By Kayla Sosa Starting a business was not something Maliesha Pullano always intended to do, but was something that kind of fell into place at the right time. In 2014, Pullano was unemployed and looking for an opportunity. She soon…
By Kayla Sosa We Are LIT is more than just a book shop, it’s a movement within the community to bring more diverse books and reading to everyone. The “shop” is actually online, and offers new, multicultural selections to readers…
By Kayla Sosa Five entrepreneurs with military background or connection took home prize money at the first showcase and final pitch competition for the Michigan Veteran Entrepreneur Lab. Produced through the Grand Valley State University Center for Entrepreneurship and…
Read More Five entrepreneurs win prize money at first MVE Pitch Competition
By Kayla Sosa Two women are heading up a consulting group that will educate employers on not just how to hire veterans, but how to retain them. Henrietta Hadley said many workplaces say they are “veteran friendly” but once they…
Read More Spotlight: WINC advocates for women veterans post-military life
By Kayla Sosa In September, owners of Malamiah Juice Bar and Royal Jelly Foods participated in the Grand Rapids Business Boot Camp Pitch Competition. This endeavor is lead by Michigan Good Food Fund, a “thirty million dollar loan fund created to provide…
By Kayla Sosa A community survey in Grand Rapids showed that residents feel there is a need for a free, non-judgmental space for the LGBTQ community. After learning this, Audrey Hutchinson created Liberate GR – a community center for those…
Amy Engelsman - Proos Manufacturing As Amy Engelsman transitioned into the her role as CEO of Proos Manufacturing, she faced significant challenges: securing company financials; obtaining funding for purchase of the business; proving her leadership capacity to the lender; earning…
