10/19/2026
“Michigan in a New Era: How do we make Michigan a top 10 state?”
That was the theme of the 2026 Economic Summit in Jackson. The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Accelerate Jackson hosted the event.
Business executives, community leaders, educators and others were at the American 1 Credit Union Event Center to listen to strategies and insight into our states economic future.
Jeff Donofrio, President and CEO of Business Leaders for Michigan talked about how to strengthen our local and state economies. Improving our educational system, offering more opportunities for young people, better and higher paying jobs, making it easier for businesses to operate and strategies to attract new businesses were some of the topics.
The importance of having a real plan and strategy was discussed. Jackson has done a great job with looking ahead. The Jackson Chamber, Accelerate Jackson, and other groups and community leaders have done an incredible job with Drive Jackson.
It’s a 20 year Vision Plan to revitalize the community, through better education, housing, job opportunities and strategies to get there. Partnerships and collaboration are the key to economic success. We’ll continue working together to keep our community and state strong!