MSU Extension’s tourism team works statewide addressing community needs and interests in leveraging assets and resources for tourism development. A variety of programs exist to assist a community or region in becoming a destination or launch initiatives to strengthen existing tourism offerings. Programs are specifically designed to involve local leaders and stakeholders in a collaborative process for developing regional synergies and inclusiveness, exploring niche markets and/or capitalizing on the results of community assessments by first-time visitors. Ultimately, programs can form the basis for future development, spawn local leadership, and strengthen community vitality.
- Increase awareness of assets and opportunities.
- Increase knowledge of best practices, trends and changes.
- Develop new leadership roles, opportunities and action items.
- Foster new collaborations and plans among stakeholders to advance community driven tourism.
News
-
Registration now open for the 2026 MSU Extension Agritourism Summit
Published on March 26, 2026
The 2026 Summit will bring farmers, business owners, community leaders and tourism professionals together to explore collaborative strategies that strengthen Michigan’s agritourism economy. -
Land Division Act amendment allowing the creation of more parcels means all local governments should review development ordinances
Published on March 24, 2026
With the authority for local governments to allow and approve more divisions of land comes the responsibility to follow the master plan and make environmentally and financially sound infrastructure decisions. -
McCole elected President of the Tourism Industry Coalition of Michigan
Published on March 24, 2026
Dan McCole, Associate Professor in CSUS, was elected President of the Tourism Industry Coalition of Michigan (TICOM). TICOM is a statewide tourism industry association representing tourism businesses and trade associations. -
Communicating Through Conflict: Build skills for tough conversations
Published on March 2, 2026
Learn tools for navigating difficult conversations at work, in your community, and at home through these workshop opportunities in 2026. -
MSU Extension Tools for Effective Facilitation 2026 programs
Published on March 2, 2026
Two three-day facilitation workshops and one advanced four-day conflict-focused program available in 2026.
Contact
-
Andy Northrop, M.A.
Statewide Government and Community Vitality, Sustainable Tourism Educator
northro5@msu.edu
810-989-6331