Written by: Nancy Kiernan
Chambers of Commerce have always played an essential role in fostering growth in the local business communities they serve, but as our economic landscape evolves, their role has expanded. Today, chambers across the country are realizing they are uniquely positioned to support communities through some of their biggest challenges, including population decline, housing, childcare access, and more.
In 2024, the Greater Bridgman Area Chamber & Growth Alliance (Bridgman CGA) set out to evolve its work program, shifting its focus to making Bridgman a place where people want to live, work, and visit. In March of 2024, they also evolved their partnership with the Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, allowing them to hire a dedicated director for the organization—me.
After starting as the new CGA director, I immediately began building connections with local businesses and priming the community for new investment. I also helped the community achieve “Engaged” status as part of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation’s “Redevelopment Ready Community” program.
In addition to working to attract new businesses to the community, the Bridgman CGA also supports existing businesses to help them grow and thrive. This includes providing technical assistance to local businesses like Lakeside Fit.
When Lakeside Fit outgrew their space in 2024, owners James and Lacy Lucas approached the Bridgman CGA for support. We were able to help the Lucas’ access capital resources, including a Commercial Rehabilitation Tax Abatement, to help them renovate their new space into a state-of-the-art fitness center.
Whether it’s a new space or a grand opening, the Bridgman CGA was there to celebrate the community’s progress. In 2024, the Bridgman CGA hosted five ribbon cuttings and groundbreaking ceremonies.
2024 was a year of change and progress for both the CGA and the community it serves, and there’s more to come in 2025. This year, we will see new projects that make the community more vibrant, new businesses that strengthen the local economy, and new opportunities to celebrate the successes of the Greater Bridgman community. And with additional CGAs slated to come online around the county, there will be even more to celebrate in the year ahead.
ActionLine is made in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.
