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Press Releases

Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Celebrates the Next Center

Lakeshore Advantage is thrilled to announce the official opening of the Next Center, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to fostering innovation, economic growth, and community collaboration in the heart of Holland, Michigan. A celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony took place Wednesday, November 13 with the organization’s investors and project partners in attendance.

 

The three-story, 20,000-square-foot Next Center is set to become a cornerstone for West Michigan’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The center houses Lakeshore Advantage as its primary tenant, and in December will welcome a dynamic group of startup members and tenants that complement the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

 

 

“In this space, new businesses will be nurtured, and fresh ideas will take root,” said Lakeshore Advantage Board Vice Chair, Kyle Verplank. “On behalf of Lakeshore Advantage, we look forward to seeing the current and next generation of businesses grow and thrive right here in West Michigan’s Lakeshore Region.”

 

The Next Center will host programming to support a continued record of entrepreneurship in West Michigan’s Lakeshore Region on its multifunctional first floor. The space is purpose-built for up to 50 startup tenants and community education. The second floor is now home to Lakeshore Advantage, with additional office spaces leased by businesses supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses. The third floor, designed for flexibility, has office suites currently available for lease, offering established companies the chance to become a part of this vibrant ecosystem.

 

“This is an exciting day for Holland and the greater West Michigan region,” expressed Pete Beukema, Chairperson of the Holland SmartZone. “The Next Center embodies the spirit of innovation and community support that define our area. It’s not just a building; it’s a launching point for businesses and technologies that will shape our future.”

 

aerial view of furnitureThe Next Center’s multifunctional design is made possible by innovative, world-class office solutions from West Michigan-born, globally renowned companies, MillerKnoll andHaworth, and features Holland, Michigan-made sit-stand desks by ROL. All three organizations supported the Next Center’s interior design strategy and plan.

 

 

 

“MillerKnoll is proud to support the next generation of entrepreneurs in this region with our forward-thinking office furniture products,” said Lakeshore Advantage Board Chair and MillerKnoll CFO, Jeff Stutz. “West Michigan’s entrepreneurial spirit is on display at the Next Center.”

 

The Next Center’s location within the SmartZone brings it closer to resources and networks essential for entrepreneurial success. Lakeshore Advantage will continue to serve as a pivotal force in the economic landscape of Allegan and Ottawa counties.

 

“We are so glad this piece of land, which was underutilized for many years, is now being activated for the West Michigan economy,” said John Parker, Vice President of Project Development for EV Construction. “The EV Construction team has a passion for innovation and growth, so we used that energy to deliver a special project for Lakeshore Advantage. We want to thank the community, our trades, and all the project’s supporters for their participation in the project. This facility will help us all as Lakeshore Advantage continues to advocate for economic growth in the region.”

 

For information on leasing third-floor office spaces or inquiries about the Next Center, please contact Lakeshore Advantage.

 

About Lakeshore Advantage

 

Lakeshore Advantage is the economic GPS for West Michigan’s Ottawa and Allegan Counties. The nonprofit economic development organization grows primary employers at all stages of development, plans to ensure long-term economic health, solves economic challenges, and identifies opportunities.

 

Lakeshore Advantage was established in 2003 by forward-focused business and community leaders to assist primary employers—from startups to established global corporations—as they navigate growth in the lakeshore region.In 2023, Lakeshore Advantage supported 26 business growth projects consisting of $3.2 billion in private investment and $634.3 million in support funds leveraged in the two counties. Business growth projects resulted in 1,091 new and retained jobs.

 

In addition, Lakeshore Advantage provided economic support to 285 primary employers and 73 startup companies in the two counties.

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Press Releases

Gentex Announced as Presenting Sponsor for Inaugural SURGE Summit

Innovative partnership to elevate Tech Week GR event and fuel regional growth

 

HOLLAND, Mich. — Lakeshore Advantage is thrilled to announce that Gentex Corporation will be the presenting sponsor for the inaugural SURGE Summit on September 17, 2024. This event, held at Downtown Holland’s Warehouse 6, is a key part of the Tech Week GR series and aims to drive innovation and economic growth in West Michigan’s lakeshore region.

