The People and Companies shaping what’s next
This is a weekly series highlighting entrepreneurs, small businesses, and the ideas driving Southwest Michigan forward. Through original reporting, Second Wave shares stories of local founders, growing companies, and the organizations supporting entrepreneurship across Kalamazoo, Calhoun, Berrien, St. Joseph, Van Buren, Cass, and Barry counties. The series aims to raise awareness of the region’s entrepreneurial energy, strengthen community connection to local businesses, and spotlight what’s next for Southwest Michigan’s economy. Support for the series is provided by Southwest Michigan First.
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.
From cold brew to dog water, Kalamazoo's Good Trade Depot, a small batch canning company, is redefining contract manufacturing.
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