In 2023, the LSCP completed an update to the organization’s strategic plan which will guide updates to the organization’s structure and programming through the end of 2026. The plan includes five external and three internal focus areas and associated actions for ensuring a vibrant local and regional economy. This page provides more information on the plan so our Partners know what to expect from our team to ensure investments are as impactful as possible. 

MISSION
The Lake Superior Community Partnership exists to ensure a vibrant local and regional economy. 

VISION
The LSCP is the most accessible and respected local economic development organization within Marquette County. The LSCP team is considered experts in their craft, well-connected, and responsive to the needs of its members, the business community, and local governments. It provides a variety of targeted and impactful services and resources ranging from business and community development to advocacy and networking. 

PARTNER EXPERIENCE
The LSCP is timely in its response, honest in its feedback, comprehensive in its approach, and a willing collaborator to help solve the matter at hand. Follow-up is provided with a positive, welcoming attitude. 

GUIDING PRINCIPLES:
Every day, the LSCP strives to deliver its services under these principles: 

• We are accessible
• We follow through
• We collaborate with partners
• We take initiative
• We’re nimble and adaptive
• We’re resourceful
• We invest in our organization
• We do the right thing

FOCUS AREAS
Focus areas identify broad topics or themes which the LSCP has identified as critical to achieving its mission. Each focus area has anywhere from 1 – 8 items the LSCP team intends to implement by 2026. Regular reports on progress toward these actions is provided to the LSCP Board of Directors on a quarterly basis.  

Retaining and Growing Existing Businesses
Business retention and growth are essential to any community. With, on average, more than 85% of new jobs created by existing businesses, the return on investment is significant. The LSCP will continue its long history of providing impactful, targeted business services and programming that help existing businesses thrive and ultimately grow into their next stage. In 2026, these services will continue to evolve to match the existing needs of the business community and be as efficient as possible to maximize staff time. 

Actions by 2026 

• Implement the Central Upper Peninsula Small Business Support Hub. 

• Implement a more detailed, targeted business retention and expansion visit strategy. 

• Enhance the content and ease in which the LSCP can perform economic impact studies. 

• Create a comprehensive system to share when businesses are ready to go public with selling/succession. 

Creating Vibrant Communities
Vibrant communities are essential for retaining and attracting population. From housing variety, childcare, good schools, and parks to lively small businesses, streamlined local permitting processes, and service clubs, the resources and assets available at the local level have an immense impact on our ability to succeed economically. By 2026, the LSCP will be recognized for taking a more active role in facilitating discussions and efforts to help local governments prepare for investment to retain and attract population. 

Actions by 2026 

• Hold an annual local government economic development summit. 

• Implement an annual developer feedback survey in partnership with local governments. 

• Develop additional capacity to support local governments with grants. 

• Enhance resources and expertise for supporting developers of all sizes.