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.