Disruption Calhoun County: Pandemic generation comes of age in a time of masks and anxiety

After overcoming a life-threatening illness, Battle Creek entrepreneur Nicole Hart launched New Eden Microgreens with support from local business organizations, bringing fresh, health-focused products to stores and restaurants across Southwest Michigan.

The Village Network of Battle Creek is dissolving after helping direct more than $1.25 million to BIPOC-led organizations and entrepreneurs, saying its mission to build community-led economic justice networks has successfully created lasting local momentum.

A new six-week Storefront Growth Lab in downtown Kalamazoo will help Southwest Michigan retail, restaurant, and service business owners improve profits, marketing, operations, and long-term growth through hands-on coaching and peer collaboration.