Development News

Outdoor Innovation Pitch Competition open for applications

Applications are being accepted for the Outdoor Innovation Pitch Competition at Northern Michigan University in Marquette in February. 

Latest in Development News
Hoffman Family acquires Mackinac Island’s East Dock

“We are thrilled to add the East Dock as our newest acquisition in Michigan. We look forward to continuing the dock’s legacy of providing first-class service and facilities to guests for years to come,” said Jenny Gezella, president of Hoffmann Marine.

Iron Mountain hospital included in Marshfield, Sanford merger

“Our partnership brings together two organizations deeply committed to advancing health care for the people and communities we serve in rural America,” said Dr. Brian Hoerneman, president and CEO of the Marshfield Clinic region of Sanford Health.

Travel Marquette’s Estler named to Top 25 list

“I am truly honored to receive this recognition from HSMAI,” said Susan Estler, CEO of Travel Marquette. “Tourism marketing has been my passion throughout my career, and I’m grateful to join such a distinguished group of individuals. I look forward to continuing to serve Marquette County and to seeing our destination receive well-deserved national recognition.”

Natural Resources Trust Fund Board pushes for U.P. projects

“Outdoor recreation is not only vital to our state’s health and well-being – providing more access to restorative places and local parks – but it also supports the state’s efforts to attract and retain talent; support small businesses; and fuel innovation and economic prosperity,” said Brad Garmon, senior strategic advisor and executive director of the Michigan Outdoor Recreation Industry Office.

Billerud President and CEO Ivar Vatne and members of the Billerud management team present major upgrades for Upper Peninsula mills during Capital Markets Day in Sweden.
Investments bolster Billerud mills in Escanaba, Quinnesec

“We have an exciting plan in North America going forward, benefitting on sizable market opportunities, coupled with our attractive Midwest location, competitive assets and excellent paperboard capabilities in Billerud," said Ivar Vatne, president and CEO of Billerud.

Winter Energy Assistance Available through $1.57 million grant

“This is a one-of-a-kind program to help households who are not eligible for State Emergency Relief utility assistance. With low-income Michigan residents spending an average of 15% of their income on energy bills alone, this funding couldn’t come at a better time to help people in the UP,” said Kasey Grieco, program manager.

Howard Schultz (middle) speaks with students at a fireside chat in the Jamrich Hall Starbucks location after gifting $1 million to Northern Michigan University.
Starbucks’s Schultz gives back to alma mater Northern Michigan University

“Northern Michigan University transformed a young man from humble beginnings into a confident and ambitious entrepreneur,” said Howard Schultz, the former CEO of Starbucks and a graduate of NMU.

Marquette tech startup wins historic AI grant

“Michigan’s rural communities have told us time and again they struggle with awareness of federal funding sources available to them, and with the capacity to apply for funding when they become aware of it,” said Valarie Handy, USDA Rural Development Acting State Director for Michigan. 

Lake Superior State University was the first in the United States to offer a bachelor of science degree program in robotics engineering technology.
U.P.’s first prison collegiate education program starts in Chippewa County

“We are excited to collaborate with the Michigan Department of Corrections, whose support has been invaluable in making this transformative opportunity possible,” said Dr. David Travis, president of Lake Superior State University.

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