Schedule & Sessions
Join us for a day of inspiration, learning, and connection.
Doors Open & Registration
Networking, visiting exhibitors, grab food & beverage
Welcome
Hub and sponsors welcome, emcee guidance
Keynote Speaker
Innovator sharing insights
Break
Networking, visit exhibitors, move to breakout rooms
Session 1
The Importance of Systems: Building A Company That Lasts
Workshop Room BExplore how to build the systems, structure, and team needed to grow without losing control or profitability. Focus is on sustainable, long-term success.
VanDyk Mortgage Muskegon Convention Center
Funding Your Growth: Accessing Capital to Fuel Your Business
Workshop Room ALearn practical strategies to secure the funding your business needs to grow. This session covers different capital options, best practices for approaching investors or lenders, and actionable steps you can take to fuel your business.
VanDyk Mortgage Muskegon Convention Center
AI and Automation: Creating Competitive Advantage Today
Main StageDiscover how small and mid-sized businesses are leveraging AI and automation to reduce manual work, improve accuracy, and make smarter decisions. Walk away with practical strategies you can apply immediately.
VanDyk Mortgage Muskegon Convention Center
Break
Networking, visit exhibitors, move to breakout rooms
Session 2
Innovation Is Key: Increasing Your Market Value
Workshop Room BLearn how to stand out in a crowded market. This panel explores innovative, smart, practical strategies to increase visibility, build trust, and draw in the customers you actually want—without draining your time or budget.
VanDyk Mortgage Muskegon Convention Center
From Idea to Market: Turning Innovation Into Reality
Workshop Room ADiscover the roadmap for transforming a new concept into a commercially viable product right here in Michigan. This session walks through the full innovation lifecycle—from initial market validation to crafting a winning go-to-market strategy—while connecting you with state-backed tools, resources, and expert consulting through the Michigan SBDC, MEDC, and other partners to help launch and grow your business.
VanDyk Mortgage Muskegon Convention Center
The Future of Work: What’s Next Across Industries
Main StageExplore how work is evolving across industries—from shifting labor market trends to the growing impact of AI and automation. This session highlights key insights, emerging research, and why West Michigan is uniquely positioned to lead in the decade ahead, building on the region’s strong foundation of innovation and adaptability.
VanDyk Mortgage Muskegon Convention Center
Closing Remarks
Main seminar wrap-up, thank yous, and next steps
Close
Event concludes
The Venue
VanDyk Mortgage Muskegon Convention Center
The VanDyk Mortgage Muskegon Convention Center offers state-of-the-art facilities with stunning views of Lake Michigan. Our event will utilize the main ballroom for keynotes and multiple breakout rooms for workshops and panels.