Chamber Day
2026 CHAMBER DAY
June 17, 2026 | Michigan State Capitol
As the Michigan Chamber’s premier advocacy experience, this event convenes business leaders, government affairs professionals and local and regional chamber leaders for direct engagement with the thought leaders shaping Michigan’s future.
This isn’t just another networking event — it’s a day of conversation, insight and connection. Hear from lawmakers driving real change, explore solutions to workforce and regional growth challenges and gain insider perspectives on politics, policy and advocacy. Walk away informed, inspired and connected.
AGENDA
8:30 a.m. | Check-in Begins
8:45-9:30 a.m. | Capitol Connections and Conversations
Turn your morning into momentum! Network and connect with lawmakers, gubernatorial candidates, agency leaders and industry peers to start Chamber Day on a high note.
9:30 a.m. | Welcome Remarks
9:45 a.m. | Michigan at a Crossroads: Growth vs. The Power of "No"
Michigan’s economic growth is colliding with a rising wave of NIMBY (“Not In My Backyard”) activism and populist pressures. While state and local leaders push for bold expansion, local opposition is slowing housing, commercial and industrial projects essential for the state’s competitiveness.
This session examines how businesses and policymakers can navigate the delicate balance between state and local regulatory frameworks, zoning conflicts and the urgent need for growth – highlighting practical strategies, policy innovations and collaborative approaches that can help Michigan move forward.
Mike Alaimo
Deb Muchmore
Josh Hovey, APR
Christine Simon
Austin Fisher
10:30 a.m. | Networking Break
10:45 a.m. | Lawmakers Leading Change
A bipartisan group of legislative leaders will share their perspectives on the state’s top priorities – from strengthening the economy and growing the workforce to addressing regulatory, infrastructure and community challenges. Gain insight into the ideas, relationships and decisions driving change at the Capitol – and what they mean for Michigan’s businesses and communities.
Wendy Block
Sen. Sam Singh
Sen. Mark Huizenga
Rep. Bill G. Schuette
Rep. Angela Witwer
11:30 a.m. | Lunch and Networking
12 p.m. | It’s Just Politics… Until It Isn’t
What may seem like “just politics” often carries real consequences for Michigan’s economy, workforce and communities. In this twist of “It’s Just Politics,” hear from the popular radio show’s trusted voices as they go beyond the headlines to breaking down what’s really happening in Lansing, Washington, D.C. and on the campaign trail.
Expect sharp analysis, straight talk and insider perspective on the latest trends, tensions and turning points – and what they could mean for employers and the state’s future.
Rick Pluta
Zoe Clark
12:45 p.m. | Networking Break
1 p.m. | Rethinking the Talent Pipeline
Michigan’s workforce challenges are shifting. The market is no longer “everyone is hiring” but a tighter, skills-driven landscape where some employers continue to struggle to find qualified talent while others are moderating hiring amid economic uncertainty. Traditional talent pipelines, from higher education to technical training, are being tested as technology reshapes careers and skill-building.
This discussion explores how the talent ecosystem is adapting, where gaps remain and how public policy can strengthen pathways to well-paying jobs and long-term economic growth.
Lou Glazer
Dan Hurley
Nick Sanborn
Kevin Stotts
1:45 p.m. | Networking Break
2 p.m. | Politics, Perspectives and Prognosticating
Back by popular demand, this bipartisan panel of leading Capitol pundits will break down the latest trends shaping Michigan’s policy and political landscape. We’ll look at how public opinion is shifting, unpack what the numbers really mean and discuss what it could signal for the 2026 elections.
Adrian Hemond
Ron Fournier
Matt Resch
John Sellek
Jason Colthorp
2:45 p.m. | Sponsor and Concluding Remarks
3 p.m. | Program Concludes
2026 SPONSORS
For questions regarding 2026 sponsorship opportunities, contact Amanda Toy, VP of membership and partnerships.