Retail

The Arts Marketplace (AMP) and Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. (DGRI) are launching the Downtown Retail Incubator Program.

Grand Rapids retail incubator helps entrepreneurs turn ideas into stores

New downtown retail incubator offers space, training, and mentorship to help undercapitalized entrepreneurs launch lasting storefronts in Grand Rapids’ core.  

Latest in Retail
Brandon Copeland of Grammotones
One beat at a time: Brandon Copeland and the creative heart of community-building

Brandon Copeland has dedicated 20 years to demonstrating how artists can inspire community, culture, and the future of Grand Rapids, from DIY hip-hop shows to his live-work storefront, Grammotones.

City of GR's Parks Director David Marquordt (in red shorts) enjoys meeting folks in our parks.
Adapting outdoor recreation in West Michigan amidst shifting seasons and climate change

As winters become shorter and seasons increasingly erratic, outdoor recreation in West Michigan is experiencing significant changes. Local leaders are exploring innovative methods to maintain year-round connections to nature through the revitalization of ski resorts, the enhancement of trail systems, and the introduction of new warm-weather activities.

Matt Acker, co-owner of Pavement Ends, is all smiles at the start of the race.
Gravel, growth, and the future of Barry-Roubaix in rural Michigan

In Hastings, the Barry-Roubaix gravel cycling race has become the largest event of its type in the world, driving economic revitalization, fostering community connections, and promoting an inclusive trail culture in a rural town that attracts thousands of visitors every spring.  

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.  

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.

Daryl Reece is no stranger to hard work, but the entrepreneur says he has also been blessed to be around good people who treat him well. His line of vodka, Stock Da Bar, debuted in 2019.
Daryl Reece: Built on hard work, community support, and faith

“I don’t come from a business background — a money management background — I come from a hardworking background,” Daryl Reece says, adding that his parents instilled in him the value of hard work and saving money. After years of hard work and a lot of support from key friends and family, Reece has partnered with Lansing-based Michigrain Distillery to create his own brand of Stock Da Bar Vodka.

Courtesy Vinyl Alchemy
Vinyl Alchemy elevates the full musical experience

A new record shop has opened in Grand Rapids’ Eastown neighborhood. Located at 1505 Wealthy St. SE, Vinyl Alchemy purveys vinyl, CDs, and art and pop culture collectibles. 

New owners to continue Grand Rapids’ LaFontsee Galleries legacy

New owners plan to continue legacy of Grand Rapids’ LaFontsee Galleries.

Marisela Sierra won the 2022 Start Garden 100 pitch competition with her Navarro’s Mexican Takeout.
Start Garden win lifts third-generation restaurateur’s dreams to next level

After winning the 2022 Start Garden 100 pitch competition, third-generation Muskegon Heights restaurateur Marisela Sierra is ready to get Navarro’s Mexican Takeout’s stone-ground tamales into the freezers of local retailers.

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