Ely for Ely monthly meetings are organized by a committee of Ely-area nonprofit and business leaders who strive to increase our capacity by strengthening our social fabric. These meetings are also held in partnership with University of Minnesota Extension. Our 2026 gatherings will address three unique tracks: community leadership, business success, and community wealth succession.
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Monthly Leadership
& Succession Planning
Gatherings
Second Tuesdays of the Month
7:30am
Meeting duration varies
Location varies
Boundary Waters Connect facilitates an Ely for Ely planning committee made up of local nonprofit leaders, business owners, and community members to host a monthly networking and professional development program for Ely-area entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, and community members who are interested in making positive contributions to local affairs. ​​​​
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We will focus on a single track for a series of three consecutive gatherings in 2026. Extension collaborators will join us for the second meeting in each track -- which is why we are meeting longer on those months.
The first meeting in each series will frame the conversation, the second will be an in-depth look at the track while maximizing Extension research, insights, and data. The third gathering will consider local applications and strategies for the future. Details related to each gathering will be announced via email and on the BWC website in due time.​
Ely for Ely
Resource Center
Throughout the next several months, Boundary Waters Connect will be collaborating with peer organizations to compile Ely for Ely inspired resources. For example, we have put together a draft Ely Event Planning Guide, and we are currently working on putting together a list of Ely-area event venues, catering options, and Ely-specific marketing tactics.
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if you have an idea for a resource that you would like to access, or one that you would like to help us create, contact Lacey.
Ely for Ely
Workshop
Thursday, November 6, 2025
The annual Ely for Ely workshop is an opportunity for Ely-area community members, nonprofit, and business leaders to come together in considering our community succession planning.
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This year's program was presented in collaboration with the University of Minnesota Extension Center's Department for Community Development. The workshop included facilitated networking, a keynote address by rural sociologist Ben Winchester, and breakout sessions on topics related to community leadership, business succession planning, and the upcoming so-called transfer of wealth. ​
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