Jen Wakely, Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Communication Studies, Certified Professional Coach (CPC), Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner (ELI-MP)
Assistant Director of Community and Programming
Muskegon Innovation Hub
Gold Member
Original Join Date: 2026
Professional Bio
Serial entrepreneur, three-time founder, and community builder passionate about helping startups launch, grow, and succeed. I bring a high-energy, solution-oriented approach to everything I do — whether building ventures, designing entrepreneurial programs, or connecting founders with the resources and relationships they need to gain traction.
As Assistant Director of Community and Programming at the Muskegon Innovation Hub, I work to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem through strategic partnerships, business support programs, events, and access to capital. My work is driven by a commitment to helping innovative ideas flourish while creating meaningful economic and community impact.
Honors and Recognition include Muskegon County's 40 Under 40 Leaders, Movers & Shakers and Future 15 Up & Coming Leaders; three-time Agent of Change Award recipient from the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce; ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award finalist; and Outstanding Young Michigander through the Michigan Jaycees Foundation.
My leadership experience includes serving as a Councilmember and Commissioner for the City of Norton Shores and currently as Vice Chair of the Fruitport Village Planning Commission. Throughout my career, I have contributed to numerous organizations and initiatives focused on entrepreneurship, community development, leadership, and civic engagement.
Credentials include a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with an emphasis in Business Marketing, Certified Professional Coach (CPC), Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner (ELI-MP), Licensed REALTOR®, and Certified Personal Property Appraiser.
I am passionate about helping people, building connections, and creating opportunities that strengthen communities. Whether supporting entrepreneurs, leading initiatives, or bringing people together around a shared vision, I thrive on making waves and turning ideas into action.
As Assistant Director of Community and Programming at the Muskegon Innovation Hub, I work to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem through strategic partnerships, business support programs, events, and access to capital. My work is driven by a commitment to helping innovative ideas flourish while creating meaningful economic and community impact.
Honors and Recognition include Muskegon County's 40 Under 40 Leaders, Movers & Shakers and Future 15 Up & Coming Leaders; three-time Agent of Change Award recipient from the Muskegon Lakeshore Chamber of Commerce; ATHENA Young Professional Leadership Award finalist; and Outstanding Young Michigander through the Michigan Jaycees Foundation.
My leadership experience includes serving as a Councilmember and Commissioner for the City of Norton Shores and currently as Vice Chair of the Fruitport Village Planning Commission. Throughout my career, I have contributed to numerous organizations and initiatives focused on entrepreneurship, community development, leadership, and civic engagement.
Credentials include a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies with an emphasis in Business Marketing, Certified Professional Coach (CPC), Energy Leadership Index Master Practitioner (ELI-MP), Licensed REALTOR®, and Certified Personal Property Appraiser.
I am passionate about helping people, building connections, and creating opportunities that strengthen communities. Whether supporting entrepreneurs, leading initiatives, or bringing people together around a shared vision, I thrive on making waves and turning ideas into action.
Organization