MBN On The Road | Lisa Frohnapfel, Better Business Bureau MI, Detroit Policy Conference 2026

Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026, MBN was on the road at the Hudson's site in Detroit, for this year's Detroit Policy Conference, put on by the Detroit Regional Chamber. The event centered on the "New Leadership Era," featuring discussions on the city's future, economic development, and regional policy. This interview was with Lisa Frohnapfel, President and CEO of the unified Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Michigan, actively shapes the state's business landscape by promoting ethical standards and trust. Following a major 2025 merger, she leads initiatives focused on AI-driven training, consumer protection, and supporting small businesses through educational, data-driven resources. She also discusses what she hoped to get out of the conference that day #DPC26. Key 2025-2026 Activities and Initiatives Statewide Merger Leadership: In April 2025, Frohnapfel took the lead of the combined BBB of Michigan, uniting the Eastern and Western branches to improve efficiency and service across the state, including the Upper Peninsula. AI and Tech Integration: She announced the launch of new AI-driven training sessions to help Michigan businesses stay competitive, with plans for the first-ever BBB AI Summit to be held soon. Focus on Ethics and Security: At the Torch Awards for Ethics, she emphasized that the organization's focus is on building trust in the marketplace and protecting consumers from financial fraud. Small Business Support: She spoke at the 11th Annual Small Business Workshop in May 2025, focusing on "Thriving through Uncertainty" and providing actionable insights for business owners. Background Before joining the BBB in 2021, Frohnapfel had a 25-year career in the financial services sector, including serving as CEO of a multi-branch credit union in West Michigan.