The State of Economic Development event is more than just a gathering—it’s a powerful platform that highlights the momentum driving our region forward. This year’s event is designed to bring together influential private and public stakeholders for an afternoon of insights, inspiration, and actionable strategies that will shape the future of Southwest Michigan.
As we approach the event, we will gradually reveal the exceptional lineup of changemakers and visionaries who will share their expertise on the economic investments that matter most to your organization and our region.
Jonas Peterson
CEO, Southwest Michigan First
Jonas currently serves as CEO of Southwest Michigan First. In that role, he leads a talented team focused on strengthening the regional economy and positioning SMF as a national leader in economic and community development. Prior to joining SMF, Peterson served as President and CEO of Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance (LVGEA). During his tenure, LVGEA quickly become one of the largest and most influential nonprofit business associations in Nevada.
Dr. Christopher Thornberg
Founder, Beacon Economics
Dr. Thornberg is the founding partner of Beacon Economics and one of the nation’s leading economic forecasters. Known for accurately predicting the 2006 housing market collapse, the Great Recession, and more recently the post-COVID recovery, he has built a reputation for challenging conventional wisdom with data-driven insights. A former UCLA business school professor, Dr. Thornberg now advises private industry, governments, and public agencies worldwide. As a dynamic speaker, he inspires audiences to question popular narratives and focus on the economic realities that matter most.
Erica Orange
Partner, The Future Hunters
Erica is a Partner at The Future Hunters, one of the world’s leading futurist consultancies. With over two decades of experience decoding global trends, she helps business and policy leaders navigate uncertainty with clarity and purpose. Known for transforming complexity into clear, actionable insights, Erica empowers organizations to anticipate change and make confident, future-focused decisions. A dynamic keynote speaker and author of AI + The New Human Frontier: Reimagining the Future of Time, Trust + Truth (Wiley, 2024), she has keynoted over 300 events worldwide, including TEDx. Recognized among the world’s Top 50 Female Futurists, her work has been featured in Wired, NPR, and Bloomberg.
