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Sault Tribe Thrive Launches New Grant Program at Grand Opening of Business Center
Small business proponents from across the Upper Peninsula came together this month to support Sault Tribe Thrive, a minority business development agency, as they launched a new grant program at the grand opening of their new business center. The agency, which provides business support to Sault Tribe citizen-owned businesses and business owners in seven counties in the Upper Peninsula, opened the new business center to expand access to resources.
The ribbon cutting ceremony, held in partnership with the Sault Ste. Marie Area Chamber of Commerce, celebrated the opening of the Sault Tribe Business Center located at 531 Ashmun St. in Sault Ste. Marie. The center was made possible by a grant from the Michigan Economic Development Corporation, which aims to support economic success and provide resources for new and existing businesses.
The new center offers amenities and resources for entrepreneurs looking to start or expand their businesses, including access to over $400,000 in direct grants ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. These grants are designated for businesses in the Eastern Upper Peninsula and are part of a larger effort to distribute $75 million of excess COVID funds to small businesses and non-tech companies in Michigan.
Paul Guindon, director of business development for Sault Tribe Thrive, expressed excitement about the opportunities the new business center and grant program will provide for small businesses in the region. The goal is to allocate 20 percent of the funds to minority businesses, including Sault Tribe-owned businesses, to ensure they have the opportunity to apply for support.
The grand opening event saw over 55 attendees for the ribbon cutting and 35 participants for the grant portion of the program. Community Ambassadors, members of the Chippewa County Chamber of Commerce, and various partners supporting the initiative were also in attendance. The event highlighted the collaboration between local businesses, tribal leaders, and community representatives to advance economic success in the region.
Overall, the launch of the new grant program and business center signifies a step forward in supporting small businesses and fostering economic growth in the Upper Peninsula. With the support of partners and dedicated individuals, Sault Tribe Thrive is committed to helping businesses thrive and succeed in the region.
