Save the Date for 2026: May 28-29
We look forward to the 2026 Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities Conference hosted by the communities of Newaygo and Freemont, Michigan!
Now Accepting Session Proposals
Read about this award-winning conference in the Journal of Extension.
"Unique Conference Design Showcases Small Towns, Highlights Entrepreneurs, and Strengthens Capacity"
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The Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities (CEC) is a community development program designed for stake-holders, economic developers, businesses, local government, educators, and non-profits to create a network that increases a community’s potential for entrepreneurship. The program culminates in an annual conference held now in the spring in towns across Michigan where participants attend to share ideas and learn best practices.
Join other like-minded community leaders to learn exciting concepts and resources, and share best practices and fresh ideas to empower yourself and others to grow your local communities.
With breakout sessions embedded in shops and businesses throughout the downtown, the conference offers the unique opportunity to learn about and experience an entrepreneurial community.
We encourage you to invite your colleagues, co-workers, community leaders, entrepreneurs and stakeholders. Whether you work in economic development, business, arts and culture, government, philanthropy, the nonprofit sector, or education, you have an important part to play in supporting local businesses and entrepreneurial development in communities. There is something for everyone!
A small-town conference for small towns in a small town.
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