In 2019, Networks Northwest partnered with Fourth Economy to map the economic development ecosystem in northwest Michigan. Working throughout the 10-county region, Networks Northwest observed a network of public, private, and non-profit organizations providing a robust array of economic development support. However, this perspective was not shared by individual organizations, and there was a lack of understanding about how organizations working on issues like housing or trails related to modern economic development, and to each other. Therefore, Fourth Economy used a survey and interviews to create an ecosystem map. We also worked with Networks Northwest to host a Regional Economic Diversification Summit, with participation from the U.S. Economic Development Agency. Participants from local government, economic, and community development organizations identified other relevant organizations and initiatives, and explored opportunities for collaboration and scaling successful programs.

Since then, Fourth Economy has worked with Networks Northwest on an Analysis of COVID-19 Impacts in Northwest Michigan and Recovery Roadmap (2020); the creation of Thrive North, a promotional commercial corridor and investment opportunities website (2021); the “Activate i4.0” Industry 4.0 Consortium and application to the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) (2021); and, most recently, an EDA Good Jobs Challenge Grant Application (2022).