Our Story

Venture North was borne during the 2008 recession.   We confirmed what we already knew:  people running businesses in areas of economic distress needed our help the most.  In 2017, we became a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), formalizing our commitment to help those businesses.  Today, 60 percent of the area we serve is in that category.  

In 2020-21, during the onset of the Covid pandemic, we pivoted with partners to secure $1.0 million in donations to award 300 “urgent needs” grants, helping businesses survive in the ten-county area.  We emerged from the pandemic stronger: helping more clients with an expanded, highly trained team, providing service in all ten counties.

The measure of Venture North is reflected by the success of our clients and the willingness of agencies and philanthropy to support our work.  Our history is their story.  Complete our intake form and let’s talk – about you, your business, your priorities – and how we can help.   Let’s work together to create even more great stories in northwest Michigan!

lower Northwest Michigan counties map

Let’s talk if you own a business in our neighborhood - any of the ten counties we’re proud to serve.

We want to learn about you, your business and community.  

You’ll be talking with the stars of the Venture North team, all living in northwest Michigan.