The 2024 Mackinac Policy Conference, themed “Bridging the Future Together,” will convene May 28-31 at the Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island, bringing together a diverse array of speakers and stakeholders to tackle Michigan’s most pressing issues.
Valerie Jarrett, CEO of the Barack Obama Foundation, and U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo are two of the most notable out-of-state headliners of the conference, but they will be joined by Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan, and other key leaders from business, education, and community development.
The four-day event will focus on strategic initiatives to drive Michigan’s growth, including attracting businesses and jobs, enhancing education outcomes, modernizing infrastructure, and harnessing innovation and equity.
Raimondo is expected to discuss federal efforts to boost economic development and competitiveness, while Whitmer will share her vision for Michigan’s future, highlighting initiatives to support small businesses, workforce development, and environmental sustainability.
Duggan will join a panel on urban revitalization, sharing Detroit’s success stories and challenges in revitalizing neighborhoods and promoting inclusive growth. Other sessions will delve into topics like AI and tech innovation, education reform, and addressing systemic inequalities.
The conference will also feature interactive workshops, networking opportunities, and a showcase of Michigan’s entrepreneurial spirit, highlighting local startups and innovators.
Organizers aim to foster collaborative solutions and action-oriented strategies, ensuring Michigan remains competitive and prosperous for generations to come.
As the state’s premier policy event, the Mackinac Policy Conference has a history of sparking meaningful conversations and driving progress. This year’s gathering promises to be a pivotal moment in shaping Michigan’s future.
The Michigan Chronicle will attend the conference all week, and will have exclusive interviews with leaders, including Gov. Whitmer, Michigan’s Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, and others.
To watch Michigan Chronicle’s exclusive coverage, visit michiganchronicle.com/mackinac/#.
For those who won’t be attending the conference, sessions will be livestreamed here: detroitchamber.com/mackinac-policy-conference/livestreams/.