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:20240310T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20241103T060000 END:STANDARD 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:20260416T113000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260416T133000 DTSTAMP:20260430T170406 CREATED:20251203T194544Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260414T154615Z UID:10000443-1776339000-1776346200@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Business Exchange Luncheon DESCRIPTION:Registration & Pricing\n \nThe 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. \nEvent Sponsors\nChamber Champions \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \nBusiness Expo Series Sponsor \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 \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Aaron Einfeld\, PhD \n \n \n \n Founder & Executive Coach \n \n \n \n Awaken Leadership Solutions \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Aaron Einfeld\, PhD\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Adam Dee \n \n \n \n Vice President of Actuarial for Health Plan Business (HPB) \n \n \n \n Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Adam Dee\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Aida Dismondy \n \n \n \n Senior Counsel \n \n \n \n Warner\, Norcross + Judd\, LLP \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Aida Dismondy\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Al Vanderberg \n \n \n \n County Administrator \n \n \n \n Kent County\, MI \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Al Vanderberg\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Al Vanderberg \n \n \n \n County Administrator/Controller \n \n \n \n Kent County \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Al Vanderberg\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Alberto Garza \n \n \n \n Owner \n \n \n \n General Wood Shop \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Alberto Garza\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Alex Belding \n \n \n \n CRO & Co-Founder \n \n \n \n WebriQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Alex Belding\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ali Anderson \n \n \n \n CEO \n \n \n \n CraftCo. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ali Anderson\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Alison Mast \n \n \n \n Market Leader \n \n \n \n Marsh Risk \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Alison Mast\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Allie Walker \n \n \n \n President \n \n \n \n Truscott Rossman \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Allie Walker\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Amanda Hentsch \n \n \n \n Director of Membership \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Amanda Hentsch\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Amy Lee \n \n \n \n Executive Dean of Collaborative Programs \n \n \n \n Michigan Community College Association; Director\, EPiC Consortium \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Amy Lee\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Amy Rencher \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Amy Rencher\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Amy Taylor \n \n \n \n President \n \n \n \n Columbus Downtown Development Corporation and Capitol South \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Amy Taylor\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ana Espinoza \n \n \n \n Director of People Services \n \n \n \n Feyen Zylstra \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ana Espinoza URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/business-exchange-luncheon-4-16/ LOCATION:The Rutledge\, 120 Ionia Ave SW Suite 101\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Networking ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Graphic-BEX-4.16.26-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260415T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260415T123000 DTSTAMP:20260430T170407 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:20260129T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260129T100000 DTSTAMP:20260430T170407 CREATED:20250917T145038Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T135706Z UID:10000373-1769671800-1769680800@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:138th Annual Meeting: The State of Grand Rapids Business DESCRIPTION:For 138 years\, your Grand Rapids Chamber has been the voice of West Michigan business. \nWhat to expect\n\nNetworking opportunities with over 1\,000 Chamber members and business leaders.\nBACK BY POPULAR DEMAND – Dr. Paul Isely will deliver regional economic data and forecasts to guide your planning and\nstrategy.\nExpert discussion and insights into the issues shaping the business climate.