Navigate the West Michigan business ecosystem like a pro. Learn how to take advantage of everything our region has to offer and gain the guidance, resources, and opportunities your business needs to thrive. Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a budding business owner, make sure you check out the business resources below.
Government and Economic Development Organizations
- City of Grand Rapids Economic Development Office provides tools and resources for business growth in Grand Rapids.
- Michigan Economic Development Corporation drives economic growth and supports Michigan businesses with comprehensive services.
Funding and Financial Services
- Great Lakes Commercial Finance offers capital for small businesses through SBA 504 Loan Program.
- Grow is a community development institution providing loans and education to underrepresented entrepreneurs.
- Northern Initiatives provides loans and business services for small business growth.
- Opportunity Resource Fund provides loans for affordable housing, small businesses, and community improvement.
- Rende Progress Capital offers equitable loans and support to Excluded Entrepreneurs of Color.
- SBA Michigan District Office supports small businesses with loans, training, and contracting opportunities.
Non-Profit and Community Development
- AQUME Foundation focuses on economic justice and wealth creation for BIPOC communities.
- Downtown Grand Rapids Inc. supports economic and community development in Downtown Grand Rapids.
- Downtown Market Education Foundation supports food entrepreneurs with kitchen space and strategic guidance.
- Family Business Alliance provides resources for family businesses to achieve multi-generational success.
- First Children’s Finance offers financial services and business support to early education businesses.
- Grand Rapids Area Black Businesses empowers Black entrepreneurship and business growth in Grand Rapids.
- Michigan Minority Supplier Development Council facilitates growth and opportunities for minority-owned businesses.
- Michigan Women Forward expands economic opportunities for women and girls in Michigan.
- People First Economy supports businesses in social and environmental justice initiatives.
Education, Mentorship and Business Growth
- Grand Rapids Chamber provides resources for business growth and community leadership.
- Grand Rapids Public Library offers business resources and research tools.
- GVSU Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation provides resources and mentorship for entrepreneurs.
- GVSU Family Owned Business Institute supports family-owned businesses with education and advocacy.
- Hello West Michigan promotes the region and connects newcomers with resources and employers.
- Kent District Library provides business support and community resources.
- Michigan Small Business Development Center offers no-cost consulting and training to support Michigan businesses.
- SCORE Grand Rapids offers free small business mentoring and education.
- SpringGR provides training and support for entrepreneurs at different stages.
- Start Garden empowers startups with funding and resources for growth.
- The Employers’ Association offers HR solutions and organizational development services.
- West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce advocates for Hispanic-owned businesses and economic development.
- West Michigan Works! offers workforce solutions to meet regional talent needs.
- Van Andel Global Trade Center supports global business growth with research and training.