Connect Over Coffee

Connect Over Coffee at The Stray Join us for our monthly "Connect Over Coffee" networking event, where professionals from diverse fields come together to share ideas, forge new connections, and explore collaborative opportunities. This casual yet impactful gathering ......More

Connect Over Coffee at The Stray Join us for our monthly "Connect Over Coffee" networking event, where professionals from diverse fields come together to share ideas, forge new connections, and explore collaborative opportunities. This casual yet impactful gathering provides the perfect setting to engage in meaningful conversations over a cup of coffee, expand your network, and gain fresh perspectives from industry peers. Whether you’re looking to brainstorm new strategies, seek advice, or simply connect with like-minded individuals, our event promises to be both inspiring and productive. Don’t miss out on this chance to energize your professional journey and make valuable connections in a relaxed and welcoming environment.  

The Stray

The 60 Second Edge

In today’s fast-paced corporate environment, expertise is the baseline, and visibility is the catalyst. Research shows you have less than a minute to establish authority before an audience (or a room of peers) decides if you are a leader to follow or a voice to talk ov......More

In today’s fast-paced corporate environment, expertise is the baseline, and visibility is the catalyst. Research shows you have less than a minute to establish authority before an audience (or a room of peers) decides if you are a leader to follow or a voice to talk over. As a professional woman, your voice is your most valuable business tool. Yet, even high-performers often diminish their power through over-explaining, minimizing language, or hesitating in high-stakes moments. This is not a lecture on communication theory; it is a presentation designed to turn your introduction into an instrument of influence. Join Leslie Fiorenzo to move beyond "just showing up." You will learn a repeatable formula to craft a signature introduction that commands respect, invites curiosity, and ensures you are never the "best-kept secret" in the room again. Master the 60-Second Metaphor: Understand the psychology of first impressions and how to project "Ready-to-Lead" energy in the first 10 words. Build Your Signature Formula: Draft a concise, high-impact introduction that pivots from what you do to the value you provide. Command the Floor: Learn physical and vocal techniques to "hold your space," effectively managing interruptions and maintaining authority under pressure. Create Your Visibility Roadmap: Walk away with a concrete personal action plan to apply your 60-second signature in your next meeting, interview, or presentation.

Gypsum Grill & Event Center 330 Covell Ave. SW Grand Rapids, MI 49534 United States

Division Avenue Business Association

Join us at The Stray on the second Thursday of every month to meet as a community of businesses and discuss topics of importance to the businesses along the Division Avenue business district.

The Stray 4253 Division Ave S Suite A, Grand Rapids, MI 49548

West Michigan M365 User Group 2026 Q2 Meetup

Date: Thursday, June 11, 2026 Time: 11:00am – 1:30pm (includes Q&A time) Cost: Free + Lunch included Location: In Person @ Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce Address: 250 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503   ......More

Date: Thursday, June 11, 2026 Time: 11:00am – 1:30pm (includes Q&A time) Cost: Free + Lunch included Location: In Person @ Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce Address: 250 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503   Register Today   The Q2 West Michigan M365 User Group Meetup continues the momentum from Microsoft 365 Community Day. Whether you joined us at Community Day or couldn’t attend, this meetup helps you catch up, go deeper, and stay current – building on the tools, themes, and real-world questions that emerged. Alongside networking over lunch, we’ll dive into Practical Copilot and Personal Productivity.  Building a useful Copilot Studio agent — from idea to deployment Copilot Cowork & Researcher multi-model features (what’s new and when they matter) Boosting productivity with Microsoft 365 using tools you already have A strong focus on foundations: email, tasks, notes, focus, plus just enough Copilot to work smarter without adding complexity Featured presenters are, Ben Rupp (InsITe) and Mike Bodell (Bulb Digital) For this Q2 Meetup: Lunch is sponsored by Bulb Digital Rental space is sponsored by InsITe As always, expect practical takeaways, honest conversations, and ideas you can put to work right away plus, time to connect with others across West Michigan who are navigating the same modern work challenge. Reserve your spot now and be part of the action!

