From Staff Reports
Kronberg
TRAVERSE CITY — Start-up and small businesses across 10 counties in northern Michigan are eligible for $45,000 in grants this fall through a partnership of 20Fathoms and Venture North.
Up to a dozen grants will be available this fall targeting innovative small businesses and scalable start-ups through a new partnership that also includes the Michigan Small Business Development Center (SBDC), the Northern Lakes Economic Alliance and Traverse Connect.
Applications are needed by Oct. 6 and available online at 20Fathoms.org/start where applicants should complete the Startup & Small Business Assistance form and check the box for “Small Business Support Grant.” Applicants will receive a Self-Assessment Form with additional instructions that must be completed and returned within three days. Qualified applicants will be invited to meet with program administrators to learn more about their business.
“We know it’s tough to start and run a business, especially in our area of the state,” said David Kronberg, director of the Small Business Support Hub at 20Fathoms, a regional business incubator and assistance organization based in Traverse City. “We’ve formed this regional collaboration to bring support and unique resources directly to entrepreneurs and small business owners in Northwest Michigan.”
Businesses based in Antrim, Benzie, Charlevoix, Emmet, Grand Traverse, Kalkaska, Leelanau, Manistee, Missaukee and Wexford counties are eligible to apply. Individuals traditionally underrepresented in business ownership including women, BIOPAC, Native Americans, 2SLBGTQIA+ individuals, veterans and persons with disabilities are encourage to apply, officials said. Additional rounds of small business grant are also anticipated in 2025.
In addition to the grants, local entrepreneurs also have access to business consultations and coaching, educational programming and professional service providers including legal and accounting assistance through 20Fathoms and Venture North.
“If you’re an entrepreneur and you’re wondering where to turn for support, we’re here to help,” Kronberg said.
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