 

Gentex, a global leader in advanced technology solutions, has joined forces with Lakeshore Advantage to support the SURGE Summit. This partnership underscores both organizations’ commitment to fostering technological advancement and collaborative growth in the region.

 

“Gentex is honored to serve as the presenting sponsor for the SURGE Summit,” said Neil Boehm, Chief Technology Officer at Gentex Corporation. “We believe in the power of innovation to transform industries and communities. This summit offers a unique platform to connect with other pioneers and share ideas that can drive the next wave of technological progress. We are excited to support this initiative and engage with the vibrant community of innovators in West Michigan.”

 

The SURGE Summit will feature a dynamic agenda, including a keynote presentation, panel discussions, and product displays from local startups. Attendees will have the chance to network with industry leaders and gain valuable insights into innovation and entrepreneurship.

 

Jennifer Owens, President of Lakeshore Advantage, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration. “Partnering with Gentex as our presenting sponsor is a significant boost for the SURGE Summit,” said Owens. “Gentex’s reputation for innovation aligns perfectly with our goal of highlighting and supporting technological advancements in our region. We look forward to an inspiring event that will bring together visionary entrepreneurs and major corporations to drive meaningful change.”

 

The summit will kick off at 1:00 p.m. and is open to the public with prior registration. For more information and to secure your spot, please visit: WestMIBusinessAdvantage.com/surge_summit

 

 

people networking
Jordan Vanderham, CEO, Orindi

 

About Gentex Corporation:

Founded in 1974, Gentex Corporation (Nasdaq: GNTX) is a technology company and long-time supplier of electro-optical products for the global automotive, aerospace, fire protection and medical industries. The company uses its core competencies in
microelectronics, glass processing, chemical development, sensing, and more, to innovate electronic products that enhance vision, safety, and connectivity. To learn more, visit www.gentex.com.

 

About Lakeshore Advantage:

Lakeshore Advantage is the economic GPS for West Michigan’s Ottawa and Allegan Counties. The nonprofit economic development organization grows primary employers at all stages of development, plans to ensure long-term economic health, and solves economic challenges and identifies opportunities. Lakeshore Advantage was established in 2003 by forward-focused business and community leaders to assist primary employers—from startups to established global corporations— as they navigate growth in the lakeshore region.

 

In 2023, Lakeshore Advantage supported 26 business growth projects consisting of $3.2 billion in private investment and $634.3 million in support funds leveraged in the two counties. Business growth projects resulted in 1,091 new and retained jobs. In addition, Lakeshore Advantage provided economic support to 285 primary employers and 73 startup companies in the two counties.

 

Find out more at: www.lakeshoreadvantage.com.

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Press Releases

Lakeshore Advantage and The Chamber of Commerce Grand Haven, Spring Lake and Ferrysburg Announce Strategic Partnership

OTTAWA COUNTY, Mich. – Lakeshore Advantage and The Chamber of Commerce Grand Haven, Spring Lake and Ferrysburg (the Chamber) are pleased to announce a strategic partnership to enhance economic development efforts in Northwest Ottawa County. The two organizations have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to formalize their collaboration in supporting business growth and retention in our local communities and across the region.

 

This partnership brings together Lakeshore Advantage, the economic development organization contracted by Ottawa County, and The Chamber, which provides economic development services to five municipalities in Northwest Ottawa County, including the City of Grand Haven, Grand Haven Charter Township, the Village of Spring Lake, Spring Lake Township, and the City of Ferrysburg.

 

“By joining forces, we’re creating a more robust and cohesive approach to economic development in our region,” said Jennifer Owens, president of Lakeshore Advantage. “This collaboration reflects the interconnected nature of our regional economy and workforce, and will provide businesses with streamlined access to resources and investment opportunities throughout Northwest Ottawa County.”

 

A Framework for Economic Success

Key aspects of the partnership include:

  • Regular collaboration between teams to share project updates and discuss strategic regional initiatives;
  • Coordinated business retention efforts; and
  • Proactive sharing of economic development resources, events, and opportunities.