\nAfter the meeting\, connect with peers during networking at the Chamber offices.\n\nWhat else? Get an inside look at how the Chamber is:\n\nAdvocating and acting to drive policies and initiatives that strengthen West Michigan’s business climate and shape its future.\nConvening\, connecting\, and catalyzing by uniting people\, ideas\, and opportunities to ignite collaboration and innovation.\nServing as your trusted source and partner with tools\, expertise\, and training to help businesses navigate challenges and seize growth opportunities.\n\nKeep the Momentum Going: The Meeting After the Meeting\nAfter the Annual Meeting\, keep the energy going by working from our collaborative workspace for the day. The Steelcase Conference Center and additional workstations will be open and ready for you. \nEnjoy hand-served coffee\, meet our members\, and learn how to engage with the Chamber. Whether you’re a member or not\, join us to connect\, collaborate\, and network in the heart of downtown. \nThe Meeting After the Meeting\n10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.\nGrand Rapids Chamber (250 Monroe Ave NW\, Suite 150) \n\nRegistration & Pricing\n\n\nCorporate Table\n \nEvent Agenda\n7:30 a.m. – Registration & Networking \n8:00 a.m. – Welcome & Breakfast \n8:35 a.m. – Opening Remarks from 2025 Board ChairJen Crowley\, Owner & CMO\, Highland Group \n8:40 a.m. – Remarks from Chamber President & CEORick Baker\, Grand Rapids Chamber \n8:50 a.m. – Remarks from 2026 Board ChairJeff Lumpp\, President\, Hylant \n9:00 a.m. – Data on the State of the RegionDr. Paul Isely\, Seidman College of Business\, GVSU \n9:35 a.m. – Key Takeaways for the Business Community\nLauren Davis\, President\, Greater Michigan\, Huntington Bank\nPaul Isely\, Associate Dean and Professor of Economics for the Seidman College of Business\, Grand Valley State University\nAndy Johnston\, Sr. Vice President with your Grand Rapids Chamber \n10:00 a.m. – Adjourn \n10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. – The Meeting After the Meeting (250 Monroe Ave. NW\, Suite 150) \nOur 2026 Speakers\nHear from thought leaders and industry experts shaping the future of business in West Michigan and beyond. Our 2026 speakers will share fresh insights\, bold ideas\, and real-world strategies to help you lead with confidence. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Andy Johnston \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President of Strategic Initiatives \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Andy Johnston\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Dr. Paul Isely \n \n \n \n Associate Dean and Professor of Economics \n \n \n \n Seidman College of Business at Grand Valley State University \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Dr. Paul Isely\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jeff Lumpp \n \n \n \n President \n \n \n \n Hylant \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Jeff Lumpp\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Jen Crowley \n \n \n \n Owner & Chief Marketing Officer \n \n \n \n Highland Group \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Jen Crowley\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Lauren Davis \n \n \n \n President\, Greater Michigan Region \n \n \n \n Huntington Bank \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Lauren Davis\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 \nEvent Sponsors\nPremier Sponsor \n\n \nEvent Underwriter \n\n \nTrustee Sponsor \n\n \nProduction Sponsor \n\n \nBusiness Partner \n\n \nExecutive Sponsors \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \nLead Supporters \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \nChamber Champions \n\n \n\n \n\n \nMeeting After The Meeting Sponsor \n\n \nMedia Sponsor URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/annual-meeting-2026/ LOCATION:DeVos Place – Steelcase Ballroom\, 303 Monroe Ave NW\, Grand Rapids\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Annual Events & Summits ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Graphic-Annual-Meeting-1.29.26.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20251008T153000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20251008T173000 DTSTAMP:20260430T170407 CREATED:20230523T142423Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T141522Z UID:10000121-1759937400-1759944600@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:36th Annual ATHENA Awards Celebration DESCRIPTION: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 8! \n\nRegistration & Pricing\n \nATHENA Leadership Award Finalists\nThe 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 finalists are: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Aaron Einfeld\, PhD \n \n \n \n Founder & Executive Coach \n \n \n \n Awaken Leadership Solutions \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Aaron