About Us

The Upper Peninsula Economic Development Alliance (UPEDA) provides a forum for our members to connect to accomplish economic development activities in our region. Our members work together to share information, provide ongoing education, and support businesses and entrepreneurial growth across the region. Our membership consists of private companies, utilities and local and regional economic development agencies throughout the Upper Peninsula. Our marketing campaign and information systems are funded through a matching-fund grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation.

UPEDA is a non-profit 501(c) 3 economic development organization, incorporated in 1999. We meet quarterly to participate in high-impact professional development and networking.

Board of Directors

Kathy Reynolds, Chair - Contact
CEO, Greater Munising Bay Partnership/Alger Co. Chamber of Commerce & Executive Director Munising DDA

Holly Peoples, Vice-Chair/Secretary
Director of Business Services, Upper Peninsula Michigan Works!

Tammy Henry, Treasurer
Executive Director, Luce County Economic Development Corporation

Debb Brunell
CEO, U.P. Michigan Works

Jerald Wuorenmaa
Executive Director, Western Upper Peninsula Planning and Development

Jeff Hagan
CEO, Eastern Upper Peninsula Planning and Development

Christopher Germain
CEO, Lake Superior Community Partnership

Zach Hautala
Director, Iron County Economic Chamber Alliance

David C. Paananen
Account Executive, Upper Peninsula Power Company

Ryan Soucy
Senior Community & Economic Development Planner, Central Upper Peninsula Planning and Development

Mission Statement

The mission of the Upper Peninsula Economic Development Alliance (UPEDA) is to enhance, link and promote the unique aspects of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula as the superior location in which to invest and conduct business.