By Kayla Sosa A student in the Michigan Veteran Entrepreneur Lab program is building up his side business in custom knife making. Shawn Moulenbelt, 52, might be part of the weekly entrepreneurship program at Grand Valley State University, but he’s…
Category: grand rapids
Maceda’s Events: The husband and wife duo making events happen across West Michigan
By Kayla Sosa From decorations, to catering, to choreography and planning, husband and wife Jose Juarez-Aguilar and Diana Maceda do it all. Maceda’s Events started unofficially through word of mouth. Maceda’s friends and family members noticed over the years how…
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It starts with food: How a new meal prep company is launching a positive mindset movement
By Kayla Sosa One small, upcoming business is trying to spread the message that a healthier mindset, starts with what you put into your body. Mindset Meals is a new, meal-prep service aimed to provide healthy, already cooked meals to…
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Veronica Kirin: Entrepreneur, advocate, mentor and more
A Q&A with a GVSU alum who is making her mark in the business world and beyond By Kayla Sosa Veronica Kirin is an international entrepreneur coach and hosts an online community called the Audacious Entrepreneur Sandbox. She is…
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Upcoming expo to highlight small businesses in Grand Rapids
By Kayla Sosa The City of Grand Rapids and Downtown Grand Rapids Inc are partnering to host an expo for small businesses in the city. Community members are encouraged to attend to meet local small business owners, who will…
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Experienced mentor helps nonprofits “Ascend to Greatness”
By Kayla Sosa Monique Salinas is no stranger to the nonprofit world; she has founded two nonprofits in the course of two decades. For 16 years, she directed Girls Choral Academy - a choir program for girls - and then…
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Rende Progress Capital: Creating equity in lending and investments
By Kayla Sosa A community organization in Grand Rapids is making it easier for entrepreneurs and small business owners who can’t obtain a bank loan through racial bias and inequity, to acquire funds. Rende Progress Capital was co-founded by Eric…
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Teams place, win cash prizes in teen entrepreneur competition
By Kayla Sosa Three teams of teen entrepreneurs took home cash prizes in the final pitch and showcase for the TESA program. TESA, the Teen Entrepreneur Summer Academy is hosted by the Grand Valley State University Center for Entrepreneurship…
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Born Blessing: Supporting women during their path to and through motherhood
By Kayla Sosa A local woman is one of the recent winners of the Michigan Veteran Entrepreneur-Lab Showcase and Pitch Competition at Grand Valley State University. Ellie Dragstra wanted to become a doula - or maternal support practitioner - for…
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Shining light on inner and outer beauty with Life’s Beautiful Diamonds
By Kayla Sosa In an effort to spread self love to all women, Shawnda Louise Michael Jackson has started a transformational coaching service called Life’s Beautiful Diamonds. “I transform women’s lives from coal to beautiful diamonds,” Jackson said. “Those who…
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