Einfeld\, PhD\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Adam Dee \n \n \n \n Vice President of Actuarial for Health Plan Business (HPB) \n \n \n \n Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Adam Dee\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Aida Dismondy \n \n \n \n Senior Counsel \n \n \n \n Warner\, Norcross + Judd\, LLP \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Aida Dismondy\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Al Vanderberg \n \n \n \n County Administrator \n \n \n \n Kent County\, MI \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Al Vanderberg\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Al Vanderberg \n \n \n \n County Administrator/Controller \n \n \n \n Kent County \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Al Vanderberg\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Alberto Garza \n \n \n \n Owner \n \n \n \n General Wood Shop \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Alberto Garza\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Alex Belding \n \n \n \n CRO & Co-Founder \n \n \n \n WebriQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Alex Belding\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ali Anderson \n \n \n \n CEO \n \n \n \n CraftCo. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ali Anderson\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Alison Mast \n \n \n \n Market Leader \n \n \n \n Marsh Risk \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Alison Mast\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Allie Walker \n \n \n \n President \n \n \n \n Truscott Rossman \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Allie Walker\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Amanda Hentsch \n \n \n \n Director of Membership \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Amanda Hentsch\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Amy Lee \n \n \n \n Executive Dean of Collaborative Programs \n \n \n \n Michigan Community College Association; Director\, EPiC Consortium \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Amy Lee\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Amy Rencher \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Amy Rencher\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Amy Taylor \n \n \n \n President \n \n \n \n Columbus Downtown Development Corporation and Capitol South \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Amy Taylor\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ana Espinoza \n \n \n \n Director of People Services \n \n \n \n Feyen Zylstra \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ana Espinoza\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award Finalists\nThe 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 finalists are: \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Aaron Einfeld\, PhD \n \n \n \n Founder & Executive Coach \n \n \n \n Awaken Leadership Solutions \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Aaron Einfeld\, PhD\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Adam Dee \n \n \n \n Vice President of Actuarial for Health Plan Business (HPB) \n \n \n \n Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Adam Dee\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Aida Dismondy \n \n \n \n Senior Counsel \n \n \n \n Warner\, Norcross + Judd\, LLP \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Aida Dismondy\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Al Vanderberg \n \n \n \n County Administrator \n \n \n \n Kent County\, MI \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Al Vanderberg\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Al Vanderberg \n \n \n \n County Administrator/Controller \n \n \n \n Kent County \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Al Vanderberg\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Alberto Garza \n \n \n \n Owner \n \n \n \n General Wood Shop \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Alberto Garza\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Alex Belding \n \n \n \n CRO & Co-Founder \n \n \n \n WebriQ \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Alex Belding\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ali Anderson \n \n \n \n CEO \n \n \n \n CraftCo. \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ali Anderson\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Alison Mast \n \n \n \n Market Leader \n \n \n \n Marsh Risk \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Alison Mast\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Allie Walker \n \n \n \n President \n \n \n \n Truscott Rossman \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Allie Walker\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Amanda Hentsch \n \n \n \n Director of Membership \n \n \n \n Grand Rapids Chamber \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Amanda Hentsch\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Amy Lee \n \n \n \n Executive Dean of Collaborative Programs \n \n \n \n Michigan Community College Association; Director\, EPiC Consortium \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Amy Lee\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Amy Rencher \n \n \n \n Senior Vice President \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Amy Rencher\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Amy Taylor \n \n \n \n President \n \n \n \n Columbus Downtown Development Corporation and Capitol South \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Amy Taylor\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n Ana Espinoza \n \n \n \n Director of People Services \n \n \n \n Feyen Zylstra \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n ABOUT Ana Espinoza\n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \n \nATHENA Organizational Leadership Award\nThe 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. This year\, the recognition goes to Huntington Bank! \n\n \nEvent Sponsors\nPremier Sponsor \n\n \nLead Supporters \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \n\n \nChamber Champions \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\n \nProgram Underwriters \n\n \n\n \n\n \nFinalist Reception \n\n \nPrint Sponsor \n\n \nLinen Sponsor URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/athena-awards-celebration/ LOCATION:JW Marriott Grand Rapids\, 235 Louis St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Annual Events & Summits,Talent & Human Resources,Talent Development ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Graphic-ATHENA-Awards-Celebration-10.08.25-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250805T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250805T180000 DTSTAMP:20260430T170408 CREATED:20250115T184233Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T141545Z UID:10000352-1754409600-1754416800@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:OutPro Celebration: The Business of Belonging DESCRIPTION:OutPro Celebration: The Business of Belonging\nJoin OutPro and the Grand Rapids Chamber for The Business of Belonging\, an engaging and purposeful evening celebrating the contributions of LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs\, professionals\, and business leaders who are shaping the economic landscape of West Michigan. \nThrough inspiring storytelling\, meaningful networking\, and community celebration\, this event will spotlight queer-owned businesses\, honoring their innovation\, resilience\, and impact. Together\, we will reaffirm our shared commitment to cultivating a thriving\, inclusive regional economy. \nA live DJ and photo booth will be provided! \nWhether you are a business owner\, ally\, or advocate\, The Business of Belonging offers an opportunity to connect\, be inspired\, and champion a culture where belonging fuels prosperity. \nEvent Agenda\n4:00 p.m.  Registration & Networking \n4:30 p.m.  Welcome\nRodney Savage\, Grand Rapids Chamber \n4:35 p.m.   The Impact of OutPro\nJeffrey Sorensen\, Lake Michigan Credit Union \n4:40 p.m.  Song by Charlee Vargas\, Fifth Third Bank \n4:45 p.m.  Economic Impact of LGBTQ+ Community \nJordoun Eatman\, Experience Grand Rapids \n5:00 p.m.  Fireside Conversation – Highlighting the LGBTQ+ Business Journey \nWayne Bersano\, Huntington Bank\nAlberto Garza\, General Wood Shop \n5:15 p.m.  Fireside Conversation – Building a Stronger Michigan Together\nJeff Donofrio\, Business Leaders For Michigan\nRick Baker\, Grand Rapids Chamber \n5:35 p.m.  Closing Remarks & Networking Resumes \nRodney Savage\, Grand Rapids Chamber \n6:00 p.m.  Adjourn  URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/outpro-forum-2025-08-05/ 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/2025/01/OutPro-Celebration-Graphic-.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250721T070000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250721T180000 DTSTAMP:20260430T170408 CREATED:20250115T185543Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T141558Z UID:10000358-1753081200-1753120800@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:The Chamber Open DESCRIPTION:The Chamber Open brings together community leaders for an unmatched day on the green\, featuring 18 holes of golf and high-impact networking. \nThis year\, we’re teeing up something new: the Grand Rapids Chamber’s first-ever double shotgun outing! With both morning and afternoon flights available\, attendees can choose whichever time works best for them and make twice as many connections at our combined lunch reception. \nSchedule:\n7:00 a.m. – Golfer Arrival & Buffet Breakfast (morning flight)\n7:30 a.m. – Morning Flight Shotgun Start\n11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. – Buffet