Entrepreneurship

Mari Romero

Community foundations, nonprofit lenders blending strengths

A growing partnership model between community foundations and nonprofit lenders is expanding investment power in Michigan's small businesses.

Latest in Entrepreneurship
A wild mushroom on the North Country Trail. Photo: Chuck Marshall
Myconaut: Voyagers in the uncharted world of Fungi

A pair of wild mushroom foragers have transformed their passion into a startup in Marquette. Myconaut not only provides tasty mushrooms to local eateries but also is working to develop technologies that use fungi for toxin remediation. 

Negaunee native Rachael Grossman is captivating diners with her Italian cuisine at Strega Nonna.
Buono! Strega Nonna’s Italian fare enchants diners in Negaunee

With a love for snow and affection for her hometown, 34-year-old Rachael Grossman returned to her roots to open an Italian bar -- Strega Nonna. She's winning over foodies and visitors with her authentic cuisine and also creating a destination in Negaunee's downtown.

Iron Mountain couple creates their own path

An entrepreneurial Iron Mountain couple has successfully created a pair of distinct businesses in the city's downtown. Their efforts have added vibrancy to the community and enabled them to pursue their own dreams. 

Easing the EMS staffing shortage in the U.P. and Michigan

The Michigan Center for Rural Health offers scholarships to train prospective emergency medical service paramedics across the state. The shortage of EMS staffing is especially acute in areas of rural Michigan. 

A number of financial incentives for post-secondary education help those interested in an early education career.
Michigan looks to create a better career path for early childhood educators

Improved career pathways, state incentives, and improved wages are essential to recruiting and retaining the early education workforce needed for the PreK for All roll-out.

Northern Lakes Community Mental Health Authority Grayling location.
Michigan’s rural CMHs work hard on improving access to mental health resources

MI Mental Health spoke with Northern Lakes Community Mental Health Chief Operations Officer Joanie Blamer and Sanilac County Community Mental Health CEO Wil Morris on addressing the mental health and wellness needs of rural communities.   

Housed in a former one-room schoolhouse, Pine Creek Woodworking aims to help anyone in the Dickinson area looking to learn woodworking skills.
Building skills, building community

A one-room schoolhouse in Dickinson County has been converted into a community woodworking space. The nonprofit Pine Creek Woodworking aims to help anyone in the area learn woodworking skills and gain knowledge about the craft. 

In Marquette, a coffee shop to ‘enjoy the small moments in our lives’

Provisions MQT isn't just about coffee. It's about space for the community. Since its opening, Provisions MQT has hosted yoga and cooking classes, offering a place for like-minded individuals to gather and sometimes collaborate.   

The corporate offices of FHLBank Indianapolis.
FHLBank Indianapolis grant programs help Native American families in Michigan

The Lake Superior Community Development Corporation exists to increase the assets and self-sufficiency of assets of Native American families in Michigan. Through homeownership grants, home repair grants, and entrepreneurship opportunities, the nonprofit has found a fruitful partner in FHLBank Indianapolis, participating in grant programs to further its important mission.   

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