Across the country, regions that thrive in today’s economy share a defining trait: they compete as one. They align their goals, share their strengths, and move forward together. In doing so, they unlock the kind of economic momentum no single community or organization can generate alone.
Berrien County, by contrast, has operated differently. Our municipalities—and the organizations that support them—have pursued growth independently, each working hard, but rarely working together. The result? Individual wins, but collective underperformance. The long-standing divide between “North County” and “South County” has only reinforced this fragmentation, preventing us from competing at the scale and sophistication required to win in today’s economy.
If Southwest Michigan is going to compete and win, this must change. I’m pleased to share that change is already underway.
A Historic Partnership
The Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber (SMRC) and the Greater Niles Chamber (GNC) have entered into a historic partnership that aligns our organizations both structurally and strategically. It marks the first time in Berrien County history that two chambers are joining forces at this scale, fundamentally transforming how we compete, advocate, and deliver results for our collective membership.
“For the Greater Niles Chamber, this decision was based on both vision and track record,” said GNC Board Chair Bryan Van Itallie. “Over the past several years, we have seen SMRC establish itself as a trusted and effective advocate—leading policy efforts while advancing economic and community development projects that have reshaped the region. Recognizing that unity is our greatest competitive advantage, we formalized a long-term partnership to achieve more together than either could alone.”
“We are honored to partner with the Greater Niles Chamber and build on the strong foundation they have created,” said SMRC Board Chair, Olivia Starks. “Together, we are creating alignment that doesn’t just serve today’s businesses, it sets the stage for a stronger, more resilient, and more united Southwest Michigan for decades to come.”
The Structure
Under the agreement, GNC retains its membership, board, and brand identity while integrating into SMRC’s operational infrastructure. This allows local leaders to stay focused on what matters most to Niles-area businesses, while benefiting from the scale, resources, and relationships that SMRC brings to the table.
Members can expect the same responsive, locally-focused service they’ve always received—now supported by greater institutional capacity and regional reach. Local events, networking, and community engagement remain anchored in Niles, while regional policy work, economic development initiatives, and state-level advocacy benefit from unified effort.
The Significance
Strategically, the alignment represents a deliberate move to end the long-standing divide between North and South Berrien County and build the kind of collaborative environment that defines successful regions across the nation.
Together, our nearly 1,000 members also place us among Michigan’s ten largest chambers, giving Southwest Michigan a stronger, more influential voice in Lansing, Washington, and beyond. That matters—not for its own sake, but for the doors it opens, the resources it unlocks, and the credibility it commands when advocating for our region’s priorities.
Meeting the Moment
The timing of this is no accident. The City of Niles, Niles Charter Township, and Bertrand Township are poised for significant growth. New housing, industrial expansion, and infrastructure investments are already reshaping the area’s economic landscape, and proximity to one of the largest metropolitan areas in Indiana makes it one of the most strategically positioned communities in Michigan. Aligning our efforts will help Greater Niles capitalize on the opportunities ahead.
“When businesses evaluate our area, it’s important they see it as part of a coordinated regional ecosystem, not an isolated community,” said City of Niles Mayor Nick Shelton. “SMRC’s commitment to regionalism makes them the right partner at the right time, and we’re grateful for
their partnership.”
Shaun Phy, President and Integrator at C&S Machine in Bertrand Township, reinforced that sentiment: “As a manufacturer competing on a global stage, a strong and unified business voice matters,” said Phy. “This partnership gives our region a clearer voice, sharper focus, and greater ability to attract the investment and talent we all need to grow.”
The Way Forward
Successful regions don’t succeed by accident. They succeed when leaders have the courage to put collaboration ahead of competition and make deliberate choices to align around shared priorities.
This partnership is one of those choices.
It signals that Southwest Michigan is serious about competing—not just with neighboring regions, but with communities across the Midwest and beyond. It is a decisive shift toward a unified, ecosystem-based approach to economic development—one where each community plays to its strengths, and together we compete as one.
As we demonstrate the power of this approach, we invite other communities and organizations to join us. The story of Berrien County is being rewritten. And this time, it will be a story of collective success.
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