Providing resources for communities and entrepreneurs to create and retain jobs in Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan & Emmet Counties.

Welcome Chris Bauer, AICP

June 20, 2022

The Northern Lakes Economic Alliance (NLEA) hired Chris Bauer, AICP as the Community and Economic Development Manager. Prior to arriving in northern Michigan, Bauer worked for the New York State Department of State in the Office of Planning… read more

NLEA Hosts MI STEM Forward Info Session

June 16, 2022

With the region, state, and nation facing a talent crunch, the NLEA is seeking innovative ways to support local businesses. On Wednesday, June 15th, the NLEA hosted a virtual info session for local businesses on MI STEM Forward. The program… read more

Successful Annual Northern Lakes Economic Symposium and Showcase

June 9, 2022

NLEA Symposium and Showcase networking

By: Sam Bailey, Strategic Initiatives Manager On Friday, May 13th , the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance welcomed approximately 250 attendees to the first annual Northern Lakes Economic Symposium and Showcase at Boyne Mountain Resort!… read more

May 2022 Newsletter

June 6, 2022

May 2022 NLEA news

2021 NLEA Annual Activities Report

May 15, 2022

2021 NLEA Annual Report PDF

Released May 2022, check out the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance Annual Activities Report for the year of 2021.   Click below for the full report: NLEA 2021 Annual Report    … read more

NLEA Newsletter April 2022

April 26, 2022

The Craft Beverage Industry: Riding the Wave

April 13, 2022

Bureau of Labor Statistics data reveals that the local craft beverage industry is outpacing national growth. 


By: Sam Bailey, NLEA Strategic Initiatives Manager Locals and visitors alike are familiar with the wave of breweries, wineries,… read more

NLEA March Newsletter

March 28, 2022

The Outdoor Recreation Industry: More Than the Last Dollar

March 17, 2022

Explore the evolving definition of the outdoor recreation industry and how the producers of outdoor recreation products can postively impact the region.


By: Sam Bailey, Strategic Initiatives Manager A driving force in the Northern Lowerread more

Northern Lakes Economic Symposium & Showcase

March 16, 2022

Join in the local economic and community development discussion with regional and state leaders.  The inaugural Northern Lakes Economic Symposium & Annual Showcase is a forum for local and state government officials, communityread more

Core Partners

Get the NLEA E-Newsletter
Be in the know about programs and events to benefit your communities and businesses.