Entrepreneurship

Kalamazoo Cookie Exchange to celebrate Women’s History Month and support Black women-owned businesses

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.

Latest in Entrepreneurship
Collaborative collisions: Entrepreneurs ‘Reach Forward’ to find new opportunities and connections in Kalamazoo

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.

A sweet solution to a serious employment gap: DelectAble Treats and Sweets emphasizes Able

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.

Tsunami Lab to build a new generation of owners before Kalamazoo businesses wash away

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.

Think pancakes? Think again: Precision Syrups expands Michigan’s taste for craft flavor

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.

Kalamazoo BETA program empowers Black entrepreneurs with training and capital

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.

Battle Creek couple season for success at Stewie’s Cajun Foods

Rooted in Louisiana tradition, Aubrey and Candyce Stewart have transformed authentic Cajun flavors into a growing Battle Creek business.

A new housing development in Portage hopes to create long-term affordable housing

Stanwood Crossings is a new community where the homes are for sale — but the land is owned by the Portage Community Land Trust.

From bouquets to carnation creatures: Plumeria celebrates 10 years with bold expansion

Thinking outside the bouquet, Elisha Mayes' Plumeria Botanical Boutique in Battle Creek celebrates 10 years and a bold new chapter.

From seed to storefront: Battle Creek’s first food co-op to open in September

Uproot Market and Eatery, Battle Creek’s first community-owned food co-op, is set to open this fall, aiming to provide fresh, local, and affordable food to underserved neighborhoods while fostering community ownership and food equity.

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