By Lauren Fay Carlson

A diverse labor force: The challenges facing minority contractors, and the tools needed to succeed

With some industries that are built on word-of-mouth recommendations and connections in the field, like construction, how can minority workers and business owners get ahead? Here in Grand Rapids, contractors and their affiliates are beginning to see the light, working to diversify the voices and faces in the industry, and equipping them with the tools (pun intended) needed to succeed in construction.

Michigan native publishes YA beach novel

GR Poet Laureate & KFG Embark on National Poetry Tour

GVSU announces new medical building, warm design

Transforming a Celiac diagnosis into a top-selling snack: The Gluten Free Bar Story

Developing a snack bar designed to serve those who have Celiac's Disease or those who are simply gluten-intolerant, Elliott and his brother, Marshall, developed their tasty snack almost a decade ago. Now selling the Gluten Free Bar and other associated products in over 9,000 stores across the country, in Canada, and in Europe, the Rader brothers have transformed a simple idea into a successful B-corp, one bar at a time.

GRPS Superintendent celebrates success in annual State of the Schools address

GRPS Superintendent Teresa Weatherall Neal delivered the fifth annual State of the Schools Address on Thursday, May 4. Weatherall Neal spelled out the myriad of successes—both big and small—that the school district has experienced since she took the helm in 2012. Most of all, she encouraged community support. "Stay with me. Stay with the district. Stay with these children," she said.

How the Grand Rapids Children’s Museum became one of Michigan’s best spaces for kids with autism

The Grand Rapids Children's Museum has, for years, made sure that the space is a safe and friendly place for all children, including those who are on the autism spectrum. Thanks to its autism-friendly programming, the museum has now been named one of the best places in all of Michigan for children on the spectrum.

Potatoes, pop and Jiffy corn muffins: Michigan’s agri-businesses thrive and reinvest

Agriculture, food processors, and related businesses employ 923,000 Michiganders — 22 percent of the state’s workforce. March is the month the state sets aside to thanks its farmers and recognize the industry’s many career opportunities.

From successful entrepreneurs, words of wisdom on networking: ‘Just do it’

When starting your own business, going to events and meeting people might be low on the list of things to do. It shouldn't be. Networking is a key part to building a successful business, and entrepreneurs who don't do it are missing out.

Down with food deserts: Incoming stores, co-op & others are changing how we buy groceries in GR

For Grand Rapidians dreaming of being able to go grocery shopping near their home, the landscape is shifting. Incoming grocery stores will soon bring big changes to the city, and existing shops are expanding their options to meet the needs of a growing population. Plus, a co-op is in the works and aims to bring affordable and healthy goods to a food desert.