Lunch (all flights)\n1:00 p.m. – Afternoon Flight Shotgun Start \nRegister today and join us on the green! URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/the-chamber-open/ LOCATION:The Golf Club at Thornapple Pointe\, 7211 48th St SE\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49512\, United States CATEGORIES:Annual Events & Summits,Economic Growth END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250618T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250618T180000 DTSTAMP:20260430T170408 CREATED:20250508T150121Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T141607Z UID:10000366-1750262400-1750269600@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:100 in 100 Celebration DESCRIPTION:100 in 100 Kent County\nCelebrating Progress. Fueling Solutions. \nJoin us for a happy hour as we celebrate the milestones of 100 in 100 Kent County—a bold initiative to house 100 of our community’s most vulnerable individuals. This celebratory fundraiser will bring together business leaders and community champions committed to ending chronic homelessness in West Michigan. \nA brief program will highlight some of the biggest wins and honor the people who led the work. \nThere is no cost to attend\, but a suggested donation of $100 is greatly appreciated and sponsorships are available to invest in long-term housing solutions that work. All funds received will go to supporting individuals experiencing chronic homelessness access housing (first month’s rent\, security deposits and more). Your support powers permanent progress—and helps ensure that 100 is just the beginning. \n????️ June 18 \n???? The ROC @Rockford \n????️ Tickets and Sponsorship Opportunities Available \nTogether\, we can make home a reality—for everyone. URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/100-in-100-celebration/ LOCATION:The ROC at Rockford Construction\, 601 First St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49504\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/100-in-100-Celebration-e1746715515193.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250610T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250610T130000 DTSTAMP:20260430T170408 CREATED:20230523T142423Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T141616Z UID:10000104-1749540600-1749560400@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:West Michigan CEO Summit DESCRIPTION:At the CEO Summit\, we will explore “A Resilient Edge” – how top executives sustain momentum\, sharpen strategic focus\, combat stagnation\, and lead their teams to achieve more. \nSuccess demands more than vision- it requires purposeful action and execution to resist complacency. It’s about cultivating meaningful goals and driving forward with determination\, agility\, and adaptability. \nThrough inspiring keynotes\, practical insights\, and peer-driven discussions\, you’ll learn how “A Resilient Edge” can position you and your company to thrive in a world where continuous improvement is key. \nSee our event recap\n\nCEO Summit Recap URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/west-michigan-ceo-summit/ LOCATION:JW Marriott Grand Rapids\, 235 Louis St NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Annual Events & Summits,Economic Growth END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250311T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250311T113000 DTSTAMP:20260430T170408 CREATED:20230523T141614Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T141628Z UID:10000113-1741678200-1741692600@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:Grand Rapids Policy Conference DESCRIPTION:The Grand Rapids Policy Conference is a platform to discuss Grand Rapids’ future and the issues we must tackle as a community to support a vibrant future. Local\, regional\, and national thought leaders will share insights into the policies to create a thriving and prosperous West Michigan for all. \nDuring this event\, attendees will hear from the Mayor of Grand Rapids and his vision for the city. Michigan House of Representatives Speaker Matt Hall will discuss key policies that matter to West Michigan. Sam Cummings of CWD will highlight an innovative approach turn office space into housing. Special guest Marc Eichenbaum will travel in from Houston\, Texas\, to share insights into ending chronic homelessness. The full agenda is below. \nThis event is for business leaders\, policymakers\, community stakeholders\, and anyone invested in shaping the future of Grand Rapids and West Michigan. \nConsider purchasing a Member Corporate Table \n\nIncludes 10 tickets\, preferred seating\, and your logo displayed on the table.\nIndividual tickets are available as well.\nClick here to purchase tickets.