Entrepreneurship

An adventure hub rocks Norway (not the country)

A trio of friends renovated a century-old farmhouse in Norway as the staging area for a host of outdoor adventures, taking advantage of the many recreational opportunities in the central U.P. 

Latest in Entrepreneurship
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.   

The entrance to Mission Point Resort, located on the eastern end of Mackinac Island.
Stewards of a Mackinac Island resort

The Ware family purchased Mission Point Resort in 2014 and since then, the family has been busy renovating and improving the historic property. The latest renovation included a redesign of the main lobby, housed in a tipi-like structure.

Nisu Bakery & Cafe brings Finnish flair to Hancock

The owner of Nisu Bakery & Cafe in Hancock has a long connection to the U.P., even though she only recently moved to the region. Proud of her heritage, her shop will sell Finnish and Swedish baked goods and gifts. 

Co-Owner Myles Moncalieri stands in front of various devices used to break stuff in Marquette’s newest attraction The Rampage Room.
U.P.’s first “rage room” a smashing success

“They’re kind of like what escape rooms use to be. Just because it’s new, doesn’t mean it’s wrong. It’s just a great time to have fun and break stuff,” said Myles Moncalieri, one of the creators behind The Rampage Room in Marquette.

The former elementary school is the home of Advanced Blending Solutions. The school underwent a $2.5 million renovation.
Back to school: Entrepreneur turns his former elementary school into his company offices

Advanced Blending Solutions in Wallace has a unique ‘true north’ origin story. In a serendipitous move back to his hometown, Mike Rasner purchased his former elementary school and transformed the building into his company’s official headquarters and manufacturing operations.

Austin Gongos and Nathan Ackerman, co-founders of Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear in Hancock.
FHLBank grants help elevate local small businesses to next level

FHLBank Indianapolis believes in the power of lifting up small businesses, and the big impact it has on their communities. Four businesses in the U.P. were awarded $74,326 in Elevate grant funding. We speak with two of them, and how the funds are allowing them to level up their businesses.   

Raising the hotel bar in the U.P.

Housed in an historic bank building in downtown Houghton, The Vault is a boutique hotel with world-class amenities. The owners, Jonathan and Jennifer Julien, create a memorable and welcoming experience in a one-of-a-kind hotel in the U.P. 

Our Partners

Enbridge logo

Common Ground Is Brewing

Support local stories and receive our signature roast straight to your door when you join at the Standard level (or above).

Drink Better, Read Local

Close the CTA

Don't miss out!

Everything Upper Michigan, in your inbox every week.

Close the CTA

Already a subscriber? Enter your email to hide this popup in the future.