Elizabeth Bernhard Named Executive Director of South Haven Regional Business Hub
The South Haven Regional Business Hub is pleased to announce the appointment of A. Elizabeth Bernhard as its new Executive Director, effective July 21, 2025. Bernhard brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit executive leadership, strategic partnership development, and small business support to her new role, and is poised to further the Hub’s mission of fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in the South Haven Region.
Elizabeth Bernhard is a driven and dedicated advocate for fostering strategic partnerships and driving innovative workforce solutions for employers of all industries. Most recently, as Executive Director of the Manufacturing Growth Alliance since July 2022, a statewide nonprofit supporting small to midsize manufacturers, she significantly impacted the manufacturing sector. During her tenure, she increased revenue by an impressive 150% in the first year and successfully administered a $4.9 million grant program, delivering over 160 grants to manufacturers across the state. Her leadership focused on strategic growth in Industry 4.0 technology adoption and in fostering diverse talent pipelines, while actively advocating for small- to medium-sized manufacturers with state legislators and industry leaders.
Her extensive background spans instruction and leadership in higher education, nonprofit leadership, seminar facilitation, and workforce development. She is deeply passionate about facilitating systems change by creating and convening mutually beneficial partnerships, including with business and industry, foundations, nonprofits, policymakers, and diverse stakeholders. Bernhard has a proven track record of creating effective solutions for businesses across various industries, including manufacturing, energy, healthcare, and construction. Her relevant experience includes U.S. Chamber of Commerce Talent Pipeline Management Certification, and she has been a presenter on “Systemic Redemption – Untapped Talent in Today’s Economy” at the CHRO Executive Summit. She is also a Western Michigan All-University Graduate Research Scholar and has delivered a keynote on “Illuminating the Voices in the Shadows: How Inclusion Impacts Employee Participation.”
“We are thrilled to welcome Elizabeth to lead the South Haven Regional Business Hub,” said acting Executive Director Debi Howe. “Her diverse experience and unwavering commitment to economic development and partnership-building will be invaluable as we continue to support and grow businesses in our region.”
The South Haven Regional Business Hub is dedicated to fostering the growth of small businesses and making the South Haven Region an attractive area for entrepreneurs to start and grow. The Hub offers a variety of programs and resources, including the Growth Series and Startup Series, to support business development. It connects business owners with essential resources for funding, mentoring, planning, networking, and launching new ventures, aiming to provide valuable advice, encouragement, and foundational support to help businesses thrive.
Bernhard’s leadership is expected to strengthen the Hub’s initiatives, expand its reach, and enhance its impact on the local business community.
About the South Haven Regional Business Hub: The South Haven Regional Business Hub is a vital resource for entrepreneurs and small businesses in the South Haven area. Committed to economic development, the Hub provides comprehensive support, resources, and programming designed to foster business growth, innovation, and sustainability within the region.
Learn more about the South Haven Regional Business Hub small business support services and get involved today for free.