2026 Grand Rapids Perspectives

12:05 - 1:00 P.M.

General Session and Lunch — Tax Panel: Turning the One, Big, Beautiful Bill into Savings Opportunities

Speakers: Elizabeth Potocki, Dan Lynn and Derik Rynearson (Doeren Mayhew)

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) introduces several planning opportunities for businesses with certain provisions taking effect in 2026, so which ones should you consider? Gain this answer and more as our panelists break down key OBBBA provisions, highlight planning opportunities and provide actionable steps individuals and businesses can take to optimize their tax position.

When Internal Controls Fail: Common Schemes and Risks to Businesses from Insider Threats

Speakers: Andrew Goetz, Jennifer McManus and Erin Lane (Miller Johnson)

What happens when the most significant risk to your business or client sits just three offices away? This attorney-led session explores how breakdowns in internal controls can create opportunities for insider misconduct, fraud and other forms of business risk. It examines common insider threat schemes, including embezzlement, expense manipulation, payroll fraud, data theft and circumvention of approval processes. The session also highlights simple preventive measures that can significantly reduce both the likelihood and impact of those schemes. Join Miller Johnson attorneys as they provide practical, real-world insights into common compliance lapses and steps small businesses can take to protect themselves against fraud and financial crime.

AI in Action: Insights, Demos and Automation to Drive Business Growth

Speaker: Mike Batroff (GRIFFIN Global Technologies, A Doeren Mayhew Company)

Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to drive the future of how business will operate, so what steps have you taken to adapt? In this session, we’ll explore practical ways organizations are using AI today to improve productivity, streamline workflows and support better decision-making. Walk away with tools and examples and a stronger understanding of the critical role AI can play in your overall business strategy.

The Future of Banking: Virtual Currency, AI and Strategic Transformation

Speaker: Tim Shangle (ChoiceOne Bank)

As virtual currencies and digital assets continue to reshape the financial landscape, banks face new opportunities and challenges in innovation, risk management and customer engagement. This session explores how AI is transforming the banking industry, from fraud detection and regulatory compliance to personalized services and operational efficiency. Attendees will gain practical insights into the intersection of AI and virtual currency, emerging trends in digital finance and strategies for positioning financial institutions to thrive in an increasingly digital economy.

M&A: What Buyers and Sellers Need to Know in 2026

Speakers: Janelle Darnell, Austin Koltonowski and Abi Adekoya (Miller Johnson)

M&A continue to be one of the most powerful paths for growth, succession and exit planning. Join Miller Johnson’s corporate M&A attorneys for a practical discussion on market trends, and legal and tax considerations shaping transactions in 2026. The session will cover current valuation trends, tax-efficient deal structures, common planning opportunities and pitfalls, and the growing importance of representations, warranties, indemnities and other risk-allocation tools. Attendees will leave with actionable insights to better structure transactions, reduce exposure, anticipate negotiation challenge, protect value and move deals across the finish line with greater confidence.

How to Boost Cash Flow Through Tax Strategy

Speakers: Mitchell Pepper and Ryan Schelhaas (Doeren Mayhew)

Rising costs and tighter margins continue to present challenges for companies. Strong cash flow management can be an elusive skill to perfect, especially in a constantly evolving economy. In this session, you will learn about how to use depreciation methods, cost segregation studies, accounting methods and available tax credits to boost cash flow. These practical strategies will help businesses become proactive about long-term success.

3:30 - 4:30 P.M.

Keynote Session: John Beilein, Building Consistently Successful Teams in a Changing World

Speaker: John Beilein

John Beilein is most well-known for his success as a basketball coach and building teams that claim championships. His leadership style translates to any environment where teamwork is required. Hear what it takes to build teams that can work together and win consistently. You’ll learn about methods of motivating individuals, developing talent and how to sustain your team’s success.

Doeren Mayhew is registered with the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) as a sponsor of continuing professional education on the National Registry of CPE Sponsors. State boards of accountancy have the final authority on the acceptance of individual courses for CPE credit. Complaints regarding registered sponsors may be submitted to the National Registry of CPE Sponsors through its website: www.nasbaregistry.org

“Doeren Mayhew" is the brand name under which Doeren Mayhew Assurance, PC and Doeren Mayhew Advisors, LLC and its subsidiary entities provide professional services. Doeren Mayhew Assurance, PC and Doeren Mayhew Advisors, LLC (and its subsidiary entities) practice as an alternative practice structure in accordance with the AICPA Code of Professional Conduct and applicable law, regulations and professional standards. Doeren Mayhew Assurance, PC is a licensed independent CPA firm that provides attest services to its clients, and Doeren Mayhew Advisors, LLC and its subsidiary entities provide tax and business consulting services to their clients. Doeren Mayhew Advisors, LLC, DM Payroll Solutions, Doeren Mayhew Capital Advisors and their subsidiary entities are not licensed CPA firms.

Agenda