Photo courtesy of Central Michigan University Research Corporation Facebook page.
The Great Lakes Bay Small Business Hub is one of 27 regional grant recipients funded by the Small Business Support Hub (SBSH) program, a pivotal initiative supported by Governor Gretchen Whitmer in partnership with the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC). was selected as one of the .
“Bringing together organizations that provide critical resources such as networking, events, programs, and dedicated space, this initiative aims to create a dynamic ecosystem for small businesses to grow,” said Central Michigan University. said Erin Strang, president and CEO of CMURC. . “The true strength of the Great Lakes Bay Small Business Hub lies in the collective efforts of all partners working together to empower local entrepreneurs and help them succeed.”
The hub's goal is to enhance existing resources and provide programs and services to the community through collaboration with local chambers of commerce, community and economic development organizations, and entrepreneurial small business service organizations. Regional organizations include CMURC, MEDC, Small Business Development Center (SBDC), and Great Lakes Bay Regional Alliance. Bay County includes the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce and Bay Future. Midland County is represented by Midland Business Alliance. Isabella County includes the Middle Michigan Development Corporation (MMDC) and the Mount Pleasant Chamber of Commerce. Saginaw County is home to the Saginaw County Chamber of Commerce and Saginaw Future.
“We are excited to partner with CMURC to provide consulting and support services to local small business owners. We have a wealth of knowledge and experience to help them realize their dreams. ,” said Chris Viau, Lake Huron Area SBDC Regional Director.
“Michigan is building an entrepreneurial ecosystem by supporting the small businesses that drive our economy, as well as trusted partners like CMURC who serve small businesses and partners across Michigan. We are committed to strengthening our capabilities,” said Amy Rencher, MEDC Senior Vice President of Small Business Services. “By leveraging federal funding, the Great Lakes Bay Small Business Support Hub will help expand and improve resources across the region while increasing national visibility of the strength of our entrepreneurial community.”
The hub will provide space for small businesses in the Great Lakes Bay region, offering flexible office and meeting space in Bay City, Midland, Saginaw and the soon-to-be-reopened Mount Pleasant facility. Entrepreneurs have a unique opportunity to sell their products through the SVRC Marketplace or Harrison City Market, which is designed to provide expanded business services to Clare, Gladwin, and Osceola counties. Masu. The partnership will revitalize the commercial kitchen and business incubator space with advanced technology, talent support and strategic marketing efforts. CMURC invites the community to the grand opening of its Mount Pleasant facility on June 26, 2024.
“This strategic collaboration of the Small Business Support Hub Program marks a transformative moment for our region,” said Justin Kavanaugh, City Manager and City Clerk of Harrison, Michigan. “With the inclusion and expansion of Harrison Market, this strategic partnership will expand its impact and create a dynamic environment for entrepreneurial growth and community flourishing.”
For more information about the Great Lakes Bay Small Business Hub program and its commitment to local businesses, visit cmurc.com/glbsbh.
