Forsyth Forward
the momentum behind a thriving forsyth township
Tucked away in the beautiful forests and lakes of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, Forsyth Township — home to the communities of Gwinn, K.I. Sawyer, and Little Lake — is experiencing a renewed sense of purpose and connection. At the center of that momentum is Forsyth Forward, a revitalized organization combining the strengths of a chamber of commerce, visitors bureau, and community development hub.
Forsyth Forward’s mission is simple: help local residents, businesses, and visitors thrive. And the results are already starting to show.
What Forsyth Forward Brings to the Community
Supporting Local Business & Economic Growth
Forsyth Forward offers tools and support to strengthen the local economy. Through its business directory, networking events, and flexible membership program, the organization provides visibility and community support for:
- Small businesses
- Nonprofits
- Local entrepreneurs
- Residents invested in community development
Membership is intentionally accessible — $250 for businesses, $150 for nonprofits, and $50 for residents — ensuring that anyone who wants to be involved can be.
Investing in Community Projects & Infrastructure
Forsyth Forward is also focused on tangible improvements throughout the township. A recent example is the installation of free high-speed Wi-Fi at Peter Nordeen Park in downtown Gwinn, enhancing access for families, vendors, and community events.
Projects like these help make public spaces more welcoming, connected, and functional.
Promoting Tourism & Recreation
With its abundant lakes, vast forests, and quiet natural beauty, Forsyth Township is an ideal destination for outdoor recreation. Forsyth Forward highlights those assets — from trails to local shops — to support sustainable tourism and encourage more people to experience the area’s charm.
Whether you enjoy fishing, hiking, snowmobiling, or simply the warmth of small-town hospitality, the township is becoming an increasingly appealing place to visit or call home.
Strengthening Community Engagement
For nearly a decade, the local chamber of commerce had been inactive. Forsyth Forward stepped in to fill the gap, reconnecting residents, businesses, schools, nonprofits, and civic groups through a unified platform focused on collaboration and community leadership.
The result is a stronger, more connected Forsyth Township.
What This Means for Residents & Visitors
- Local businesses have more opportunities to grow and connect.
- Community spaces are becoming more accessible and enjoyable.
- Visitors have more reasons to explore the area’s outdoor recreation and natural beauty.
- Residents have a meaningful voice in shaping the community’s future.
Forsyth Forward encourages volunteerism, shared leadership, and community pride, helping people feel rooted and empowered.
Looking Ahead: A New Hub for Community Growth
With the grand opening of its new office in Gwinn in late 2025, Forsyth Forward is cementing its role as a central space for:
- Community gatherings
- Tourism support
- Business development
- Local project coordination
Their vision is ambitious yet grounded: a connected, inclusive, and vibrant Forsyth Township where people of all backgrounds can thrive together.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident, a new business owner, or simply passing through, Forsyth Forward is building a community where everyone has a place in the story.