\n\nEvent Agenda\n7:30 a.m. – Registration\, Networking\, & Buffet Breakfast \n8:00 a.m. – Welcome from the Public Policy Committee Chair\nHannah Naltner\, Senior Vice President of Organizational Strategy and General Counsel\, RDV \n8:05 a.m. – Driving Growth & Opportunity: Policies for Vibrant Business Environment\, a Talented Michigan\, and a Place to Call Home\nJoshua Lunger\, Vice President of Government Affairs\, Grand Rapids Chamber \n8:15 a.m. – Remarks from the Mayor\nDavid LaGrand\, Mayor\, City of Grand Rapids \n8:30 a.m. – A Conversation with the Mayor\nModerated Q&A by Rick Baker\, President & CEO\, Grand Rapids Chamber \n8:45 a.m. – Bridge to Our Future: The Community Master Plan\nMark Washington\, City Manager\, City of Grand Rapids \n9:05 a.m. – Policy in Practice\nBen Greene\, Chair of Board of Commissioners\, Kent County \n9:15 a.m. – Break & Networking \n9:30 a.m. – Discussion: State Policies that Matter to West Michigan\nSpeaker Matt Hall\, Michigan House of Representatives \n9:55 a.m. – Introduction of Housing Policies Moving the Needle\nBrooke Oosterman\, Executive Director\, Housing Next \n10:05 a.m. – Converting Office to Housing\nSam Cummings\, Managing Partner\, CWD \n10:50 a.m. – Houston’s Transformation in Solving Homelessness Conversation\nMarc Eichenbaum\, Former Special Advisor to the Mayor of Houston\, Texas \n11:30 a.m. – Closing Remarks & Call to Action\nRick Baker\, President & CEO\, Grand Rapids Chamber URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/grand-rapids-policy-conference/ LOCATION:Amway Grand Plaza Hotel\, 187 Monroe Ave NW\, Grand Rapids\, State\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Annual Events & Summits END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20250129T073000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20250129T100000 DTSTAMP:20260430T170408 CREATED:20241011T174109Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260119T141654Z UID:10000257-1738135800-1738144800@grandrapids.org SUMMARY:137th Annual Meeting: The State of Grand Rapids Business DESCRIPTION:Your Grand Rapids Chamber has been the voice of West Michigan business for 137 years. \nAt our 137th Annual Meeting\, you’ll hear about how the Grand Rapids Chamber is working to inform\, connect and advocate for West Michigan businesses and support business growth\, build strong relationships\, and create a thriving and prosperous West Michigan for all. \nThis event is nearly sold out! Save your seat now to join over 1\,000 community members and: \n\nGather insights\, data points\, and forecasts on the local economy.\nLearn what we can do to enhance community vibrancy and make West Michigan even better for business.\nNetwork with 1\,000+ Chamber members and business leaders.\nHear regional economic data and forecasts to help guide your planning.\nListen to expert discussions on critical issues like housing\, talent\, and removing barriers to growth.\n\n\nEvent Agenda\n7:30 a.m. – Registration and Networking\n8:10 a.m. – Welcome and Breakfast \nJoe Hune\, Vice President & President of West Michigan and Upper Peninsula\, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan \nTanell Hills\, Senior Community Liaison\, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan \n8:35 a.m. – Opening Remarks from your 2024 Board Chair \nJames Byl\, Founder/Owner\, Multi-Automatic Tool & Supply Co. \n8:40 a.m. – Remarks from your Chamber President & CEO \nRick Baker\, President & CEO\, Grand Rapids Chamber \n8:50 a.m. – Your 2025 Board Chair: Community Vibrancy and Your Business \nJen Crowley\, Owner & Chief Marketing Officer\, Highland Group \n9:00 a.m. – Data on the State of the Region \nDiana Lawson\, Dean\, Seidman College of Business\, Grand Valley State University \n9:10 a.m. – Key Efforts to Support Community Vibrancy \nHousing \nBrooke Oosterman\, Executive Director\, Housing Next \nLauren Davis\, President\, West Michigan Region\, Huntington Bank \nThe 100 in 100 Initiative \nJoshua Lunger\, Vice President of Government Affairs\, Grand Rapids Chamber \nCourtney Myers-Keaton\, Director\, Grand Rapids Area Coalition to End Homelessness \nTransformational Projects \nKyle Van Andel\, Foundation Associate/Outreach Director\, Van Andel Family Foundation \nTodd Custer\, President & CEO\, Custer \nA Strong Business Environment \nGreg McNeilly\, CEO\, The Windquest Group \nRick Baker\, President & CEO Grand Rapids Chamber \n9:55 a.m.- Final Words \n10:00 a.m. – Adjourn \nState of the Region Report\nRead about the key findings from the Grand Rapids Chambers 2025 report.\n\nClick Here URL:https://grandrapids.org/event/annual-meeting/ LOCATION:DeVos Place\, 303 Monroe Ave NW\, Grand Rapids\, MI\, 49503\, United States CATEGORIES:Advocacy & Government Affairs,Annual Events & Summits,Economic Growth,Talent & Human Resources,Talent Development ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://grandrapids.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Gtaphic-Annual-Meeting-BCBS-1.29.25.jpg END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR