Small Business

The little vintage district that could

Nestled in the center of Grand Rapids, a group of fashion-oriented creatives is subtly turning South Division Avenue into a lively cultural hub rooted in sustainability, community, and shared goals.

Latest in Small Business
Same dog, new tricks: Yesterdog’s legacy continues in Grand Rapids

What happens when one of Grand Rapids’ most beloved restaurants changes ownership after almost 50 years? At Yesterdog, the answer isn’t about reinvention—it’s a genuine dedication to preserving the heart of a neighborhood business.

The Hispanic Center of Western Michigan (HCWM) has acquired the Tri-Cities Puentes Initiative.
Hispanic Center expands Lakeshore reach through Tri-Cities Puentes acquisition

A merger brings vital programs under one roof, strengthening support and cultural connections for Hispanic communities across West Michigan.

During a recent Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce event, Comcast kicked off its latest round of RISE grants and support packages to help 100 Grand Rapids and Muskegon small businesses grow, innovate, and thrive.
Comcast RISE to provide 100 grants to GR, Muskegon small businesses

Comcast RISE offers grants and support packages to help 100 Grand Rapids and Muskegon small businesses grow, innovate, and thrive.

Alan Hartline wears a Local Flavor t-shirt at Kingma's Market entrance.
From Detroit to Grand Rapids: How a community-focused grocer flourishes despite challenges

During these times of increasing grocery prices and the strong presence of big-box stores, Kingma’s Market nestled in Grand Rapids’ Cheshire neighborhood wonderfully showcases how local flavor, community spirit, and thoughtful leadership can truly transform what a neighborhood grocery store can be.  

Wangler sees events like South by Southwest, which she recently attended, and Tech Week as important stages to share the West Michigan tech story.
Women in tech find community in Grand Rapids

In Grand Rapids, women in tech are building supportive spaces like Go Beyond and Coffee Circles to connect, grow, and lead together.

Timothy Murphy's Audio Radar enhances gaming experiences for deaf and hard-of-hearing players.
Gaming entrepreneur rediscovered his creative skills at KCAD

Timothy Murphy’s journey from Navy radar technician to gaming entrepreneur relied on the education, experience, and connections he gained at KCAD.

U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids, smiles as she checks out at a local shop.
PUBLISHED TOGETHER: Small business magic is where custom experiences meet local impact

During the holiday season, Grand Rapids transforms into something straight out of a Hallmark movie — complete with real snow and better shopping. Kim Bode, founder and owner of 8THIRTYFOUR, describes her magical shopping trip with Rep. Hillary Scholten.

Uncle Goose owner Pete Bultman believes their blocks promote critical thinking skills that last a lifetime.
Uncle Goose: Building a legacy of play, imagination and sustainability

Rooted in Grand Rapids' manufacturing legacy, Uncle Goose crafts handcrafted wooden toys that inspire imaginative play, promote learning, and prioritize sustainability.  

Tech Week events will take place all over Grand Rapids.
Tech Week Grand Rapids: How a bold idea sparked a regionwide celebration of innovation

What began as a four-day pilot project with less than two months of preparation has transformed into Tech Week Grand Rapids, a major event driving the region’s tech growth. The third iteration begins next month.  

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