Northwest Lower Michigan is well-known for its unique abundance of natural areas and its proximity to Lake Michigan.  This presents both tremendous opportunities for businesses as well immense responsibility for safeguarding our natural resources. As a result, specific economic development strategies related to renewable energy and water resources are imperative.

The 3E Initiative provides a platform for regional economic development planning in the areas of renewable energy and fresh water resources. Economic development organizations, local businesses and chambers of commerce, colleges and training providers, local governments, and workforce development agencies are partners in this initiative. Together, these partners will collaborate to create a regional economic development strategy relevant to Northwest Lower Michigan.