New and Notable: An Inside Look at the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference 

The 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference is right around the corner, and the Detroit Regional Chamber is excited to share some new ways it is enriching the attendee experience. Whether you’re a Conference veteran or first-time attendee, keep reading for everything you need to know. 

For the first time ever, the Conference will officially kick off its Theatre sessions on Tuesday, May 26. 

The opening session will start at 4:50 p.m. with Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Sandy K. Baruah and 2026 Conference Chair Bob Riney, President and Chief Executive Officer of Henry Ford Health.  

Also on Tuesday:  

• Mackinac Moment: Devin Scillian at 5:20 p.m. 

• A Conversation With Mike Duggan at 5:30 p.m. 

These Tuesday sessions will set the tone for the rest of the week and conversations focused on “A Quest for Common Ground.” Don’t miss out and arrive early to experience these key sessions firsthand. View the full 2026 Conference agenda. 

This year’s Conference agenda was redesigned to better meet attendee needs. Many attendees asked for more time to network and connect with each other, as well as different ways to hear from leaders on the Island. The Chamber answered.  

Additions to the 2026 agenda offer greater flexibility and more sessions with prominent leaders. Rather than attending all-day consecutive sessions, attendees will enjoy a flexible schedule with new social and networking activities at Grand Hotel and Mission Point Resort. 

These activities are woven directly into the agenda, making it easier than ever to meet new people, build lasting connections, and find common ground across the Island. Attendees can enjoy activities like: 

• A midday yoga class at Mission Point Resort 

• A mocktail and cocktail making class at Grand Hotel 

• A spa and sip experience at Mission Point Resort 

• A Euchre tournament at Grand Hotel 

• Morning runs, walks, or bike rides on your own or with a group 

• Lawn games and pickleball at Grand Hotel 

These events aren’t just a break from the action: they’re a core part of the Conference experience, offering attendees personalized opportunities that foster meaningful interactions and prioritize engagement in areas most relevant to their interests. View all social and networking activities on the agenda. 

In response to attendee feedback from previous years, this year’s Conference will introduce an improved lunchtime experience. Historically, boxed lunches were served on the Porch or in the Parlor. This year, lunches will be offered at multiple venues and will consist of upgraded hot buffet options featuring higher quality food selections. 

• Tuesday’s Welcome Lunch will be on the Grand Hotel Porch from noon to 3 p.m.  

• Wednesday’s lunch will take place from 1-2 p.m. at the Esther Williams Swimming Pool Deck and will offer a barbecue menu. 

• Thursday’s lunch will take place in the Grand Hotel Main Dining Room from 1–2:30 p.m., showcasing signature dishes from the Grand Hotel. 

• Lunch will also be available for attendees during the concurrent sessions at 1 p.m. on both Wednesday and Thursday. 

Michigan’s leaders will confront a central challenge during this year’s Conference: Michigan’s house is on fire, and the stakes are too high to ignore.  

Led by Journalist and Author Devin Scillian, multiple leaders will participate in “What’s the Fix (WTF)?” rapid-fire sessions focused on identifying the solutions needed to put the fire out in areas like AI and data centers, education, and economic development to drive progress and secure Michigan’s future. View the sessions on the agenda. 

With a refreshed agenda and a slate of curated social and networking activities, the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference is set to be one of the most dynamic and impactful gatherings the Chamber has hosted. Arrive early, and don’t miss your moment to connect, learn, and celebrate alongside fellow Chamber members and leaders across the Detroit Region, state, and nation.