Manager of Economic Programming
Tri-County Regional Planning Commission
Samantha Fountain is experienced in all facets of economic and community development.
As manager of economic programming for Tri-County Regional Planning Commission, Samantha Fountain helps municipalities and organizations throughout the greater Lansing area collaborate on federal opportunities and helps facilitate regional projects. Prior to her current role, she served as the economic and community development director for Mundy Township and the City of Swartz Creek via a shared services agreement; economic development director and small business specialist for the City of Flint; and a procurement counselor for what is today known as the East Michigan APEX Accelerator.
Her talents include creating and strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems, facilitating business attractions and expansions, new housing developments, and fostering community development opportunities. She is also experienced in writing, administering, and reporting on federal, state, and local grants.
She serves on the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy Steering Committee for Genesee, Shiawassee, and Lapeer counties; Mundy Township Parks & Recreation Advisory Committee; Swartz Creek Park Board Advisory Committee; and the Michigan Economic Developers Association’s Annual Meeting Committee. Fountain formerly served as an elected member of the Swartz Creek City Council and an appointed member of the Swartz Creek Zoning Board of Appeals.
She earned both her bachelor’s and Master of Business Administration from Liberty University. In addition, Fountain achieved designation as a Certified Economic Developer through the International Economic Development Council in 2023.