Connections and Referrals
Need help navigating Northwest Michigan’s ever-growing entrepreneurial ecosystem?
While we’re lucky to have so many great partner organizations providing programs and support to small businesses, it can be tricky (and time consuming) to navigate the options. We’re working on compiling a comprehensive list that you can bookmark and refer to often, or you can always contact us and we can begin to connect you with the places that fit your needs today.
Here are some to get you started:
SMALL BUSINESS INCENTIVE PROGRAMS & GRANT OPPORTUNITIES
Great Lakes Energy: Energy Wise Program (Commercial & Industrial)
Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD): Grants & Funding Opportunities
USDA Rural Development: Value Added Producer Grants (Electronic applications due April 11, 2024, Paper applications due April 16, 2024)
BUSINESS SUPPORT
Areas of expertise: business coaching (start-ups, tech tech start-ups), training, coworking space
Areas of expertise: financial support and networking opportunities for and with female entrepreneurs
Areas of expertise: coworking space
Areas of expertise: business coaching (start-ups, existing), food & ag related businesses, nutritional labeling, training, etc.
Northwest Michigan Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC)
Area of expertise: government contracting
Areas of expertise: business coaching (start-ups, existing), training
Areas of expertise: business coaching (start-ups, existing), training
Small Business Development Center
Areas of expertise: business consulting(start-ups, existing, growth), training, market research, etc.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATIONS
Alliance for Economic Success - serving Wexford and Missaukee Counties
Networks Northwest - serving Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Manistee, Missaukee, and Wexford Counties
Northern Lakes Economic Alliance - serving Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan, and Emmet Counties
Traverse Connect - serving Benzie, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, and Leelanau Counties
And so many more!
From Chambers’ of Commerce to credit unions; from philanthropies to accounting firms…
The best way to begin? Click the link below and we’ll talk about the best fit for you.