THOMPSONVILLE -- Business and community leaders in Northern Michigan are trying to find ways to push through economic obstacles.

Thursday more than 100 company leaders and small business entrepreneurs from the Grand Traverse Region filled a hall at the Crystal Mountain Resort to touch base with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation. Many who attended hoped to come up with a game plan to grow their business.

Bay Supply & Marketing owner, Chuck Benson says "We all take risks everyday. I think we would like a clear message from our leaders so we know what risks to take."

The MEDC is pushing companies to come up with ways to diversify their product.

MEDC President, Greg Main says "The old Michigan economy is passing; we need to invent new Michigan economy."

With the auto industry on the decline in the state, the MEDC believes companies need to focus on alternative energy, the film industry, and tourism.

Benson says "All businesses want a clear perspective of what the next several months are, next several years for investment in people we have to know certainly what direction we're heading."

Another topic on many minds is the future of the Pure Michigan Ad Campaign. The award winning tourism promotion is at risk of losing funding. The $40 million spent last year, was a one time deal.

TC Area Chamber of Commerce VP, Tino Breithaupt says "It's extremely critical for Northern Michigan because they’re big beneficiary of that. People want to come here people want to spend family time up here."

Tourism brings in almost 200,000 jobs, that’s why state legislatures are discussing ways to pump cash in to the Pure Michigan Ad. One bill already passed by the Michigan House of Representatives is a plan to impose an extra fee on rental cars. 

Main says “This is a great part of state. This is what we sell when we try and lure people here. The quality of life is second to none."