Working together to achieve transformational change for Northwest Lower Michigan

Made up of over 40 business, governmental, and nonprofit partners, the Northwest Michigan Community Development Coalition collaborates to share information, align and leverage resources, and coordinate advocacy actions to drive positive economic, societal, and environmental improvements for our rural communities.

Our Shared Vision

By 2030, we will have created a more sustainable regional community by leveraging the collective power of cross-sector collaboration.

When we are successful, we will:

- See a larger share of state and federal resources flowing into our region.
- Foster deeper, productive connections with elected leaders and decision-makers to understand how they connect their work to projects and resources in their respective districts.
- Witness meaningful improvements on the shared outcomes prioritized in the Regional Community Scorecard, which supports progress toward a more thriving regional community.

ECONOMIC Spotlight: 20 Fathoms Picked for $1.6M in State Funds

Traverse City's 20 Fathoms secured $1.6M in state funding to boost local innovation and support rural startups. The grant will help launch a new fund, expand programming, and grow the region's tech sector. ... (More)

SOCIAL Spotlight: Up North Pride Opens New Community Center

Up North Pride has opened a new community center in Traverse City, creating a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ residents and allies to gather, connect, and celebrate diversity through events, resources, and support. ... (More)

ENVIRONMENTAL Spotlight: Local Organizations Fight Microplastics

Microplastics are now everywhere, including Northern Michigan. Local scientists and advocates are raising awareness, studying impacts, and pushing for solutions to protect our Great Lakes and freshwater ecosystems. ... (More)