A Western Michigan University graduate student won $100,000 in a Kalamazoo pitch competition for his AI-powered medical language platform, highlighting the region’s growing support for student entrepreneurs and high-impact startups.
A new shop devoted to vintage clothing has opened in downtown Constantine, where owner Stacy Synstelien is turning decades of collecting and retail therapy into a small-town business rooted in history.
Community members will gather March 28 at Urban Exposure Garden for the Kalamazoo Cookie Exchange, a Women’s History Month event celebrating baking, neighborhood connection and three Black women-owned local businesses.
The Reach Forward Conversations Event brought local entrepreneurs, product sellers, and buyers together to spark connections that could lead to contracts, growth opportunities, and stronger small-business networks in the Kalamazoo area.
In Battle Creek, Felicia Jaramillo opened DelectAble Treats and Sweets to create jobs for people with disabilities, inspired by her sons and her own recovery journey.
Thanks to Kalamazoo Forward Ventures, a wave of help is coming to address a potential 'Silver Tsunami' of mostly Baby Boomer-owned small business closures in Kalamazoo — the program aims to help preserve jobs, wealth, and legacy.
Precision Syrups, a St. Joseph–based specialty food startup, has rapidly expanded from a home-based cottage business to commercial production, tripling sales by targeting craft beverage and culinary markets.
The Black Entrepreneurship Training Academy will launch its sixth annual spring session in Kalamazoo, offering cohort-based business training, mentorship, and grant funding to support the growth of BIPOC entrepreneurs.
Rooted in Louisiana tradition, Aubrey and Candyce Stewart have transformed authentic Cajun flavors into a growing Battle Creek business.
Stanwood Crossings is a new community where the homes are for sale — but the land is owned by the Portage Community Land Trust.
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