Statewide Entrepreneurship Conference Coming to Newaygo & Fremont in May 2026

Newaygo County will take center stage this spring as it hosts the Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities (CEC) Conference on May 28–29, 2026, bringing together entrepreneurs, small business owners, community leaders, and economic development professionals from across Michigan.

The annual conference, organized in partnership with Michigan State University Extension, focuses on strengthening rural communities through entrepreneurship, collaboration, and innovative local strategies. The 2026 event will highlight Newaygo County’s unique assets, including its vibrant small businesses, natural resources, and strong community partnerships.

The conference is being hosted locally by the Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership (NCEDP), powered by The Right Place, in collaboration with a robust team of local partners, including the City of Fremont, City of Newaygo, River Country Chamber of Commerce, Fremont Area Chamber of Commerce, Newaygo County Tourism Council, Fremont Rec Center, and the Fremont Area Community Foundation.

“We’re excited to welcome attendees from across the state to experience Newaygo County firsthand,” said Mark Kraus, Economic Development Director with NCEDP. “This conference is a chance to showcase the entrepreneurial spirit and collaboration that make our communities strong, while also learning from others who are doing impactful work across Michigan.”

The two-day event will feature keynote speakers, breakout sessions, networking opportunities, and local tours designed to highlight the region’s business community and quality of life. Organizers anticipate 100–150 attendees, with participants traveling from throughout Michigan to attend.

Early bird registration is currently available through April 10, 2026.

The conference is made possible by generous supporters, including the Adama Family Gift Fund, Newaygo County Economic Development Partnership, Gerber Federal Credit Union, City of Newaygo, City of Fremont, River Country Chamber of Commerce, Fremont Area Community Foundation, ITC Holdings, Fremont Area Chamber of Commerce, CBD Store of Michigan, Muskegon River Inn, and Brandmark Goods & The Original Print Shop.

For more information or to register, visit https://www.canr.msu.edu/cec/