The Builders Exchange of Michigan, through its Construction Allies in Action initiative, is launching the Strong Foundations Program. This Program seeks to provide underrepresented businesses with the tools, connections and support needed to grow and sustain their organizations.
Local entrepreneur and product developer, Chad Morton, shares what he is working on, how he arrived at this point, and lessons he’s learned along the way related to the current state of the world we live in.
Rapid Reconnect is a new series focused on reengaging with individuals throughout the community to hear what’s happening within their businesses or organizations — what’s going well, any challenges, and new opportunities.
In a Q&A, Ed Garner shares how the award-winning SBDC West Michigan Region focused its attention in 2020 to help businesses survive the economic challenges of the pandemic.
Motu Viget Spirits’ partners have had to modify their operations in the wake of COVID-19. Even with this unexpected hurdle, Motu Viget has been able to secure placements in over 260 locations to date. Moving forward, they hope to see more underrepresented businesses appear at local restaurants and on retail shelves.
Alita Kelly is passionate about food justice, education, and empowerment. Through her recently launched business, the South East Market, she is working to serve her community and improve people’s quality of life, as well as foster new dialogues about the food system.
Amanda Chocko has been elected to a three-year term on the board of the International Business Innovation Association. The Lakeshore Advantage Director of Entrepreneurship said the appointment gives her a bird’s-eye view of incubators’ and entrepreneurship managers’ best practices.
“You have to be able to take a step back and, at the core, understand what you’re trying to do and what you’re trying to accomplish with your career,” says Laura Hopson, president and CEO of EM Services, LLC. She continuously strives to find opportunities for everyone to thrive, particularly fellow minority- and women-owned businesses. She shares details about her decision to relocate the multi-million dollar company to Grand Rapids and her insights on the importance of diversity within the supply chain.
The COVID-19 pandemic has forced many small business owners to grapple with financial uncertainty. In May, the nonprofit Michigan Women Forward launched its $1.5 million Michigan Entrepreneur Resilience Fund to help businesses in the state that are significantly impacted by the pandemic but unable to receive traditional funding.
Monday, June 15, after months of shuttered doors, tattoo and piercing parlors across Michigan will be allowed to reopen ... with restrictions. Those seeking a final sitting for a large tattoo or a piercing or body art for the first time can once again visit these venues for self expression.
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