137th Annual Meeting: The State of Grand Rapids Business
Your Grand Rapids Chamber has been the voice of West Michigan business for 137 years.
At 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.
This event is nearly sold out! Save your seat now to join over 1,000 community members and:
- Gather insights, data points, and forecasts on the local economy.
- Learn what we can do to enhance community vibrancy and make West Michigan even better for business.
- Network with 1,000+ Chamber members and business leaders.
- Hear regional economic data and forecasts to help guide your planning.
- Listen to expert discussions on critical issues like housing, talent, and removing barriers to growth.
Event Agenda
7:30 a.m. – Registration and Networking
8:10 a.m. – Welcome and Breakfast
Joe Hune, Vice President & President of West Michigan and Upper Peninsula, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
Tanell Hills, Senior Community Liaison, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan
8:35 a.m. – Opening Remarks from your 2024 Board Chair
James Byl, Founder/Owner, Multi-Automatic Tool & Supply Co.
8:40 a.m. – Remarks from your Chamber President & CEO
Rick Baker, President & CEO, Grand Rapids Chamber
8:50 a.m. – Your 2025 Board Chair: Community Vibrancy and Your Business
Jen Crowley, Owner & Chief Marketing Officer, Highland Group
9:00 a.m. – Data on the State of the Region
Diana Lawson, Dean, Seidman College of Business, Grand Valley State University
9:10 a.m. – Key Efforts to Support Community Vibrancy
Housing
Brooke Oosterman, Executive Director, Housing Next
Lauren Davis, President, West Michigan Region, Huntington Bank
The 100 in 100 Initiative
Joshua Lunger, Vice President of Government Affairs, Grand Rapids Chamber
Courtney Myers-Keaton, Director, Grand Rapids Area Coalition to End Homelessness
Transformational Projects
Kyle Van Andel, Foundation Associate/Outreach Director, Van Andel Family Foundation
Todd Custer, President & CEO, Custer
A Strong Business Environment
Greg McNeilly, CEO, The Windquest Group
Rick Baker, President & CEO Grand Rapids Chamber
9:55 a.m.- Final Words
10:00 a.m. – Adjourn
