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

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 individuals from various entities in the economic development community to share ideas, strategies, and advocacy efforts.

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.

The agenda may be modified based on the availability of the Gubernatorial candidates. Check the website and review the Know Before You Go email when planning your day for the conference.

8:00 a.m. Breakfast/Registration

8:45 a.m. Welcome/Announcements

9:00 a.m. Inside the Capitol: Lobbyists on the Front Lines of Economic Development 
Knowing what to advocate for is only half the battle—knowing how to move ideas through the legislative process is what makes the difference. This panel of experienced lobbyists will offer a behind-the-scenes look at the policies, political dynamics, and strategies shaping economic development decisions today. Panelists will discuss current legislative priorities, emerging trends impacting growth and competitiveness, and practical tips for engaging effectively with lawmakers and staff. Attendees will gain insight into what resonates at the Capitol, how to frame economic development priorities for maximum impact, and how to stay engaged beyond Impact Day to drive real results.
Moderator: Meghan Swain, Executive Director, Michigan Economic Developers Association
Panelists: Sarah Hubbard, Principal, Acuitas, and Regent, University of Michigan
Rusty Merchant, Partner, McAlvey Merchant Associates
Kate Skaggs, President, The WinMatt Group
Terence Thomas, Co-Founder, Activate Detroit, Grosse Pointe City Council Member 

10:00 a.m. Break

10:15 a.m. Federal Legislation Impacting Michigan Economic Development 
Changes at the federal level are still occurring rapidly and could have a dynamic impact for years to come. The IEDC is advocating for economic development in 2026. Their policy priorities will be released early in the year, and Nathan will provide details on how you can partner with them to help ensure the necessary federal tools are available going forward.
Nathan Ohle, President and CEO, International Economic Development Council (IEDC)

10:45 a.m. Break

11:00 a.m. Michigan’s Economic Transition Strategy 
The Community & Worker Economic Transition Office is implementing a first-of-its-kind strategy that integrates workforce development, community resilience, and industrial competitiveness under a unified vision. By equipping workers with in-demand skills, helping communities move from crisis management to long-term planning, and ensuring small and mid-sized manufacturers can thrive in emerging markets, they are laying the foundation for a more prosperous and inclusive Michigan economy. Learn how your community can share in the benefits of this innovative plan.
Kate Bell, Deputy Director, Community and Worker Economic Transition Office, Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity (LEO)

11:30 a.m. Michigan Legislative Update
Bills continue to move through the State legislature that could significantly impact key economic development tools. Get the latest on bills and the potential impact if passed.
Quentin Messer Jr., Chief Executive & Economic Competitiveness Officer - Chair, Michigan Strategic Fund, Michigan Economic Development Corporation
Bree Anderson, Vice President of Legislative & External Affairs, Michigan Economic Development Corporation
Danielle McCann, Legislative Affairs Director, Michigan Economic Development Corporation

12:00 noon Gubernatorial Candidate Address
Mike Cox, Former Attorney General, State of Michigan

12:20 Lunch and Membership Meeting

1:00 p.m. Break

1:15 p.m. Meet the State Departments
As noted in the introduction, Michigan’s economic developers don’t wait for opportunity—they create it, leveraging every resource available to keep moving forward. Impact Day will provide key updates from our State of Michigan department leaders, ensuring you have the latest strategies and tools to build on your strategies.
Moderator: Sarah Gregory, Vice President, Strategic Partnerships and Talent, Detroit Regional Partnership
Speakers: Dr. Tim Boring, Director, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD)
Rachael Eubanks, State Treasurer, State of Michigan
Jen Flood, State Budget Director, Michigan Department of Treasury
Phil Roos, Director, Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE)

2:15 p.m. Michigan’s Two-Tiered Economy: What the Data Reveals
Michigan’s labor market is sharply divided. According to The Michigan Economy: The Jobs Michiganders Work, and What They Pay, six in ten jobs pay less than $60,000, and most higher-wage jobs require a bachelor’s degree. Nearly 90% of jobs paying over $100,000 are in high-BA attainment occupations, yet many of those roles are not in STEM fields. This session highlights eight key takeaways from the data, challenging common narratives about blue-collar and STEM careers and revealing where Michigan’s true wage opportunities lie. Participants will gain a clear, data-driven understanding of the state’s workforce landscape and its implications for talent, education, and economic development strategy.
Lou Glazier, President, Michigan Future

3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. Legislative Reception
After a powerful day of insights and advocacy during Impact Day, we invite you to continue the conversation at the Legislative Reception. Connect with state leaders, celebrate Michigan’s momentum, and share the stories that move our communities forward. This engaging evening offers a unique opportunity for MEDA members and policymakers to come together, exchange ideas, and build relationships that strengthen economic development across our state.

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

Reception Sponsor

Enbridge exists to fuel people’s quality of life. We operate across North America and beyond—powering industry, empowering society and safely delivering reliable, affordable sources of energy through our four core businesses: liquids pipelines, natural gas pipelines, gas distribution and storage, and renewable energy. These activities deliver a variety of economic benefits and fuel people’s quality of life, whether they’re:

• well-paying jobs in towns and cities,
• tax revenue that can help build schools, hospitals and roads,
• procurement spending that stimulates local economies, or
• grants and volunteer labor for community-strengthening projects.

At Enbridge, we're continuing to invest in modern energy delivery infrastructure to sustain access to secure, affordable energy and building on more than a century of operating conventional energy infrastructure and two decades of experience in renewable power. We’re advancing new technologies including hydrogen, renewable natural gas, and carbon capture and storage. We’re proud to deliver economic benefits in the states where we do business, like Michigan. Learn more at enbridge.com. Contact: Paul Meneghini, Manager, Community Engagement, Great Lakes Region, Enbridge, PH: 218-348-8139.

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.

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.