Entrepreneurship

Leading by example: How a local procurement company promotes supply chain diversity

“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.

Latest in Entrepreneurship
Judy Welch, Executive Director West Michigan of Michigan Women Forward
Michigan Women Forward’s Resilience Fund helps small businesses regain financial footing

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.

How tattoo parlors are reopening in West Michigan

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.

How Grand Rapids small business owners reopen amid racial strife and COVID-19

For Grand Rapids entrepreneurs, racial inequality, social unrest, and COVID-19 are playing a role in their efforts to reopen, to stay positive, and to support their communities. Three entrepreneurs explore staying grounded and thinking differently during turbulent times.

Local training program prepares refugee childcare providers for economic resiliency, independence

What started as a small business incubator to support the refugee community in West Michigan has become a lifeline for childcare providers and parents during COVID-19.

Veteran bike mechanic has Common Bond with cyclists

Bob Hammond has launched his dream business, Common Bond Mobile Bike Shop, which serves bicyclists anywhere throughout the Greater Grand Rapids area.

SpartanNash partners with local restaurants to reach customers at the grocery store

Launching on April 23, the Restaurant Meals to Go program offers familiar, pre-prepared menu items from local restaurants in 25 participating SpartanNash grocery stores.

Published Together: The benefits of flowers for Michiganders’ quality of life

CEO of Eastern Floral and Board Member of the West Michigan Asian American Association Bing Goei explores the benefits of flowers for quality of life, as well as his plans for providing this resource during COVID-19 shutdowns.

Kathleen Lesher is the owner of the Uptown Gallery & Frame Shop.
Small businesses remain integral to community amid crisis

Longtime shop owner Kathleen Leshner offers ideas on how we can support these "nonessential" businesses that are the heart and soul of what makes our communities unique.

Published together: We are not alone; a postcard from the dark side of the moon

Rick Muschiana founder and co-owner of The Søvengård, express solidarity for his fellow food, beverage, and hospitality entrepreneurs during the COVID-19 shutdown, exploring the impact on the now and his optimism for the future.

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