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.”
The 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.
Photo Caption: Left to right: Vince Bush, treasurer, Holland Charter Twp.; Ann Harten, vice president of global human resources, Haworth, Inc.; Menaka Abel, chief financial officer, Request Foods, Inc.; Michigan State Senator Roger Victory; Kyle Verplank, board vice chair, Lakeshore Advantage and executive chairman, Shape Corporation; Angela Huesman, chief operating officer, Lakeshore Advantage; Holland Mayor Nathan Bocks; Jennifer Owens, president, Lakeshore Advantage; Darryl Todd, business development manager, Michigan Economic Development Corporation; Amanda Chocko, director of entrepreneurship, 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.