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
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Stories offer rich history of the Great Lakes’ legacy
Published on October 7, 2026
Transportation of goods, shipwrecks, commercial and recreational fishing, all tell the tale of human connection to the water. -
Four NCR-SARE grant opportunities to fund farmers, educators and researchers are open for applications
Published on October 5, 2026
Apply by December 3 for Farmer Rancher, Youth Educator, Partnership and Research and Education grants. -
MSU Extension and the Travel Industry Coalition of Michigan launch training program for Michigan’s tourism industry
Published on September 29, 2026
Learn more about the new Michigan Tourism Training & Engagement (MITTEN) program available for communities across the state. -
MSU Extension launches second partnership with Lapeer to continue capturing visitor impressions in their historic community
Published on September 29, 2026
This one-year pilot program seeks to understand strengths, weaknesses, and opportunities via QR codes around the historic community of Lapeer. -
Charter fishing plays a significant role in Michigan’s coastal economy
Published on August 28, 2026
Led by its captains, the charter fishing industry adapts to changing conditions.
Contact
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Andy Northrop, M.A.
Statewide Government and Community Vitality, Sustainable Tourism Educator
northro5@msu.edu
810-989-6331