Cornerstone Alliance

Marla Schneider, President and CEO of Cornerstone Alliance, started her job at Cornerstone in January of 2025. Cornerstone Alliance is the longest-running economic development program in the state of Michigan (30 years). They have a large staff with impressive certifications and education.

Cornerstone is the recognized Economic Development Organization (EDO) for Berrien County. They are funded 90% privately and 10% publicly. The 4 main pillars of the 2026 plan are: 

• Economic Development. Foster site readiness, business retention, expansion and attraction. 
• Community Development. Strengthen community prosperity through redevelopment, strategic growth, and placemaking that attracts talent and investment. 
• Housing Resource Development. Activate and advance housing development through coordinated leadership and strategic partnerships. 
• Entrepreneurial Services. Strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem with high-quality programming and intentional business counseling across the Tri-County area.