April 1, 2026
Investing in Literacy to Strengthen Michigan’s Talent Pipeline
At TalentFirst, early literacy is foundational to our mission of strengthening West Michigan’s long‑term...
3/4
Illuminate. Evaluate. Advocate.
TalentFirst is a catalyst working to ensure an ongoing supply of world-class talent for West Michigan. Composed of over 100 CEOs from the region, TalentFirst illuminates gaps, evaluates leading practices, and advocates for the implementation of those leading practices to make West Michigan a top 20% employment region.
Unmatched Collaboration for Regional Impact
TalentFirst serves 13 counties in West Michigan, engaging the industries, businesses, and nonprofit and educational institutions of each county. We chose this region — Allegan, Barry, Ionia, Kent, Lake, Mason, Mecosta, Montcalm, Muskegon, Newaygo, Oceana, Osceola and Ottawa counties — because it provides the talent pool from which local employers employ 83.6 percent of their workforce. We convene stakeholders from across sectors and facilitate efficient and effective collaboration.
Our Members
TalentFirst’s membership represents an array of the region’s business, educational, and civic leaders — a group as diverse as the region we serve. Together, they are a powerful force for meeting the talent demand of today and tomorrow.
Our Insights
- April 1, 2026
At TalentFirst, early literacy is foundational to our mission of strengthening West Michigan’s long‑term talent pipeline. Reading is not just an academic milestone—it is a...
- February 4, 2026
Michigan organization recognized for advancing early literacy, strengthening family connection, and expanding equitable pediatric support GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (Jan. 29, 2026) – Reach Out and...
- December 29, 2025
By Kevin Stotts, President, TalentFirst Across Michigan and the nation, young men are experiencing declining outcomes in education and workforce participation. They graduate high school...