2026 Economic Development Impact Day

Description

Economic Development Impact Day (formerly Capitol Day) is MEDA's legislative conference.

The title highlights the significant contributions of our members and the pivotal role of the legislature, administration, and state departments in driving successful economic development priorities in your communities.

Sessions will provide key local, state, and federal policy updates relevant to your work and other vital and timely topics.

Agenda

A schedule of sessions, speakers, and topics is in progress.

Agenda Preview

This past year has been filled with exciting milestones in Michigan’s economic development journey. From new local company locations and housing development ribbon cuttings to recognition for recreational projects and high-level collaboration, we’ve seen tremendous progress that strengthens our communities.

While challenges at the State and Federal levels have introduced uncertainty and slowed some momentum, Michigan’s economic developers remain resilient and proactive. They don’t wait for opportunity—they create it, leveraging every resource available to keep moving forward.

Now is the perfect time to connect with top leaders and change-makers in economic development—and that’s exactly what Impact Day is all about. This event brings together every person and entity in the economic development community to share ideas, strategies, and advocacy efforts.

MEDA’s Advocacy Committee is crafting an agenda that includes:

• Gubernatorial candidates
• Leading lobbyists for economic development
• State leaders who champion our needs every day
• Federal leaders focused on the big picture
  

We’ll also spotlight effective advocacy strategies for economic developers to strengthen our collective voice.

Michigan has navigated change before by working together—and we will do it again. Let’s keep building momentum and shaping a stronger future for our communities.

Confirmed Sessions and Speakers

Inside the Capitol: Lobbyists on the Front Lines of Economic Development 
Adrian Cazal, Member, Muchmore Harrington Smalley & Associates, LLC
Sarah Hubbard, Principal, Acuitas
Kate Skaggs, President, The WinMatt Group
Buzz Thomas, Principal, Activate Detroit

MEDC/MEDA Legislative Update
Meghan Swain, Executive Director, Michigan Economic Developers Association (MEDA)

Meet the State Departments
Dr. Tim Boring, Director, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD)
Jen Flood, State Budget Director, Michigan Department of Treasury
Phil Roos, Director, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)
Jonathan Smith, Senior Chief Deputy Director, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO), and Director, Community and Worker Economic Transition Office

Federal Legislation Impacting Michigan Economic Development 
Nathan Ohle, President and CEO, International Economic Development Council (IEDC)

Hotel Reservations

A limited number of Queen Rooms area available at the DoubleTree by Hilton Lansing on the night of 3/10/26 for $129++. Reserve using this link or by calling 517-482-0188. If calling, state that you are with the 2026 Economic Development Impact Day group and provide reservations under the code “910.” Reservation Deadline: February 9th

Thank You Sponsors

Partner Sponsor

The WinMatt Group is a strategic advisory and public affairs firm focused on relationship-driven results. With over 65 years of combined experience, a network of long-standing relationships with key decision makers, and a history of hustle, our team navigates complex legislative and regulatory environments to deliver exceptional results for our clients. Our results are built on the trust we’ve gained through our deep roots in Michigan’s government landscape, our reputation for adaptability, and an unshakable focus on solutions. We invite you to connect with us, because your wins matter. Contact Kate Skaggs, President, PH: 517-721-1441.

Sponsor this Event

One-Day Partner ($800) Per Event - Unlimited

• (1) Registration
• Excel List of Attendees
• Introduce Speakers (optional)
• Logo on Event Sponsor Screen Display
• Social Media Promotion – Paired
• Sponsor Spotlight* in Promotional Emails
• Sponsor Spotlight* on Event Webpage

*Spotlights include your logo linked to your website, a description up to 150 words, and contact information.

One-Day Event ($1,200) Per Event - Limited to (3) Per Event

• (1) Registration
• Address the Audience
• Excel List of Attendees
• Exhibit Table
• Introduce Speakers (optional)
• Logo on Event Handouts
• Logo on Event Sponsor Screen Display
• Social Media Promotion – Exclusive
• Sponsor Spotlight* in MEDA Newsletter for 1 Week
• Sponsor Spotlight* in Promotional Emails
• Sponsor Spotlight* on Event Webpage

*Spotlights include your logo linked to your website, a description up to 150 words, and contact information.

Legislative Reception ($2,500) – Limited to (1)

• (2) Registrations
• Address the Audience
• Excel List of Attendees
• Exhibit Table
• Logo on Event Handouts During Impact Day
• Logo on Event Sponsor Screen Display During Impact Day
• Social Media Promotion – Exclusive
• Sponsor Spotlight* in MEDA Newsletter for 1 Week
• Sponsor Spotlight* in Promotional Emails
• Sponsor Spotlight* on Event Webpage

*Spotlights include your logo linked to your website, a description up to 150 words, and contact information.

Contact Cassandra at cjorae@medaweb.org with any questions or to sponsor.

Our Commitment

MEDA is committed to making our event accessible to all attendees. If you require any accommodations to fully participate, please contact Catie at catie@medaweb.org or 517-241-0011 at least 5 days before the event. There is also an option to list your dietary restrictions on the registration form.