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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 30, 2026
Bridgman, Michigan – The Greater Bridgman Area Chamber & Growth Alliance (Greater Bridgman CGA) will host its Annual Meeting on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at Haymarket Taproom. The event will celebrate the organization’s accomplishments in 2025, outline priorities for 2026, and bring together business leaders, partners, and community members for an evening of connection, reflection, and shared vision.
Continuing to build on the momentum established in 2024, 2025 was a year defined by collaboration and investment in our community. The Greater Bridgman CGA provided support for local entrepreneurs and workforce development by providing technical assistance in business planning, site selection, loan packaging, and incentive consulting. Over the past year, Greater Bridgman CGA has helped secure more than $2 million in grants that was used to leverage an additional $2 million in private capital funds for key development projects.
“As we close out 2025, we are proud to reflect on a year that strengthened our economy, enhanced our quality of life, and built lasting momentum for the future,” said Nancy Kiernan, Director of the Greater Bridgman CGA. “The progress we’ve made reflects Bridgman’s continued appeal as a place to invest, build, and dream.”
Tapping into Bridgman's community spirit the Greater Bridgman CGA hosted and supporting numerous events that brought people together. Those included the Celebrate Bridgman Street Dance, “Salute the Troops Playground” Fundraiser, and Holiday Village.
Comprised of 16 local business and community leaders from the City of Bridgman and Lake Charter Township who serve as the official Board of Directors, the Greater Bridgman CGA also maintains a strong regional and statewide presence through participation in economic development, housing, tourism, and chamber leadership conferences and events.
Looking ahead to 2026, the organization will focus on advancing additional small business and housing developments currently in the pipeline. “Together, we’ve built an incredible foundation—and the best is yet to come,” Kiernan noted.
Some of the overall 2025 Highlights include:
- $1.5 million MDOT Grant for reconstruction of Willard and Mathieu Streets, supporting $800,000 in private investment by Industrial Fabrication.
- $150,000 raised for the Salute the Troops Playground, including a $50,000 AEP grant and $50,000 from the Schalon Foundation.
- Support for new and expanding businesses such as Ace Hardware, Beachside Salt and Soul, Rising Kites Coffee Shop, Petals by Classic, and Corewell Health’s Walk-In Clinic.
- Awarding three scholarships to Bridgman High School students, including the new Classic Catering Culinary Arts Scholarship.
- Successfully relaunched the Celebrate Bridgman Street Dance with over 1,300 in attendance.
- Placemaking projects such as Michigan Logos Attraction Signage, Salute the Troops Playground, and Bridgman Courtyard – Phase II.
Event Details:
- Date: Thursday, February 26, 2026
- Time: 5:30 p.m.
- Location: Haymarket Taproom
- Cost: $25 per person (includes dinner; cash bar available)
Please RSVP by February 23 at tinyurl.com/BCGA25Annual.
For questions, contact Nancy Kiernan at nkiernan@bridgmancga.org or 269-285-2152.
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