In this edition of Economic Development Spotlight, Nicole Wilson, Vice President of Economic Development at the Midland Business Alliance, sits down with longtime community leader Stacey Gannon for a conversation about career, community, leadership, and what comes next for the Great Lakes Bay Region.

Stacey reflects on a career path she describes as becoming an “accidental banker.” What began as an unexpected opportunity at 18 years old grew into a long career in banking and leadership, along with meaningful work in healthcare and the nonprofit sector, including helping support the Saginaw Art Museum.

Much of the conversation focuses on succession and developing the next generation of leaders. Stacey shares why established leaders must be willing to make room for new ideas, trust younger professionals, and pass along the knowledge and opportunities that were once shared with them. She points to programs and groups like MYPros as examples of the talent already prepared to help carry the community forward.

Stacey also looks beyond individual communities to the future of the entire Great Lakes Bay Region, emphasizing the potential that comes from greater collaboration, efficiency, and a willingness to work across traditional boundaries.

🎥 Watch the full Economic Development Spotlight for Stacey’s perspective on leadership, community, and why she believes the best is still ahead for our region.

In this special edition of Economic Development Spotlight, Nicole Wilson, Vice President of Economic Development at the Midland Business Alliance, sits down with Dan Dimitroff to talk about legacy, stewardship, and thinking differently about community growth.

From downtown redevelopment to conversations around AI and critical infrastructure, Dan shares a vision rooted in long-term responsibility — one that looks beyond short-term wins and asks how development can strengthen the community for generations to come.

The conversation explores everything from building tax base and tackling housing challenges to why Midland is uniquely positioned for future infrastructure investment when projects are done the right way. At the center of it all is a bigger question: how can growth create lasting benefit for the people and places that call this region home?

Listen to the full episode for a thoughtful conversation on community impact, conscious growth, and what it means to invest in Midland with purpose.

What does economic development really look like in Midland County—and why doesn’t your favorite national chain have a location here (yet)?

In this episode, Levi Black, Marketing Director at the Midland Business Alliance, sits down with Nicole Wilson, Vice President of Economic Development, to break down some of the most common questions they hear from the community. From business attraction and housing to talent retention and the realities behind bringing new companies to Midland, this conversation pulls back the curtain on how growth actually happens.

Whether you’re a business owner, resident, or just curious about what’s next for Midland, this episode offers a straightforward look at the strategy, challenges, and long-term vision driving economic development in Midland.