Economic Summit 2026

The Jackson County Chamber of Commerce and Accelerate Jackson County are proud to present the 2026 Economic Summit, bringing together business executives, elected officials, educators, community leaders, and decision-makers for an engaging discussion on Michigan's economic future.

🗓️ Thursday, October 15, 2026
⏰ 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM
📍 American 1 Event Center
128 W. Ganson St., Jackson, MI 49201

The Economic Summit is one of Jackson County's premier business events, providing valuable insights into the trends, policies, and strategies shaping our state's economy. This year's program will focus on "Michigan in a New Era," exploring what it will take to make Michigan a Top Ten state for jobs, talent, and economic growth.

Featured Speaker

Jeff Donofrio
President & CEO, Business Leaders For Michigan

Jeff Donofrio is President and Chief Executive Officer of Business Leaders For Michigan, where he works with CEOs from the state’s leading employers to advance a shared goal: making Michigan a Top 10 state for jobs, talent and a thriving economy.

Under his leadership, the organization has helped drive policy outcomes that strengthen Michigan’s economic foundation, including improving the business climate, expanding talent pathways and advancing K–12 education. He recently guided the development of Michigan in a New Era, the organization’s blueprint outlining actions to accelerate growth and opportunity across the state.

His career spans the private sector and public service, including leadership roles at Ford Motor Company and in state government and congressional offices. He previously served as Director of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity and as Executive Director of Workforce Development for the City of Detroit.

Jeff serves as Chair of the Michigan Workforce Development Board and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Launch Michigan. He grew up working in his family’s multigenerational small business and earned degrees from Michigan State University and Georgetown University.