MSU Extension: Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities

A small-town conference for small towns in a small town. In 2026, the communities of Newaygo and Fremont will host CEC on May 28-29; stay tuned for registration details!

Save the Date:

May 28-29, 2026

The Connecting Entrepreneurial Communities (CEC) is a community development program designed for stake-holders, economic developers, businesses, local government, educators, and non-profits to create a network that increases a community’s potential for entrepreneurship. The program culminates in an annual  conference held now in the spring in towns across Michigan where participants attend to share ideas and learn best practices.

We invite you to explore Newaygo County while you are here, find a locally owned place to stay at our below partners.

Welcome to Newaygo County!

We are ready to welcome you to Newaygo County where you will find both comfortable an convenient accommodations close to the conference site.

Newaygo County Michigan seal

Ed H. Hennings Park

Cabins Reserved for Conference: 4

Located in Newaygo

Email for reservation: asa.vermeulen@newaygocountymi.gov

Dragon Adventure Base Camp logo

Dragon Adventures Base Camp

Rooms Reserved for Conference: 6

Located in White Cloud

Email for reservations: mark@markdeering.com

Muskegon River Inn Logo

Muskegon River Inn

Rooms Reserved for Conference: 6

Located in downtown Newaygo

Call or text 307-690-4960 or email: info@muskegonriverinn.com

Harrington Inn Logo

The Harrington Inn

Rooms Reserved for Conference: 30

Located in Fremont

Call 231.924.3083 & reference CEC Conference

Trailside Logo

Trailside Motel

Rooms Reserved for Conference: 8

Located in White Cloud

Call 231.679.2198 and mention CEC for a discount. Rooms blocked until May 7, 2026

Gerber guest house logo

The Gerber Guest House

Rooms Reserved for Conference: 8

Located in Fremont

Call: 231-335-7530 or email: Gerbergh29@gmail.com