In times of change, growth, and uncertainty, Lean leaders need more than tools, they need connection.
The 2026 Michigan Lean Consortium Annual Conference brings together continuous improvement professionals from across industries to explore what it means to navigate Lean while staying anchored in connection — to our purpose, our people, and our community.
Set against the waterfront backdrop of Muskegon, this year’s conference is designed to strengthen your technical skills while deepening the relationships that make improvement sustainable.
Two full days of breakout sessions and keynote speakers
Practical, real-world applications of Lean across industries
Actionable insights you can bring back to your organization immediately
Lean is a people system — and this conference is built to reflect that. Dedicated networking activities outside the classroom create space to:
Build authentic connections
Exchange ideas with peers
Continue informal learning in a relaxed setting
Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to Lean, you’ll find a welcoming, collaborative community ready to share and learn together.
“Go see” what excellence looks like in action. Our Gemba experiences provide the opportunity to:
Observe real processes in real environments
Ask thoughtful questions
Learn directly from organizations practicing continuous improvement
There is no substitute for seeing the work where it happens.
Because Lean is more than methodology; it’s a mindset strengthened through shared learning.
At the 2026 MLC Annual Conference, you’ll sharpen your skills, expand your perspective, and leave anchored in the relationships that help you lead continuous improvement with confidence.
Join us August 4–7, 2026, in Muskegon and navigate the future of Lean together.
Organizations that sponsor the Michigan Lean Consortium 2026 Annual Conference place their brand at the center of Michigan’s continuous improvement community.
With 120 expected attendees, 637 members, and a reach of 2,700+ subscribers and social followers, sponsorship offers strong visibility before, during, and after the event.
From vendor tables and stage recognition to social media spotlights, there are multiple ways to showcase your organization while supporting Lean across Michigan. Join us in Muskegon, August 4–7, 2026.
Check out Sponsorship Opportunities
The MLC has a reserved room block at the Delta Hotels Muskegon Convention Center for your convenience.
Conference Hotel Rate:
$199 per night
Available: Tuesday, August 4 – Friday, August 7, 2026
Reservation Deadline: Saturday, July 4, 2026 (Rooms are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.)
Reserve Online: Book your group rate for the Michigan Lean Consortium Conference
Reserve by Phone: Call 1-833-999-0181 and request the Michigan Lean Consortium Conference group block Group Code: MLE
We encourage attendees to book early to secure the conference rate. We look forward to welcoming you to Muskegon for a successful and engaging event!
At the MLC, we do our best to be inclusive at every level of experience, whether it’s a conference, Gemba walk or any other of our membership activities.
An individual or organizational membership gives you a year’s worth of great Lean learning and networking at low- or no-cost!
We understand that plans change. In the event you are unable to attend an event, refunds will be issued in full for cancellation refund requests received in writing via the events@michiganlean.org email at least seven (7) days before the event. Refunds will not be issued when less than a seven (7) day notice is provided. After submitting your cancellation refund request via email, please allow up to ten (10) business days for your refund to be processed. If the event is rescheduled, all purchases will be honored for the rescheduled event date. If the event is cancelled, all purchases will be refunded in full.
By registering for Michigan Lean Consortium (MLC) events, you acknowledge and agree that photographs, videos, and other media taken during the event may be used by MLC for business purposes, marketing, and promotional materials. If you have concerns, please contact the event organizer prior to the event.