 

Mark Allen, president of The Chamber, added, “This partnership embodies the spirit of regional cooperation that is essential for sustainable economic growth. By leveraging our combined expertise and resources, we’re better positioned to retain businesses, attract new investment, and create employment opportunities for our communities.”

 

Both organizations are committed to working together to fulfill their obligations to the county and the individual communities in Northwest Ottawa County by utilizing each of their strengths while actively supporting one another.

 

About Lakeshore Advantage

Lakeshore Advantage is the economic GPS for West Michigan’s Ottawa and Allegan Counties. The nonprofit economic development organization grows primary employers at all stages of development, plans to ensure long-term economic health, and solves economic challenges and identifies opportunities. Lakeshore Advantage was established in 2003 by forward-focused business and community leaders to assist primary employers—from startups to established global corporations—as they navigate growth in the lakeshore region.

 

In 2023, Lakeshore Advantage supported 26 business growth projects consisting of $3.2 billion in private investment and $634.3 million in support funds leveraged in the two counties. Business growth projects resulted in 1,091 new and retained jobs. In addition, Lakeshore Advantage provided economic support to 285 primary employers and 73 startup companies in the two counties. Find out more at www.lakeshoreadvantage.com.

 

About The Chamber of Commerce Grand Haven, Spring Lake and Ferrysburg:

The Chamber of Commerce Grand Haven, Spring Lake, Ferrysburg has been serving businesses for 125 years since 1899. Through their vision of empowering businesses and building communities, The Chamber provides hyper local support, connections, access to resources and solutions for economic and business growth within Northwest Ottawa County. Find out more at www.grandhavenchamber.org.

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More Than A Car Wash, More Than A Restaurant

The Heart of Our Community’s Economic Health

 

Jennifer Owens, President, Lakeshore Advantage

 

As the leading organization responsible for guiding our community’s economic growth, I often hear from friends and neighbors about what they believe our community is missing. I appreciate the spirit of a previous Holland Sentinel article “We asked Hollanders what they’d like to see instead of car washes” that sought to spark a discussion on what other establishments might be desired in our area. However, it is equally important to highlight the significant economic impact behind the car washes you see and the cultural influence that leads to our many Mexican restaurants.

 

It might surprise some to learn that our community is home to one of the world’s leading providers of car wash systems—Tommy’s Express Car Wash. Tommy’s is more than a chain of carwashes. The company uses Holland as a research and development hub, allowing them to test their latest, best-in-class systems right here. Additionally, we host their national support center and manufacturing facilities, making this a key area for their operations.

 

The presence of Tommy’s has spurred growth among several local suppliers. Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to present an expansion proposal to the Zeeland Township Board alongside the CEO of Quest Car Care, one of Tommy’s largest suppliers. Quest, a locally-owned company, is investing in significant expansion, driven by the booming car wash industry, nationally and internationally. Expansions like this bring good jobs for community members and investment in local construction, real estate, legal, and finance industries, and beyond. This is just one example of how local businesses benefit from having a major industry leader like Tommy’s headquartered in our region. Our concentration of state-of-the-art car washes is not just a convenience but a true economic win-win for our community.

 

As for the abundance of Mexican restaurants, this is directly tied to our growing Latino population, which is a vital and vibrant part of our community. The types of international cuisines available in any area often reflect the demographics of the local population. As our community continues to grow, we might see an increase in the variety of cuisines in the region, such as Indian or Korean, to meet the evolving needs of our residents. The growth of our Latino population is something to celebrate, and I am particularly grateful for the fantastic food that our local Mexican restaurants provide.

 

What makes our community special is its diversity—both in the businesses that thrive here and the people who call it home. Every car wash, every restaurant, and every new face brings something valuable to our shared experience. I hope this perspective not only sheds light on the importance of our local car washes and restaurants but also inspires a deeper appreciation for the richness that each contributes to our community. Together, we can continue to build a welcoming, vibrant, and economically strong place that we are all proud to call home.

 

Jennifer Owens is the president of Lakeshore Advantage, the leading economic development organization for West Michigan’s Allegan and Ottawa counties.

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