Ribbon Cutting Grand Opening of LoNia's World Center

Step into a celebration of community, connection, and new beginnings at the Grand Opening of LoNia’s World Center. On June 11, 2026, our doors open wide to welcome you into a space built with heart—where adults with special needs, seniors, and veterans can gather, ......More

Step into a celebration of community, connection, and new beginnings at the Grand Opening of LoNia’s World Center. On June 11, 2026, our doors open wide to welcome you into a space built with heart—where adults with special needs, seniors, and veterans can gather, grow, and feel truly seen. This isn’t just a ribbon-cutting; it’s the start of a movement rooted in belonging and empowerment. From 1:00–4:00 PM, enjoy an afternoon filled with uplifting music, delicious refreshments, interactive games, and exciting prize giveaways. Explore our beautiful new center, meet the passionate team behind the mission, and experience firsthand the warmth and joy that define LoNia’s World. Whether you’re a community partner, a family member, a supporter, or a curious neighbor, you’ll feel right at home the moment you walk in. Join us at 3305 East Paris Ave SE in Kentwood as we celebrate this milestone together. Your presence helps us launch a space where every person is valued, supported, and encouraged to thrive.

3305 East Paris Ave SE Kentwood, MI 49512

Multi Chamber After Hours Event - Bay Pointe Lakefront Pavilion

Multi-Chamber Members-Only Networking Event Bay Pointe Lakefront Pavilion Thursday, June 11, 2026   RSVP by Tuesday, June 2 5:00pm - 7:00pm - Multi-Chamber Networking at the beautiful Bay Pointe Lakefront Pavilion Open house style. At the Bay Pointe Lakefron......More

Multi-Chamber Members-Only Networking Event Bay Pointe Lakefront Pavilion Thursday, June 11, 2026   RSVP by Tuesday, June 2 5:00pm - 7:00pm - Multi-Chamber Networking at the beautiful Bay Pointe Lakefront Pavilion Open house style. At the Bay Pointe Lakefront Pavilion, there will be complimentary appetizers and non-alcoholic beverages provided, along with a cash bar. Enjoy a fun, relaxing atmosphere with opportunities to WIN door prizes. No agenda - stay ten minutes or two hours, it's up to you! Bring business cards for networking.  During the event, guests can enjoy a variety of appetizers including Peach Bruschetta, Grilled Cheeseboard, Honey Ricotta Crostini, Prosciutto Wrapped Shrimp & Melon, Strawberry Cheesecake Shooters and beverages including a cash bar.              

About Bay Pointe Bay Pointe Inn is a family-owned, award-winning full-service resort nestled along the south shore of Gun Lake. Offering state-of-the-art meeting facilities, flexible event spaces, and relaxing outdoor settings, Bay Pointe creates a u

Speak with Authority Networking that Clicks

Networking does not have to feel awkward, forced, or transactional. Yet, many business professionals struggle because their introductions feel unclear or they overthink conversations instead of building real connections. If you’ve ever found yourself relying on a your j......More

Networking does not have to feel awkward, forced, or transactional. Yet, many business professionals struggle because their introductions feel unclear or they overthink conversations instead of building real connections. If you’ve ever found yourself relying on a your job title or a using industry buzz words that leave your listener confused this workshop is for you.  What You Will Learn In this interactive session, you'll create powerful introduction to use at your next networking event.  You will move beyond simply saying what you do and start sharing the problems you solve. The Hook to Action Framework: Master this structure that turns a 60-second intro into a memorable conversation. The Short Version: Learn the high-impact "You know how... What I do is..." script for quick interactions. Positioning Your Authority: Stop saying "I help" and start using powerful language that will reach your ideal clients. A Mindset of Curiosity: Discover how asking the right questions and being present can make networking feel natural rather than like self-promotion. Why Attend? Most people use their job title and company, making them instantly forgettable. This workshop changes that. You will leave with a clear introduction and the opportunity to practice in a supportive environment, ensuring you stand out, be remembered, and make genuine connections. About the Presenter Leslie Fiorenzo is a business presentation coach and voice confidence strategist dedicated to helping professionals stand out and lead with conviction. As the owner of Business Speaking Solutions, she empowers individuals to show up, speak up and own any room they walk into. Leslie is the creator of the 5 STEPS to Speaking Success™ framework and the author of Find Your Voice: Conquer Your Fear & Share Your Story with Confidence. With a mission to help you be remembered and make real connections, she provides the tools you need to stop overthinking and start speaking with authority Create your message. Captivate your audience. Cultivate relationships.

