. There will be three, 20-minute rounds.
2026 Speakers
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Event Sponsors
Chamber Champion

Business Expo Series Sponsor

Chamber Issues Forum
2026-08-27 08:00 - 10:00 | Grand Rapids Chamber, 250 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Registration & Pricing

Chamber 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.
2026 Speakers
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Event Sponsors
Premier Sponsor

Event Underwriter

Business Acquisition: From Search to Purchase
2026-08-26 13:00 - 15:00 | Grand Rapids Chamber, 250 Monroe Ave, Grand Rapids, MI, 49503, United States
Registration & Pricing

Looking to purchase and operate a business here in the region?
This workshop is designed for experienced professionals who are entrepreneurially minded and ready to take a step toward business ownership, or for those looking to buy another business or step up to take ownership of their current company. Participants will learn the fundamentals of searching for and acquiring a business, including how to know if you’re ready, identify opportunities, evaluate potential acquisitions, and navigate the diligence process. Through this session, you’ll explore how you can preserve local businesses, strengthen the West Michigan economy, and prepare for the next step in your potential acquisition journey.
Who should attend?

Business owners looking to grow through acquisition
Executives looking to lead, not follow
Entrepreneurs looking to expand their portfolios

Meet the Speaker

Derrick McIver

Co-Founder and Managing Partner

Sleeping Giant Capital

ABOUT Derrick McIver

Event Sponsors
Chamber Champion

Business Transition: From Value Building to Exit Strategies
2026-08-19 08:30 - 11:00 | Anonymous Zoom Webinar
Registration & Pricing

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.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Plan Your Exit

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.

Event Sponsors
Chamber Champion

2026 Speakers
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Christine Simon

Vice President of Government Affairs

Grand Rapids Chamber

ABOUT Christine Simon

Lauren Snyder

Senior Vice President and Chief Customer & Growth Officer

Consumers Energy

ABOUT Lauren Snyder

Michael Fleck

Director of Reliability & Regional Planning

ITC Holdings Corporation

ABOUT Michael Fleck

Natalie Stewart Mitchell

SVP of Government Affairs and Campus Development

Switch

ABOUT Natalie Stewart Mitchell
