Entrepreneurship

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.

Making it in GR: A look back at the article that urged Grand Rapids to move forward

The 2015 Forbes article listing Grand Rapids as the second worst city in the nation where African-Americans were struggling sparked many conversations. Looking beyond the African-American community and observing the minority-owned business climate as a whole, one can find both challenges and opportunities. Organizations such as Local First, One World Diversity, and Start Garden are rising to the challenge and providing resources and programming to help promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in the small business community.

Financing your dream: Entrepreneurs tap local and diverse resources

Securing financing for a small businesses can be a huge challenge, especially for new entrepreneurs. There are several opportunities available to assist entrepreneurs in the area including: microloans, SBA lending and pitch competitions. Additionally, here are some recommendations for staying motivated and being prepared to request funds.

UIX: BL²END offers diversity, inclusion and community for entrepreneurs

At BL²END (Business Leaders Linked to Encourage New Directions), young professionals of color connect with others, develop their professional skills, and add value to the community.

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.

How coworking spaces are growing an entrepreneurial community in Grand Rapids

Coworking spaces in Grand Rapids are creating a place for entrepreneurs, creatives and the community to connect and collaborate. Venues like The Factory, The Space at Start Garden, Left Right Boom Collaborative, and Urban LINC offer more than just a spot to work. They are providing members with the support and educational opportunities needed in a city that aims to be synonymous with entrepreneurship.

Grand Rapids’ first-ever African American-owned cosmetology school celebrates opening

‘Esto demuestra que todo es posible’: Como Linc Up Soul Food Café esta desarrollando un cambio

Así como la comunidad sureste de Grand Rapids se enfrenta a los cambios ocurriendo en el vecindario, la gerente de Linc Up Soul Food Café, Kasandra Lott espera que su restaurante inspire apoyo hacia negocios perteneciendo a personas de grupos minoritarios raciales y de esta manera sirva como una luz de esperanza para la comunidad.

How the Muskegon Innovation Hub is driving entrepreneurship & transforming the business landscape

As entrepreneurs increasingly turn to Muskegon, the business community is transforming and growing. Behind this change is a major player that's working to ensure residents with a dream of starting their own company are encouraged and supported: the Muskegon Innovation Hub.