220 54th Street SW, Grand Rapids, MI 49548

3rd Friday Networking Luncheon South Kent Chamber

Looking for a place to meet and network with business owners and professionals? Where else can you exchange dozens of business cards in one place?     Join the South Kent Chamber of Commerce for an afternoon of networking! Bring plenty of business cards and prepa......More

Looking for a place to meet and network with business owners and professionals? Where else can you exchange dozens of business cards in one place?     Join the South Kent Chamber of Commerce for an afternoon of networking! Bring plenty of business cards and prepare to meet others looking to network and talk business in a warm and welcoming setting. Note: Online registration ends 24 Hours before event.  If you can’t register online, call our office for assistance.  We can’t guarantee placement for last minute registrants, but we will do all we can to get access for all who want to attend     Lunch Admission $30/Members  $40/Non-Members Literature on Tables $45 per time Includes lunch Showcase Table $80 per time Includes lunch   Please contact us if you would like any food or physical accommodation

Big E's Sports Grill 2325 E Beltline Ave SE Grand Rapids, MI 49546

Why Are Michiganâs Energy Prices So High?

An Introduction to Cost Drivers, Emerging Issues and How Utilities Are Regulated in Michigan Michigan Sustainable Business Forum is hosting a webinar to educate its members and stakeholders on the state’s increasingly complex energy market.  The expert panel will in......More

An Introduction to Cost Drivers, Emerging Issues and How Utilities Are Regulated in Michigan Michigan Sustainable Business Forum is hosting a webinar to educate its members and stakeholders on the state’s increasingly complex energy market.  The expert panel will introduce how utilities are regulated in the state, the factors that have historically driven local markets, and what sustainability professionals and business leaders should know about current events.   Featured Speakers: Erik Nordman, Associate Professor and Director of the Institute of Public Utilities at Michigan State University Mike Troupos, Vice President, Foresight Management Learning Objectives: MPSC 101:  Understand how the Michigan Public Service Commission regulates utilities in the state, including the process by which utility rates and standards are determined and its unique community of attorneys and advocates. Identify perceived and real influencers of energy costs in Michigan, from renewable energy portfolio standards to foreign wars. Discuss potential impact of hyperscale and conventional data center development to electric demand in the state.  How to source renewable energy and evaluate clean energy and energy efficiency opportunities in the current landscape.  Who Should Attend:  Sustainability practitioners at businesses and institutions, other business leaders and decision-makers in the public and private sector.  Anyone with an interest in Michigan’s energy and utility ecosystem or current events, including how data centers, electrification, and emissions reductions targets are progressing in the state.  About Our Training Partners:  The Michigan State University Institute of Public Utilities designs and delivers university-based continuing education programs to professionals in the utility policy community, including regulators, customer advocates, and industry staff.   Foresight Management provides comprehensive sustainability and energy management services to manufacturers, focusing on increasing operational efficiency, reducing carbon footprints, and lowering energy costs through data-driven strategies.  

Zoom https://misbf.org/blog/misbf_events/why-are-michigans-energy-prices-so-high/

Thirsty Thursday

Make meaningful connections, spark new ideas, and unwind with fellow professionals at Thirsty Thursday, one of our most popular networking events! Join us on Thursday, June 25th, from 4:30–6:00 PM at location tbd. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, great conversations, and......More

Make meaningful connections, spark new ideas, and unwind with fellow professionals at Thirsty Thursday, one of our most popular networking events! Join us on Thursday, June 25th, from 4:30–6:00 PM at location tbd. Enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, great conversations, and delicious drinks as you build relationships that strengthen our local business community. Whether you’re looking to grow your network, collaborate with other professionals, or just enjoy some after-work camaraderie, this is the place to be.

Location tbd