Known for her strong business sense, legislative strategy development, and regulatory and lobbying successes, Nicole G. Nystrom is the founder and president of Midwest Strategy Group. She previously served as Director of the Government Policy Department for Dykema Gossett PLLC. In this position, Nicole lobbied before the Michigan Legislature, regulatory agencies, and the Executive Office specializing in issues involving appropriations, procurement, economic development, energy, financial services, gaming, health policy, and tax.

Before joining Dykema Gossett, Nicole was employed by the Michigan Economic Development Corporation as the Legislative Liaison to the Governor and then held the position of Vice President of Legislative Relations. Nicole worked with the Governor’s office and the legislature on the passage of economic development, community development, and travel/tourism initiatives, as well as various business tax issues. Nicole worked hand in hand with prominent businesses throughout the State building coalitions to support and successfully pass legislative priorities.

Nicole has held the positions of Director of Legislative Affairs, Director of Community and Constituent Relations, and Treasurer while working for the Assistant Senate Majority Leader and Senate Majority Floor Leader. She also served as Clerk for the Senate Committees on Financial Services and Gaming and Casino Oversight.

Nicole received her bachelor’s degree in Political Theory and Democratic Law from James Madison Honors College at Michigan State University and has completed Strategic Planning and Implementation Courses from the University of Michigan Business School.

Nicole is a frequent presenter to many political programs and serves on the boards of various professional organizations, some of which include the National League of Women Lobbyists, Michigan Political Leadership Program and the Children’s Trust Fund. She is a former board member of the Michigan State University’s Spartan Child Development Center.

Nicole has recently been honored by Crain’s Detroit Business 50 Names to Know in Lobbying. She has also been listed multiple times as one of Lansing’s most effective lobbyists by MIRS News Survey.