Northern Lakes Economic Alliance • 231-582-6482
Andy Hayes, President of NLEA
In these uncertain times, we are working diligently to remain abreast of government assistance and updates regarding Coronavirus COVID-19.
Our staff team will be working closely with efforts lead by Networks Northwest to pull together all area economic development and business support agencies. This includes other economic development organizations in our region, NCMC, USDA, MI Works, MEDC, SBDC, etc.
The purpose will be to discuss strategies and collaborative programming to best propel the region and its communities out of this temporary economic downturn; and also collaborate on the creation and dissemination of a region-wide, macro-level economic recovery and development framework.
In an email from Matt McCauley, CEO of Networks Northwest he states: “Looking at the most recent county-level employment and unemployment numbers, it is likely that in a matter of a few days our unemployment rate has dramatically increased. This and other ripple effects of key policy decisions are now being felt in our businesses, communities, and in our homes. The economic challenges presented by these decisions will only increase and compound in the weeks and months to come. Our resiliency is being tested.
Therefore, I believe it is incumbent upon us to begin the process of preparing for our shared economic rebound. Everyone will play a part to be sure, but this message is directed to those organizations in the region that will likely play a forward role in how Northwest Michigan achieves its eventual recovery.”
We will keep you posted on the efforts ahead. In the meantime, stay safe, follow the CDC guidelines, and remain calm. We will come through this together!