FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 21, 2026

Media Contact:

Grace Maiullo

Lakeshore Advantage

616.772.5226 x203

Grace.maiullo@lakeshoreadvantage.com

Lakeshore Advantage's Nora VandenBrink Named to 

Crain's Grand Rapids Business 40 Under 40

HOLLAND, Mich. — Lakeshore Advantage announced today that Nora VandenBrink, vice president of entrepreneurship, has been named to Crain's Grand Rapids Business 40 Under 40 Class of 2026, recognizing emerging leaders who are making a significant impact across West Michigan.

VandenBrink was selected for her leadership in strengthening the region's entrepreneurial ecosystem and expanding opportunities for startup founders, innovators, and emerging talent throughout West Michigan. As vice president of entrepreneurship at Lakeshore Advantage, she leads the organization's entrepreneurship strategy and oversees SURGE, the region's startup and innovation ecosystem.

"Nora has a remarkable ability to bring people together around a shared vision and then turn that vision into meaningful results," said Mandy Cooper, interim president and senior vice president of strategic growth at Lakeshore Advantage. "She brings exceptional leadership and deep expertise to helping founders navigate challenges, connect to the right resources and relationships, and confidently move their businesses forward. We are thrilled to see her recognized by Crain's and grateful for the impact she continues to make."

Since joining Lakeshore Advantage, VandenBrink has helped expand the reach and impact of SURGE while building stronger connections among entrepreneurs, educational institutions, investors, mentors, and resource providers. Following SURGE's move into the Next Center, startup and collaborator membership increased by 60% in one year, reflecting growing engagement across the region's innovation community.

"Nora has helped make SURGE feel like a place where entrepreneurs can find the right people, practical support and real momentum,” said Tim Murphy, founder of Airdrop Gaming, the company behind Audio Radar. “She understands what founders are trying to build and has strengthened the connections that help startups like ours continue to gain traction and momentum. Her recognition is well deserved.”

VandenBrink has also expanded partnerships with organizations including Hope College, the Ottawa Area Intermediate School District, Michigan State University, and other education and ecosystem partners to create stronger pathways for students and emerging entrepreneurs. Through these collaborations, she has helped align mentorship, capital, technical assistance, and educational resources to make it easier for founders to launch and scale businesses in West Michigan.

"Entrepreneurship succeeds when communities invest in people, relationships, and opportunities to collaborate," said Nora VandenBrink. "I'm honored to receive this recognition and grateful to work alongside so many founders, educators, investors, and partners who are committed to building a strong future for West Michigan."

Under VandenBrink's leadership, entrepreneurship has become an increasingly important component of the region's economic development strategy, helping cultivate the next generation of employers and strengthen long-term economic competitiveness.

About Lakeshore Advantage:

Lakeshore Advantage is the economic development organization for Allegan and Ottawa Counties in West Michigan. Since 2003, it has supported the growth of primary employers—ranging from startups to global corporations—by solving economic challenges and fostering long-term regional prosperity. Learn more at www.lakeshoreadvantage.com.