Episode 3: Todd Brassard, VP/COO of Calumet Electronics

https://vimeo.com/569938701 Lead to Succeed: Conversations with U.P. Business Leaders is an interview series focused on leadership in the Upper Peninsula. Todd Brassard, VP/COO of Calumet Electronics, shares how a company located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has become a leader in the American electronics industry. For more information on Calumet Electronics, visit calumetelectronics.com. This series is […]
CEOs across region share expert experiences and advice on growth, culture, and finding success in U.P.
UPPER PENINSULA, Mich. (Tues. June 15, 2021) – InvestUP is pleased to announce its new series, Lead to Succeed: Conversations with U.P. Business Leaders. Hosted by Steve Arwood, InvestUP strategic advisor and former CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, the series will explore the opportunities and challenges of leading a business in the U.P. […]
Episode 2: Gina Thorsen, President of Stormy Kromer

https://vimeo.com/560028132/380dc19fd0 Lead to Succeed: Conversations with U.P. Business Leaders is an interview series focused on leadership in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Gina Thorsen, president of Stormy Kromer, offers a unique perspective of leading a business in the region as she transitioned into a role that came with the responsibility of upholding an iconic U.P. […]
Lead to Succeed: Conversations with U.P. Business Leaders Trailer
UP residents are doing their part to end the pandemic
Interviews with Dr. Lorinser, medical director of Marquette County Health Department, and LSSU President Dr. Hanley uncover some positive news about the U.P. COVID-19 status and progress in our business communities. UPPER PENINSULA, MI (April 29, 2021) — After a year of challenges and sacrifices, we’re all ready for a bit of good news. Recently, […]
ARPA allocations provide potential relief for UP businesses, communities, and non-profits
UPPER PENINSULA, MI (April 15, 2021) – On March 11, the $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) was signed into law. A number of ARPA provisions relate directly or indirectly to economic development and community development interests in the Upper Peninsula. Below is a very brief summary of these provisions. For more information on […]
Episode 1: Steve Hicks, CEO of JM Longyear

Lead to Succeed: Conversations with U.P. Business Leaders is an interview series focused on leadership in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Hosted by Steve Arwood, InvestUP Strategic Advisor and former MEDC Director, the first episode welcomes Steve Hicks, President and CEO of JM Longyear. For more information on JM Longyear, visit jmlongyear.com This series is […]
One Year Later: U.P. resilient through COVID-19
Despite challenges and changes, the U.P. persevered, relying on the grit it’s known for, its quality of life, affordability, and outdoor adventure and natural beauty. These attributes cultivated new business and attracted remote workers to the region and illustrated what makes the U.P. a truly special place to live and work. Even the Wall Street […]
140 jobs created at Dickinson Hospital during 2020
DCH strengthens local economy and healthcare for community. IRON MOUNTAIN (March 30, 2021) — With the creation of 140 new jobs in 2020, Dickinson County Healthcare (DCH) continues to increase patient volumes and meet the healthcare needs of the community. DCH new hires included health care providers in primary care, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, oncology, […]
While the U.P. serves as a safe haven for its residents, businesses face the same cyber risks as the rest of the nation

Did you know that there is a proven correlation between emotionally charged events and increases in cyberattacks? Following a year of dramatic elections, social movements and a tough pandemic, it is no surprise to cybersecurity experts that over 36 billion records were exposed to data breaches during the first half of 2020. Several U.P. businesses, […]